ALUMNI BUFFALO GALS

In 1957, the Buffalo Gals Drum and Bugle Corps was founded by Richard King. The birth of this unique marching unit was a wonderful event and one that would shape the future of Buffalo High School and the town of Buffalo for decades to come.

From the very beginning the Gals worked hard to perfect their marching and musical skills and their dedication always paid off. Through the years, they marched their way into the hearts of Dallas County residents, parade spectators, and competition judges wherever they performed, They traveled all over the state of Missouri and in many states as well, winning countless trophies and honors while building an impeccable reputation for superb entertainment and showmanship.

Hundreds of Gals came and went over the years as did a number of music teachers, some of whom were Richard King, Fretla Heady, Joe Bi!! George, and Byran Elhard. Today, those teachers are still remembered with much love and respect. Their talent, hard work and devotion played an enormous role in the life of the corps,

Unfortunately, by the mid to late 1980's, the Corps was declining in numbers and in 1993 it was finally disbanded, bringing to a close some 36 years of a truly remarkable group. But as sad as that was, when one door closes, another one opens, thus the Alumni Buffalo Gals Drum and Bugle Corps was born. In 1995, with the assistance of Bryan Elhard, the Alumni Gals performed for the first time in the Buffalo Christmas parade and have marched nonstop ever since, "again" receiving many trophies and honors. Ranging in age from 20 to 60, the Gals have performed in many towns and cities, including Kansas City, Missouri; Independence, Kansas; Fort Madison, Iowa and Dallas, Texas. The Gals are very appreciative for the various forms of support they continue to receive from the Buffalo community.

At first, the Corps' membership numbered in the 50s, but as time passed, it started to decline (as it had done in High School) and presently has 33 members. The Gals have enjoyed making new friends within the Corps and renewing old friendships. Physical shapes and sizes may have changed some since High School days as have the uniforms, songs, and marching routines, but the Buffalo Gal spirit remains intact. This is the same spirit that still thrills at the sound of a drum cadence or swells with pride at the sound of applause. Most importantly, the Gals continue to enjoy the opportunity to relive a very special time in their past, which just goes to prove that you really can go home again and history truly does repeat itself.

LIST OF ALUMNI BUFFALO GALS