A1C Kelly is a trumpet player in the USAF Band of Mid-America at Scott Air Force Base, IL. As a classically trained trumpeter, he currently performs as a member of the brass quintet, concert band, and marching band. A1C Kelly is also the operations representative for the brass quintet and marching band, securing mission logistics for both ensembles.
After a successful audition at Lackland Air Force Base, A1C Kelly joined the Air Force in October 2021, finishing basic training in November. He began his career with the Band of Mid-America as a member of the Shades of Blue Jazz Ensemble in January 2022, also joining the concert and ceremonial bands shortly after. In August, he joined Starlifter, one of the pop/rock bands at the Band of Mid-America. A year later, he joined the brass quintet as both trumpeter and operations representative. During his time with the Band of Mid-America, A1C Kelly has represented the Air Force in 12 states and 7 countries.
A1C Kelly deployed with Starlifter in April 2023 to Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar to serve as the AFCENT Band. He performed for over 100,000 people across the middle east, including U.S. embassy ceremonies, troop morale concerts, public performances, and honoring fallen warriors as a bugler.
EDUCATION
Baylor University, Waco, TX
Basic Military Training, Lackland Air Force Base, TX
ASSIGNMENTS
October 2021-November 2021, Basic Military Training, Lackland Air Force Base, Texas
December 2021-present, Trumpet, USAF Band of Mid-America, Scott Air Force Base, Illinois
MAJOR AWARDS AND DECORATIONS
Air and Space Achievement Medal
Air and Space Expeditionary Service Ribbon with Gold Border
EFFECTIVE DATES OF PROMOTION
Airman Basic October 2021
Airman November 2021
Airman First Class August 2023
(Current as of June 2024)