SSgt MeLan K. Smartt is Regional Band Vocalist at The United States Air Force Band of Mid-America, Scott AFB, IL. The 60-member unit, composed of seven musical ensembles, performs throughout a ten-state area of responsibility as an ambassador of the Air Force and Air Mobility Command. The unit strives to inspire the hearts and minds of our men and women serving around the world and to tell the Air Force story through the universal language of music.
A native of Detroit, MI, Sergeant Smartt is a graduate of Tennessee State University where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Vocal Music Performance. She enlisted in the United States Air Force 13 February 2018 and graduated basic training in April of 2018. She has served over 6 years active duty and has had held several leadership positions and additional duties, including leading a DAF band diversity initiative. Prior to her current assignment SSgt Smartt served at The Band of Flight Wright-Patterson AFB, IL . She has served two deployments at Al Udeid AB, Qatar.
Prior to her enlistment, she was a freelance vocalist and songwriter. This work included private and public events, as well as studio recordings. In addition to performing, she taught Music Appreciation, Music Theory, and was a High School Choral Director and Department Head of Voice in Detroit, MI.
EDUCATION
2013 Bachelors’ Degree in Music, Tennessee State University, Nashville, TN
ASSIGNMENTS
- April 2016 – August 2022, Regional Band, Vocalist, Wright-Patterson AFB, OH
- August 2022- Present, Regional Band, Vocalist, Scott AFB, IL
MAJOR AWARDS AND DECORATIONS
Air and Space Achievement Medal with one oak leaf cluster
AF Good Conduct Medal with one oak leaf cluster
National Defense Service Medal
Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Air and Space Expeditionary Service Ribbon
Air and Space Longevity Service Award
USAF NCO PME Graduate Ribbon
Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon (Rifle)
Air and Space Training Ribbon
EFFECTIVE DATES OF PROMOTION
Airman Basic 13 February 2018
Airman First Class 16 April 2018
Senior Airman 15 June 2020
Staff Sergeant 1 April 2022
(Current as of June 2024)