A boy who plays the saxophone for first responders hosts a special event for veterans

(WXYZ) – The local boy who made headlines playing the saxophone every Friday morning for first responders at the Town of Farmington Hills complex is hosting a special event for veterans this Friday.

13-year-old Oliver Strickfaden’s special performance is scheduled for 7:30 a.m. at the Farmington Hills Police Department.

Strickfaden will also be serving coffee, hot chocolate donuts and bagels to all veterans who attend.

We met Strickfaden in February. He gets up early every Friday to play the national anthem on his saxophone in front of the Farmington Hills Fire Department, City Hall and Police Department.

“I wanted to give back to the community, especially in the times we’re living in right now. And that was just a good thing to do,” Oliver said.

It’s a move Oliver started in October 2021, and come rain or shine or snow, he’s showing it.

“I went when it was snowing and it was minus 10 degrees outside and it was really cold,” he said.

He said he did it without any need for recognition – but soon after he started people noticed.

“That kind of dedication is just admirable,” Farmington Hills Police Sgt. Christopher Steuer said.

Stunned by his engagement, the word spread. The Oakland County Sheriff’s Office even offered him the opportunity to ride for an air patrol.

“It was awesome,” Oliver said.

Oliver is a young man of many talents. He’s part of the Civic Youth Ensemble for the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, is an accomplished LEGO builder, and I’m told he throws a really fast ball.

But above these many talents, there is his kindness and his devotion.

“I’m hoping to do that as long as I’m in this field, so it could be until I finish high school or around that time,” Oliver said.