1976 would be the final season for Starcher's Marchers

"So what do the initials R. L. stand for?"

This question was posed to Starcher by long-time booster and future two time booster president Jimmy Smith (father of Karen and Pam).  Starcher answered, "Winning Through Intimidation". 

Ok, there were too many words and none of them started with an R or an L, but his point was clear, R. L. Starcher believes in Winning Through Intimidation, and for his three years as director, the Raiders did just that.  Starcher was a hard case who seriously believed you won or lost before you stepped on the field based on how you presented yourself. 

Jimmy Smith remembers that when other bands first arrived at contests their members all exited their buses in something akin to disorganized chaos, but not Starcher's Marchers.  They unloaded one bus at the time and did so in single file.  Starcher brought his version of militaristic discipline to the Raiders, which would stay in place for many years even after his departure, and would result in some of the Raiders' most successful seasons.

Assistant Director John Kime's yearbook photo from the Treasure Chest

Assistant and Director together for one of their final times as Raiders

Mr. Kime starts the warming process which is so important to great tonality

The 1976 Marching Raider Band

Since all the posed yearbook photos from this year were taken in the gym, I have to wonder, was it raining on picture day?  Surely a Marcher of Starcher's can email me with the answer.

The Woodwinds

The Brass

Which includes not only brass, but a high percentage of fiberglass as well thanks to the tuba section.

The Color Guard

Yet another photo with a staple in proverbial belly button of a Raiders centerfold

Drum Major

Tim Blanton

Majorettes

Tammy Chance and Sherry Warner

Drum Major

Wanda Langley

"It's Strong enough for a man, but made for a Marcher"

Somebody's Trippin'

The culprit appears to be Drum line Trips Player Mike Dyson.

Drum Major Tim Blanton believes it is time to sustain this particular note.  I say we go with the idea.

These guard member wait their turn to snap their flags up during a half-time show at Raider Stadium

Majorette Tammy Chance high steppin' on the field of competition

Drum Major Wanda Langley directs the elephant of instruments, the marching tympani

This thing is heavy even if it is sixty percent fiberglass.  If you don't believe me, just ask this guy.

 Homecoming 1976

The Raiders work up the crowd in the gym in preparation for tonight's big game.