The Star-Spangled Banner can evoke powerful emotions when performed well and with lots of passion. "Harmonica Pete" gave us exactly that.
At the U.S. women's national soccer team's (USWNT) match against Mexico, 96-year-old Pete DuPré gave a stunning rendition of the U.S. national anthem.
Watch below!
Pete steps up to the microphone, gives the crowd a wave of his hat, and then launches into his performance. This isn't his first time performing the song, as he's well known for his harmonica.
As each note rings out, the entire stadium is silent. The song comes to a peak, and small bouts of cheers break out, almost like the crowd cannot contain themselves at the display of musicianship.
After it's over, he returns to his chair and gives the cheering crowd another wave of his hand.
It is absolutely worth your time to watch.
The Rochester native is very familiar with the USNWT, as he met the team in Normandy, France, earlier this year. Carli Lloyd, one of the athletes, was so excited for the experience, calling it one of the best things she's ever done.
DuPré's parents were both part of the Canadian Air Force for the first world war. Pete himself served as a medic in the 114th general hospital in Kidderminster, England, for three years.
Many wish to thank him for his service.
The USWNT took an early lead in the match, scoring a goal in the 11th minute of the game. They kept that lead into the first half.
They won their game 3-0. The FIFA Women's World Cup begins on June 7th, with South Korea facing off against France in Paris. The USWNT will have their first game against Thailand on June 11th.
And when it happens, we'll all be cheering "U-S-A! U-S-A!"
