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AFCENT Band brings some country to deployed members

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Veronica McMahon
  • 379 Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs
SOUTHWEST ASIA --  The U.S. Air Forces Central Band, 'Wild Blue Country,' entertained deployed members in Southwest Asia May 16 with a two-hour set featuring music from modern country to classic rock standards.

The band has been traveling throughout the area of responsibility since the beginning of March performing for troops and citizens of host nations.

"Being on stage and playing is my favorite thing," said Tech. Sgt. Stephen Brannen, AFCENT Band NCOIC and guitarist. "[I enjoy] getting up there and playing the music, looking into the crowd seeing the guys and gals in uniform kick back and relax."

The band also plays a bit of rock, pop and familiar songs to get the crowd going.
"It's great! These guys are good and sound just like the original artists," said U.S. Navy Lt. Greg Harkrider, deployed from Jacksonville, Fla. to the Mobile Tactical Operations Center 3 here. "[It provides] some entertainment, something to do and a good way to enjoy the evening."

Along with playing for troops downrange, the band also has another mission.
"We also focus on playing for people in the local communities," Sergeant Brannen said. "This helps us to build partnerships in the host nations."

After many shows and months of traveling in the AOR, the band is wrapping up their tour downrange next month, and heading back to Peterson AFB, Colo. to re-join the U.S. Air Force Academy Band.