A former Ohio State marching band director who led the band through thin times during World War II died last week.
William B. McBride, 94, died Nov. 24; he was director of the OSU marching band from 1943-1945.
Although most universities were unable to field full marching bands — which at the time were all-male — because of men leaving to serve in the war, McBride was able to field a full marching band.
According to the OSU marching band Web site, players were often recruited to be in the band the Friday before a football game to fill vacant positions.
McBride attended Ohio Wesleyan where he played in the band and received his undergraduate degree in 1931. He continued his education at Columbia University, and after completing his doctorate degree at the University of Florida, McBride came to OSU.
He served as chairman of the Music Education Department in the School of Music and was later named assistant dean of the College of Education. After retiring in 1970 from OSU, McBride and his wife moved to Florida.
— compiled by Carrie Lymanstall
