Bob Buckner has served many years and in numerous capacities on the Board of Directors of the NCBA. Bob was a high school band director for several years in the Western District, most of his years spent at Sylva Webster High School. In that time (late 60’s through 1979) he developed a small A high school into one of the finest band programs in our state. The band received numerous “superior” ratings in concert and marching band events. In 1979 marching band won the Marching Bands of America Grand National Competition. Since he retired from high school directing, Bob has written drill for many of the outstanding bands in North Carolina and across the country. He is a member of the Bands of America Hall of Fame. Bob served as director for Western Carolina University “Pride of the Mountains” Marching Band for almost 20 years. In 2011 the band won the Sudler Award. While Bob is known for his reputation with marching band, he is one of the finest experts on concert band and an incredible teacher. He has been my mentor for years and I nominate him proudly. He is not only one of my heroes, but he is also my friend.