Scott's View: Ellis Marsalis, Marine, and Father of Grammy Award Winners

It has been said that military service shows up in all areas of life, so as this weekend's Grammy Awards hearkens back to the history of its own greats, we should remember those who also wore the uniform. That said, we recognize Ellis Marsalis, the father of Wynton and Branford and the other talented Marsalis children, whose family has brought home more than 10 Grammys. Ellis also served in the Marines, even using his gift of music to help recruitment efforts.

Outside of service, he has brought his sense of integrity and excellence towards education, inspiring so many kids along the way to follow their passions through music, starting with his sons. And with February being African American History Month, we have another key reason to admire his accomplishments.

"The dedication my father has to the music is something that always stays with me. He plays his heart out whether it's a gig for thousands or just six people in a club," Wynton tells NYC DADS, the Mayor of New York City's Fatherhood initiative.

You can read more about Ellis here.