Airman First Class Benjamin Smelser serves as a trombone player for the Band of Mid-America.

Joining the Air Force in 2021, Airman Smelser was assigned to the USAF Band of Mid-America, Scott Air Force Base, IL. He is originally from Dekalb, IL. Before his time in the Air Force, Airman Smelser pursued a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree from Northwestern University. He has performed in multiple prolific musical settings, giving multiple solo recitals and substituting with groups including the Civic Orchestra of Chicago and Chicago Symphony Orchestra. His teachers include Michael Mulcahy, Timothy Higgins, Douglas Wright, Randall Hawes, and Christopher Davis.

EDUCATION

2019 Bachelor of Music, Trombone Performance, Northwestern University                                                                                         
2021 Master of Music, Trombone Performance, Northwestern University

ASSIGNMENTS

2021 – Present: USAF Band of Mid-America, Scott AFB, IL

AWARDS

AF Training Ribbon
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
National Defense Service Medal

EFFECTIVE DATE OF PROMOTION

Airman First Class: 13 August 2021