The Alabama Symphony Orchestra (ASO) community honors our veterans for their vital contributions to defending our freedom. We can genuinely honor veterans by deepening our understanding of their experiences and supporting them in meaningful ways that address their needs and challenges. Here, we say “thank you for your service” with this feature about one veteran, as we follow one of our core missions, which is to connect people through the power of live symphonic music in Birmingham, creating shared experiences that uplift and unite.
Whenever you attend a Coffee Concert at UAB’s Alys Stephens Center, you might spot Retired Master Sergeant George Coward, a familiar face in the audience. Having served for an impressive 39 years, Sgt. Coward built his career in Global Logistics for the U.S. Army, ensuring the smooth movement of supplies and equipment across the world—a mission that kept operations running for combatant commands everywhere.
Enlisting in 1964, Coward served in Central America, Germany, Japan, and across the United States. Out of respect for each culture, he learned German, French, Japanese, and Spanish. He describes his time in the Army as “a most gratifying experience.” Reflecting on his role at a missile site, he recalls “successfully moving equipment around the world—especially using the Army’s supply ships.” With a grin, he adds, “The Army has more ships than the Navy.”
Now retired, Coward enjoys attending the ASO Coffee Concert Series and often visits other events such as the New Year’s Eve Concert. He always attends with his dear friend Linda Pearce, whom he met at church. They love the music, the friendships, and the warmth of the ASO community. “They are a real pleasure, and I even get hugs,” he says—proof that the orchestra’s concerts truly create a sense of belonging.
Music has always been a part of Coward’s life. As a child, he admired Victor Borge for his humor and piano artistry. Today, he finds that same joy at the ASO’s holiday and pops performances led by conductor Christopher Confessore. His favorite pieces include Beethoven’s Moonlight Sonata and Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture, both staples of the classical concert repertoire.
Pearce shares his enthusiasm: “The Alabama Symphony Orchestra brings musical experiences to all groups, especially the elderly,” she says. Together, they even recall a pianist from the Philippines who once performed with ASO and whom they hope to see return as a featured soloist.
As Coward beautifully puts it, “Life is fulfilling, and it is a pleasure to be alive. Sometimes it is difficult to get old, but when you hear music, you are made to feel good. People—staff, volunteers, and musicians—go the extra mile here.”
By Mary Yakimowski, ASO Patron Experience Volunteer, 2024/2025 and 2025/2026
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