Music, memories fill Waltham Senior Center on 9/11 

A day of remembrance turned into a celebration of music and community when retired Massachusetts State Police Sgt. Daniel M. Clark brought his “Singing Trooper” performance to a packed Stanley Senior Center on Sept. 11.

A U.S. Marine Corps veteran, Sgt. Clark became known as “The Singing Trooper” during his 20-year career with the Massachusetts State Police. He has performed at more than 2,500 federal, state, local and military events, including the Boston Marathon, Fenway Park and with the Boston Pops.

On Friday, Sgt. Clark turned a solemn 9/11 remembrance into a warm and celebratory event, opening with heartfelt service hymns in honor of those who served before taking the audience on a musical journey.

His repertoire ranged from emotional patriotic favorites such as “The Star-Spangled Banner” and “God Bless America” to Broadway show tunes, including “Hello, Dolly!” He also brought an Irish touch to the afternoon with a warm rendition of “Danny Boy.”

“I get great satisfaction from singing, whether it’s patriotic, Broadway, Irish tunes, whatever it is,” Clark added. “I consider it a privilege and an honor to perform, especially today on 9/11.”

The audience was with Sgt. Clark from the start.

“He has a great voice and gave a moving performance,” Waltham resident Janice Meehan said. “It was a great tribute, and the crowd certainly loved him.”

Sgt Clark didn’t stay behind the microphone, either. He moved through the audience and helped with the sing-alongs, giving a special tribute to seniors in attendance, including a happy birthday to Waltham resident Rosanne Cormier, who turns 102 next week.

For Clark, that interaction is what makes performing worthwhile.

“The audience makes the show, and the crowd today was fantastic. There was a lot of energy, and that jacks me up too,” he said. 

The afternoon ended with a standing ovation, as seniors thanked Clark for sharing his music and helping mark the occasion.