In 1953, Burbank resident Ben Porter had an idea — to form a local boy's band to represent the city at local and regional events, including the Tournament of Roses Parade. While Ben Porter was the idea man behind the formation of the band, it was his wife, May Porter, and her friend, Rosemary Glenn, who brought his idea to fruition.
"Rosemary and I went to see Burbank Police Chief Rex Andrews and asked him what he thought of forming a boys' band," May recalled. "He thought it was a great idea and he arranged for some of the officers in his department to help us get started. Rosemary and I then went to the City Council to ask for some money for uniforms. It was a fight, but we got it."
And thus the Burbank Police Boys Band was formed. Supported by the police department as well as the city's Park and Recreation Department, the band recruited boys between the ages of 14 and 21 to showcase their musical talent in precision, military-style marching and concert performances. The organization also gave young women the opportunity to participate as the band's color guard and majorettes.
