By Henry R. Moncur III | ACTU Communication
Long before the sun stretches above the horizon, the 2nd Atlantic Caribbean Union (ATCU) Camporee being held in the Cayman Islands is already coming to life. As the crowing of roosters echoes across the campsite, campers begin making their way to the shower facilities, and another day full of adventure, and spiritual growth is about to begin. While the exhibitions, honors, competitions, food, and fellowship have become memorable features of camporee, there is one tradition that has quickly become the soundtrack of each new day: the Camporee Band.
From the opening ceremony to the daily line call, the Band has become one of the defining experiences of the 2026 Atlantic Caribbean Union Camporee. Their inspiring music filled the air during the official opening ceremony and, each morning, as the first rays of sunlight break over the campsite, the band leads campers into another day of activity with stirring marching and flag raising music.
One Band, One Sound
What makes the band even more unique is the composition. Rather than relying on a single conference, musicians from every conference across ATCU come together to form one united ensemble. As only a portion of the band is uses each morning for line call, different musicians rotate into the band, giving young instrumentalists from throughout the Union the opportunity to serve while representing their conference.
For Band Coordinator Ricardo Brown, the morning performances are about much more than music. “The band sets the tone for the entire day. As campers gather for line call, the music brings everyone together in unity, excitement, and purpose. It reminds us that we are one Pathfinder family, with one mission, serving one God, even though we come from different islands and conferences. Music has a way of lifting spirits, creating discipline, and preparing hearts for the day’s activities.”
Representing with Pride
For many of the young musicians, playing in the Band is both an honor and an unforgettable experience.
Though she has been playing the drums for only a year with the band, AzariahJacksonMorgan is already relishing the opportunity to be part of the Camporee Band. “It feels great being a part of something bigger than myself. Knowing that we can help make sure each morning begins with energy and ends with a strong finish at line call makes me proud to be part of the band.”
For Kemuel Sterling who plays the drums, being part of the Union Band is both an emotional and rewarding experience. “You get a rush of emotions when you play. If you’re mad or sad, it goes away just by hitting the sticks on the drum. Marching in front of people and with people feels great because you are leading the band.”
“Playing alongside other Pathfinders from across the Union has been exciting,” said Leo Rolle Jr, who plays the trumpet. Even though we come from different places, once we start playing together, it feels like one family making one sound.”
For Azariah Leo, Kemuel, and the other young musicians, the experience extends beyond performing. It is an opportunity to build friendships, develop their musical talents, represent their conferences with pride, and contribute to an atmosphere that inspires fellow Pathfinders each morning.
Sounding the Call to Finish Strong
Each morning, as campers stand at attention during the flag raising ceremony for the line call, the music serves as more than entertainment. It becomes a symbol of unity, excellence, and discipline. The familiar melodies energize the campsite while reminding every Pathfinder that they are part of something much bigger than themselves.
Fittingly, the ministry of the Band echoes the theme of the 2026 Atlantic Caribbean Union Camporee, Strong Finish. Just as the musicians faithfully take their places each morning, giving their very best to inspire others, they remind every Pathfinder that finishing strong is not reserved for the final day of camp. It is a daily commitment. Every sunrise brings another opportunity to serve with excellence, to stand together in unity, and to keep pressing forward until the journey is complete.
About ATCU
The ATCU, headquartered in Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas, comprises 29,439 members across four fields: the Cayman Islands Conference, the North Bahamas Conference, the South Bahamas Conference, and the Turks and Caicos Islands Conference. Additionally, Northern Caribbean University in Mandeville, Jamaica, is co-owned and operated by both ATCU and the Jamaica Union.