It's time for song and dance. American Indian style. The sixth annual Shenandoah Valley Pow Wow brings eight state recognized tribes together, along with people from all over the United States.

Daniel Gear can't miss a beat, even in this 90 degree heat. He's got a big responsibility as the head dancer at this pow wow, with everyone following his lead.

"It's a great honor, it means that somebody believes in you, has enough respect in you, the way you dance, the way you carry yourself, the way you represent your people to come and lead all the other dancers," says Head Male Dancer, Daniel Gear.

Gear is a Monacan Indian. He says events like these are an important part of keeping up American Indian tradition.

"It's essential to our way of life, if we didn't keep up this tradition we would die as Indian people," says Gear. Gear has been dancing for about 30 years, but on this particular day he's keeping one group in mind.

"Here it is Father's Day all these Vets over in war right now who may never return to their kids to be wished Happy Father's Day, this is our time to get together to support each other, to support our Veterans," says Gear.

Although it may be unbearably hot, it's not affecting the musicians, the little dancers, or even Gear from remembering why they're here. "So I dance for them, they're over there fighting for me it's the least I can do for them so the circle goes on and on so it's our tradition to do that," says Gear.

The Shenandoah Valley Pow Wow wraps up Sunday evening.