Sgt. Heather Song

 

Tell us about the Parris Island Marine Band:

The Parris Island Marine Band is a phenomenal musical ensemble, which performs for thousands of people from across the country almost every Friday at recruit graduations. The Band also performs at other military ceremonies and gives concerts throughout the community many times a year.  

What performance has meant the most to you?

I had the opportunity to travel with the III Marine Expeditionary Force Band to Pohang, South Korea to perform for the Republic of Korea Marines stationed there. We use a few different ensembles, including the ceremonial band and rock band. The most memorable part of that performance was I narrated the entire concert in Korean. Not only did I represent the American aspect of my life, but I also was able to show everyone my family’s culture by speaking Korean. As if that wasn’t nerve-wracking enough, I also performed the famous Stars and Stripes solo to the hundreds of Korean Marines watching our performance. 

Everyone wants to know…how do you get a perfect bun every time?I actually used to use a lot of olive oil based gel. Now, I use a leave-in conditioner, or coconut oil, and use the gel as a type of sealant to keep my hair smooth and tight. Also a little hairspray helps throughout the day!

Describe boot camp in three words: Demanding, strenuous and worthwhile.

What advice do you have for young women interested in joining the marines? Don’t let anyone doubt you as a woman in anything, especially if you’re thinking about joining the Marines. I believe whole-heartedly that women can do anything like a man, as long as they put their minds to it. The physical portion of being a Marine is simple because all you have to do is train your body. The mental portion is where one really needs to focus. There can be so many mental stressors that can affect one negatively. If you can re-wire your mind to overcome those stressors and push forward through any task, the Marines will be a truly gratifying experience.

For me, the most challenging aspect about being a woman in the marines: Any Marine who is 5’2’’, with a naturally positive and cheerful personality, is not immediately deemed as an authoritative figure. But like any leader, over time, I have proven I can lead my peers and subordinate Marines.

If I were given a free vacation I’d go to: Barcelona, Spain

The current top 5 songs on my Spotify playlist are:

“24k Magic” by Bruno Mars

“Donna Lee” by GRB All-Star Big Band

“Because of You” by Neyo

“Differences” by Ginuwine

“How Far I’ll Go” by Alessia Cara from Moana.

Hear me Roar means to me:  A roar is a powerful sound. Hear me roar is a phrase reflecting the person speaking is strong and prideful, while the roar itself is significant and mighty. 

Photography (top right) by Christian Lee Additional Photography by MCRD Parris Island