Washington -- In a ceremony held in the Santelmann Orchestra Hall at the Marine Barracks Annex in Washington, D. C., on Nov. 12, Marine Band Director Col. Michael J. Colburn retired assistant principal cellist Master Sgt. Diana Fish. He also awarded her the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal in recognition of her 21 years of service and such accomplishments as leading small ensembles at the White House, Vice President’s Quarters, and the home of the Commandants; participating in educational outreach initiatives; and serving as the band’s
professional military education committee chairperson.
In his remarks, Col. Colburn lauded Fish for her superb musicianship, generosity of spirit, and ever-present reassuring smile. Concertmaster and long-time friend Master Gunnery Sgt. Claudia Chudacoff echoed Col. Colburn’s compliments and expounded on Fish’s unassuming sense of humor.
Fish thanked Col. Colburn, Chudacoff, the members of the Marine Band, and her mother for their support, friendship, and musicianship and closed her remarks with “Some Final Words” by Poet Laureate Billy Collins.