Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
Available On Air Stations
Watch Live

VIDEO: Kid's Salute Turns Cymbal Crash Into Symbolic Victory

Andrew Pawelczyk, far left, saluting the flag after his cymbal crashed to the floor.
NPR
Andrew Pawelczyk, far left, saluting the flag after his cymbal crashed to the floor.

There may be no better way to start the day than with this video that's going viral.

At Eisenhower Junior High School in Darien, Ill., last month, the school band was playing the national anthem. Thirteen-year-old percussionist Andrew Pawelczyk was clashing his cymbals at all the appropriate moments.

Then, one of his straps broke. Andrew's right cymbal fell to the floor.

Advertisement

For a moment, Andrew tells CNN, he thought about running to get a replacement cymbal. But then he came up with a great idea.

He stood and saluted the flag.

Watch and see how it all played out. The crash comes at about the 1:05 mark.

Copyright 2013 NPR. To see more, visit www.npr.org.

Fact-based local news is essential

KPBS keeps you informed with local stories you need to know about — with no paywall. Our news is free for everyone because people like you help fund it.

Without federal funding, community support is our lifeline.
Make a gift to protect the future of KPBS.