AFCENT band develops relationships anywhere, anytime

Published Oct. 22, 2015
By Capt. Jason S. Plosch
U.S. Air Force Central Command Band

ESKAN VILLAGE, Saudi Arabia -- Full Spectrum, the U.S. Air Forces Central Command band, once again adapted and overcame adversity to bring a slice of home and use the power of music to entertain deployed service members, contractors, and civilians at Eskan Village and the U.S. Embassy in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Performing without their drummer due to passport and visa issues, the band still entertained members and leadership of the 879th Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron and those assigned to the Office of the Program Manager, Saudi Arabia National Guard Modernization Program.

“The base was abuzz about the band coming to Eskan,” said Master Sgt. Shenae Roberts, superintendent of the communications flight. “We simply don’t get very much entertainment through here, so any change from the normal routine is greatly appreciated.”

Roberts was much more than a fan, she was a logistics guru for the band, arranged transportation to and from Eskan Village, arranged airport transportation, and made sure the group had what it needed. She routinely checked in while the band was on base.

“She was one of the most attentive sponsors I’ve ever had the pleasure of working with,” said Staff Sgt. Jordan Kimble, operations representative and bassist for Full Spectrum.

Roberts had plenty of help as Technical Sgt. Tabitha Bennett was also instrumental in assisting with the band. Their thoughtful “southern” hospitality was apparent at every meeting.

“Thanks for being here and playing for us,” said Lt. Col. Joel Briske, 879th ESFS commander. “We have a unique mission set here and any break from the normal routine is welcomed. Your mission is every bit as important as any other mission in the Air Force.”

Briske showed his appreciation by presenting commander’s coins to the band before they departed.

The trip coincided with the annual Oktoberfest celebration at Eskan Village. While a disc jockey provided most of the music, the band performed a dance set during the evening.

Tech. Sgt. Jason Cale, singer and guitarist for the band, made a connection while talking with the crowd after the first concert. “I just struck up a conversation with a guy and his wife who have been here for several months. We ended up talking about music and guitar playing and the next thing I know I’m over at his villa and we’re playing guitar and I’m giving him some pointers. He had quite a collection of gear.”

Cale, now on his third deployment with the AFCENT band, went on to talk about the relationships he developed over the years while stationed overseas, as well as during deployments, and how music can bridge the gap between services, cultures, and ultimately between human beings.

“Some of my best memories aren’t the performances we’ve done. The best memories I have are meeting amazing people and getting to know their stories along the way,” said Cale.

The group’s final performance was for the amazing professionals and their families at the U.S. Embassy in Riyadh.

The AFCENT band is the first air force band permanently assigned to the U.S. Central Command’s area of responsibility. Based in Southwest Asia, the band is comprised of deployed Airmen from active duty and Air National Guard bands.