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Patriotic Spirit Exuberant in Coolidge, Arizona

  • Published
  • By Master Sergeant Steven M. Przyzycki
  • The United States Air Force Academy Band
Central Arizona College, Coolidge, Arizona --  Your United States Air Force Academy Band performed to a completely packed house here tonight. "The audience was charged," said Chief Master Sergeant Scott Barbier. "It was great to see that patriotism is alive and well throughout Arizona, and to witness that kind of support of our United States Air Force."
 
As the buses pulled off the beaten path, and down a somewhat less traveled, rural road, I must admit that I was a bit skeptical. Would we have a good crowd here tonight? Would the audience be enthusiastic? Do the folks out here have faith in their Air Force? Yes, yes, and yes! I remain elated at the audience's resounding ovation to tonight's show.

The show's "Airpower" theme was present throughout the night. The band's commander, Lieutenant Colonel Larry H. Lang, led the band through a variety of selections that parallel the diversity and ingenuity found in today's Air Force.
Soloists for the evening included Technical Sergeant Todd Gustafson from Stevens Point, Wisconsin, performing "The Open Road" by John Moody. "The agility of Todd's playing on the piano is representative of the excellence found throughout the Air Force," said Senior Master Sergeant Mark Burditt.

Vocal soloist Technical Sergeant Nancy Poffenbarger was featured singing Craig Carnelia's "Flight" which was skillfully arranged for the band by our very own Technical Sergeant Ken Soper. "This song poignantly describes the exhilaration of the whole flight experience," said Chief Master Sergeant Randy Doersch, "Ask any Air Force Academy cadet about their studies, and you will soon find out that he or she is most passionate about the study of aviation," added Senior Master Sergeant Mark Burditt.

On a personal note, tonight's concert served to further remind me of the importance of the band's mission. Ladies and gentlemen, we are living in uncertain times right now. Our country is at war. Our economy is unsettled. Yet, pride in the young men and women of our armed forces remains steadfast. Patriotism and honor for all those who have served has never been greater. People came out in droves for tonight's show, and the reaction was overwhelming. People have such great faith in America, and they love their Air Force. Integrity, Excellence, and Service will prevail and guarantee our success as a nation as we meet the challenges the future holds in store for us.

The Airpower theme was further accentuated with the world premiere performance of Julie Giroux's "The Speed of Heat" which describes flight from an Air Force fighter-pilot's perspective, and through the playing of Ron Goodwin's resounding anthem of aviation, "Those Magnificent Men in Their Flying Machines."

The second half of the concert opened with a celebration of our heritage and showcased the music of famous Air Force Band leader, Major Glenn Miller. Starring is the role of this legendary World War II band leader was the Commander of the Air Force Academy Band Lieutenant Colonel Larry H. Lang. He led the Falconaires Jazz Band and was featured on trombone, donning the same "pinks and greens" worn by Miller himself. As always, the concert concluded with a rousing, patriotic salute to our nation and those who serve. All veterans and their families were honored as the audience gave their approval with a standing ovation. It was a patriotic night in Coolidge, Arizona, as the spirit of flight and pride in our Air Force was told through the universal language of music by your United States Air Force Academy Band.