U.S. Rep. Greg Steube Announces Veterans History Project Interview Featuring Musician Third Class Dennis White, United States Navy
SARASOTA – U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) today released the latest installment of the Veterans History Project Series, featuring Musician Third Class Dennis White, United States Navy. A lifelong musician and the recipient of the John Philip Sousa Award at his high school in Springfield, Ohio, White’s journey to military service was rooted in a passion for music and a determination to serve his country.
White served at the Brooklyn Navy Yard and performed across New York City, including a national television appearance on a Saturday night version of The Tonight Show. He also played during Queen Elizabeth II’s visit to New York and attended the Broadway premiere of South Pacific. Through these once-in-a-lifetime experiences, he developed lifelong friendships and a deep appreciation for the discipline and direction instilled by military service.
“Well, basically, I’d like people to understand this: there are people who are afraid to take a challenge. And if you’re enthusiastic about something, follow your dream and follow your own guidelines; that will make you a better person. It really did change my personality, my attitude, and my character,” said White. “I don’t know where I would’ve been if I hadn’t joined the music program or even the Navy. It led to opportunities. Like I said, I didn’t give it up. I counted it as a hobby. But it gave me direction into adulthood and just made me a better person all around, I think.”
“Dennis White’s story exemplifies the unique paths our servicemembers take,” said Congressman Steube. “His service reminds us that the military doesn’t just train warriors; it molds leaders, artists, and professionals. We are honored to help preserve his legacy for future generations.”
After leaving the Navy in 1959, White went on to a successful career in banking, ultimately serving as Vice President at Ellis Bank in Sarasota. He remained involved with the Navy music community, raised a family in Florida, and continued mentoring young musicians throughout his life.
Please click here to watch the full interview.
Be sure to check Congressman Steube’s YouTube channel in the future for upcoming interviews.
The Office of Congressman Greg Steube will submit the interview to the Veterans History Project, an initiative of the Library of Congress’s American Folklife Center to collect and retain the oral histories of our nation’s veterans.
Initially started in 2000, the Veterans History Project aims to collect, preserve, and make accessible the personal accounts of the United States military veterans and Gold Star Families so that future generations may hear directly from the veterans and better understand their service. Researchers, scholars, and educators rely upon VHP collections as a primary source. The oral histories, photographs, manuscripts, and other original materials supplement historical texts and valued cultural resources. Veterans from all branches and ranks of the United States military who served in World War I through the more recent conflicts are eligible to participate. For more information on the VHP, please visit https://www.loc.gov/vets/.
If you live in Florida’s 17th Congressional district, please visit https://steube.house.gov/services/vhp to participate.
