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Tops in Blue perform for McChord

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Brenden Marlin
  • 62nd Airlift Wing Public Affairs
JOINT BASE LEWIS-MCCHORD, Wash. --  The Tops in Blue tour, composed of the Air Force's best singers, dancers and performers, performed here in Hanger 9, June 18. This year's tour started May 17 and has traveled to eight bases across the United States so far.

Tops in Blue has traveled more than four million miles to military bases throughout the world, performed at six World Fairs, more than 100 state fairs and festivals, and performed at countless air shows, military balls and special events.

"The show is a great way to showcase our talented Airmen and show how we help our troops relieve some stress here and all over the world," said Col. Anthony Davit, 627th Air Base Group commander.

More than 35 Airmen are performing this year during the on-going tradition that started when Maj. Al Reilly created the Air Force World Wide Talent Contest in 1953, which later became the Tops in Blue.

"It is and always has been an outstanding show," said Chief Master Sgt. Anthony Woods, 627th Air Base Group senior enlisted advisor.

The group is comprised of Airmen from various Air Force specialty codes and backgrounds. Senior Airman Steven Dores, 823rd Maintenance Squadron aircraft electrical and systems journeymen has an extensive six year background in audio and visual effects from volunteering his time working at local churches and is a technician on the tour.

"It's a lot of fun," Dores said describing his experience on the tour. "To do something I take as a pastime and now, quite literally 24/7, lead a team, set-up, tear down and run a show in the Air Force, is a once in a life time experience."

One audience member was excited to enjoy Tops in Blue with her children the way she did at Okinawa Japan, during the 1980's. Her daughter, jumping in excitement, hoped they would play "Let it go" from the Disney movie, Frozen.

The audience enjoyed that song and many more popular hits, such as "Happy" from musical artist Pharrell Williams, "YMCA" by the Village People, and "All Of Me" from John Legend. The night of music and performances ended with a series of patriotic songs.

When everything is said and done, we all wear the same uniform, said Col. Chuck Hodges, Joint Base Headquarters commander, who spoke to the Airmen after the show. He continued to say that Airmen are all on the same team, helping one another accomplish the bigger picture whether that is on the ground, in the air or entertaining our troops.

To find out more information about Tops in Blue, visit: www.topsinblue.com