AFCENT Band Rocks on The Rock
SOUTHWEST ASIA -- The Air Forces Central Command rock ensemble, Starlifter, performed a Memorial Day concert to a robust crowd of U.S. and coalition forces at the 386th Expeditionary Force Support Squadron’s Drop Zone lounge recently.
Starlifter performed a variety of familiar pop, dance, country hits, in addition to classic and modern rock-n-roll staples, as part of their mission to support the deployed United States and coalition military members here.
Air Force bands exist for a variety of reasons, to include increasing public understanding of the importance of air power, inspiring patriotism to encourage recruiting efforts, and advancing international relationships by using music to bridge language and cultural barriers. In addition to the international relationship mission, Starlifter’s primary priority on this visit was to bolster troop morale.
“One of the major purposes of the band is to motivate coalition forces and bring music, which is a way to break down cultural barriers. Our purpose here is to provide people some of the joy from home that music brings, as a means to lift morale and foster esprit de corps.” said Airman 1st Class Anneke Bentley, Starlifter vocalist.
The bands’ performance highlighted the individual ability of each musician and the dual vocalists, with each instumentallist and singer getting a chance to shine through featured solos.
“What I really liked is how everyone in the band got a chance to be front and center, even the sound engineer got to sing center stage.” said Master Sgt. Eduardo Osoriomoriyon, 386th Air Expeditionary Wing Inspector General’s Office superintendent. “The crowd really seemed to enjoy the show, and I hope we get to see them again soon.”
The U.S. Air Forces Central Command Band is the first permanently assigned Air Force Band to the Central Command Area of Responsibility. Based in Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar, the band is comprised of deployed Airmen from active duty, Reserve and Air National Guard bands, according to the band mission statement.
More information about the AFCENT Band can be found here.You can also stay up to date on their activity and performances on Facebook at @AFCENTBand.