Holiday Message from Executive Director Michael Gough
Dear Troopers Family,
As the holiday season fills our homes with warmth and gratitude, I want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible year we’ve shared together and express my deepest thanks to every member of our Troopers family—our donors, members, staff, alumni, volunteers, fans, sponsors and friends.
First and foremost, thank you to our generous donors. Your unwavering support made it possible for us to achieve victory in the 2024 Rocky Mountain Rivalry, a testament to the spirit of excellence and determination that defines the Troopers.
To everyone who attended the inaugural TroopCon 24, thank you for making it such a memorable event. Your enthusiasm brought us closer as a community, and we can’t wait to see you again this June for TroopCon 25, which promises to be even more exciting!
To our remarkable members: your performance this year was nothing short of extraordinary. You brought to life one of the greatest shows in Troopers history, inspiring audiences across America to believe not only in this organization but in each of you.
Our mission is to provide a youth activity with positive educational experiences that promote the growth and development of specific life skills consistent with the Trooper Tradition of Excellence.
None of this would be possible without our incredible sponsors, design team, staff and administration. Your tireless dedication, creativity, and behind-the-scenes efforts are the foundation upon which all of our successes are built. Thank you for your commitment to making the Troopers a place where excellence thrives, and dreams become reality.
Our mission came alive during our recent audition season, where we saw the largest and most talented turnout in our history. Nearly 700 people have auditioned for the corps this year, with a massive callback camp coming up in January. The excitement heading into 2025 is palpable, and we can’t wait to share another groundbreaking season with all of you.
Our Troopers Legacy Corps has been an incredible source of encouragement and positivity this year. Their unwavering support for our “A” corps members has helped foster a culture of belonging and celebration. If you’re looking for a way to stay connected or perform this summer, I encourage you to get involved with the Legacy Corps—you’ll find a family waiting to welcome you with open arms.
I’d also like to extend my gratitude to the Sabers Circle Committee for their leadership of our alumni network. Thank you for continuing to create an inclusive and welcoming environment where former members can find a home and stay connected to the Troopers.
This year, Troopers Bingo celebrated their 30th Anniversary! Thank you to each and every customer and staff member that have made this possible. Over the years, the stability of our organization has been built off of the enthusiasm and loyalty of our Bingo community. With every game you play, you are making a difference in the lives of young people all over the country and beyond.
As we celebrate this season, we also take time to remember those we have lost. This year, we said goodbye to treasured members of the Long Blue Line, including former director Fred Morris and recent Tour Manager Brandon Clemons. We've lost many others along the way. Their contributions and love for this organization and the drum corps activity itself will never be forgotten. A tuition scholarship and education fund has been established so that you can support the "A" corps members by donating in honor of someone who has passed into the Eternal Blue Line. Whether they were a part of the organization decades ago or more recently, their love for the Troopers continues to inspire us all. Please join me in honoring all those who have passed on into the Eternal Blue Line by visiting https://www.troopersalumni.com/eternal.
Looking ahead, 2025 is shaping up to be a monumental year for the Troopers. The “A” corps program is coming together beautifully, and we are eager to share exciting announcements after the holidays. While you wait, be sure to visit www.TroopStore.org for our 2025 winter apparel—perfect for staying warm while representing the Troopers!
This season reminds us of the values that unite us: giving, servant leadership, family, lifting one another up, and never forgetting those that helped us along the way. Together, we are not just part of an organization; we are part of a legacy—a family that spans generations, lifting others to greatness while holding true to the traditions that define the Troopers.
Wishing you and your loved ones a joyful holiday season filled with love, gratitude, and hope for the year ahead.
With honor, loyalty and dedication,
Michael Gough
Executive Director, Troopers Drum & Bugle Corps
