Staff Sergeant Michael Dee serves as a saxophonist with the USAF Band of Mid-America.
Originally from Fairview Heights, Illinois, Sergeant Dee attended Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville where he earned Bachelor’s Degrees in Music Education and Jazz Performance. He then attended the University of Nebraska – Lincoln where he completed a Master’s Degree in Classical Saxophone. Airman Dee has studied with Tyler Kuebler, Jason Swagler, James Hinson, Paul Haar, and Eric Richards.
Prior to joining the Air Force, Staff Sgt. Dee toured extensively across the United States and abroad with the funk and soul band Josh Hoyer and Soul Colossal utilizing guitar pedals to add harmonies and effects to the tenor saxophone. His other interests include home renovations, CrossFit, running and cats.
EDUCATION
2011 - Bachelor of Music, Southern Illinois University - Edwardsville, Edwardsville, IL
2014 - Master of Music, University of Nebraska – Lincoln, Lincoln, NE
2022 - CMSAF Bud Andrews Airman Leadership School, Scott AFB, IL
MAJOR AWARDS AND DECORATIONS
Air and Space Commendation Medal
Air and Space Achievement Medal
Air and Space Expeditionary Service Ribbon with Gold Border
AF Good Conduct Medal
National Defense Service Medal
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Air and Space Longevity Service Award
USAF NCO PME Graduate Ribbon
Basic Military Training Honor Graduate Ribbon
Air and Space Training Ribbon
ASSIGNMENTS
March - May, 2018, Basic Military Training, Lackland AFB, TX.
May 2018 - Present, Saxophone, USAF Band of Mid-America, Scott AFB, IL
EFFECTIVE DATES OF PROMOTION
Airman First Class, 4 May 2018
Senior Airman, 13 January 2020
Staff Sergeant, 1 January 2022