February 8, 1938. The day marks the first rehearsal of the Madison Scouts Drum and Bugle Corps. If those first members could see into the future and find over 4300 alumni of the organization eighty-six years later, they would be proud to see the legacy live on.

In a Zoom call with over 70 participants of members, staff, alumni, and families, Executive Director Chris Komnick led a presentation that included a brief history and a look at the current Madison Scouts. 1938 signaled a rebirth of the corps with determination and passion to bring these values back to the community: character development, service to others, and pride in performance. Komnick also noted that the corps has always been inclusive from a racial and socioeconomic standpoint. This element of inclusion is an important element to the foundation of the drum corps, which ultimately led to gender inclusivity.

In addition to the remembrance of the corps, Program Coordinator Mark Waymire talked briefly about what to expect from the 2024 Madison Scouts. Waymire considers “swagger, hummable tunes, and the ‘it’ factor” to be important in a show to maintain the Madison Scout identity in modern times. Once the season starts, plenty of opportunities to see the corps will be available, including community performances and shows across the country.

“May You Never Walk Alone” is about collectively supporting each other during the good and difficult times. It is something members and alumni live to promote a family aspect in the corps. Brothers and sisters over several decades have come together to share their love and support for the Madison Scouts during good times and bad. 

Here's to 86 great years, let’s make it 86 more. MYNWA Alumni.