Justin Kubiak of Zephyrhills, Florida, has spent over four decades playing the national anthem on Memorial Day and other patriotic holidays. Standing in his front yard with neighbors gathered around him, he strums his electric guitar while an amplifier projects the Star-Spangled Banner. This tradition began as a way for Kubiak to earn his father’s approval after choosing a musical career instead of following in his father’s footsteps as a soldier. His father, Gene, served in the Army during Vietnam and protected astronauts during the Apollo program. Despite initially disapproving of Kubiak’s rock star aspirations, his father eventually came to support his son’s passion for music. Even after his father passed away, Kubiak continues this meaningful ritual that has become a beloved neighborhood tradition. Neighbors express their pride in Kubiak and appreciate how he honors their shared American identity through this annual performance.
Local Man Plays National Anthem for 40 Years to Honor Father
