The Navy Band Great Lakes and Marine Corps Band New Orleans will visit the Glass City to celebrate Navy Week and the Bicentennial of the War of 1812 with a concert on Friday, Aug. 24 at The University of Toledo.

“We are honored to present this bicentennial commemoration concert recognizing the tremendous contributions during the War of 1812 by our United States Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard,” said Lt. Patrick Kevin Sweeten, director of the Navy Band Great Lakes.

The free, public event is scheduled to take place from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in Doermann Theatre, located on the third floor of University Hall.

The Navy Band Great Lakes is comprised of 45 professional musicians who perform more than 600 missions each year, including military ceremonies, public performances and more. Since the first bugler reported for duty over 100 years ago, “Pride in Service” has been the theme for Navy Band Great Lakes.

The Marine Corps Band New Orleans began in 1978 and performs more than 250 times annually, entertaining over six million people.

“I believe the audience will take from this patriotic performance pride for our Armed Forces accomplishments over the years, while also learning some important facts about our nation’s history and the critical role our Sea Services Team plays in world affairs,” Sweeten said.

Guests attending the concert may park in the grassy area across from University Hall, between Goddard and Drummond roads with access from Goddard. Directional signs will be posted and Rocket Patrol will be there to assist guests with parking.

This concert at UT is one of many in Toledo during Navy Week, which also includes tours of the U.S.S.Hurricane, U.S.S. De Wert and the historic U.S. Brig Niagra. The community also will have the opportunity to learn about the War of 1812 and the relevance of today’s Navy, and see the U.S. Navy and Coastguard as well as the Canadian Navy firsthand through community events and outreach.

To learn more about the Navy Band Great Lakes visit www.netc.navy.mil/nstc/navyband.

For more information about Navy Week in Toledo, visit navyweek.org/toledo2012.