Air Force band salutes unsung heroes

  • Published
  • By Robin DeMark
  • 4 FW Public Affairs
Seymour Johnson AFB, N.C. --  Without realizing it, military children experience the strain of war when a parent deploys for several months to serve the nation. They learn how to adapt at home, adjust to different school schedules and are often cared for by grandparents and other family members.

To honor these unsung heroes, the Langley Winds woodwinds assemble will entertain military and civilian children at Meadow Lane Elementary School, Oct. 6.

"Dr. Jill Biden (wife of Vice President Biden) has said, during this time of war military children may have one or both parents deployed overseas and in harm's way," said Master Sgt. John Cisar, non-commissioned officer-in-charge, Heritage of America band public affairs office. They may have to care for a parent who is wounded or called to keep alive the memory of a fallen hero who they call mom or dad."

Military children face diverse challenges and are part of our country's security.

"Supporting our military children is a top priority for our country's leadership," said Maj. Jeff Warner, band commander. "This is one of our first lady's, Michelle Obama's, signature issues. She has said, when our troops are called to serve, their families serve too. Military children play their own very unique role in keeping our country safe...their strength and support helps our troops serve."

In addition to carrying out the first lady's mission, band members are personally rewarded when they play for school age children.

"Seeing the smiles of the children and their positive reaction to the music fulfills us," said Senior Master Sgt. J.R. Erb, band superintendent. "Military children are unsung heroes as they quietly support their active duty parents through frequent moves, school changes, deployments and long hours away from home. Nothing we can do is possible without their support. This is our chance to give something back to them."

The Air Force band has entertained the Goldsboro community and military families before.

"We've enjoyed a rock-solid relationship with Goldsboro for many years," Warner said. "This community is one of our most dedicated and loyal partners. In May of this year, we performed at the Paramount Theater to a sold-out crowd a part of the Celebrating Heros tour to honor our deployed members. We look forward to many more years of great partnering with this community."

Air Force bands organize, train and deploy professional Airman musicians, harnessing the power of music to inspire immediate, positive, and long-lasting impressions of the United States Air Force and the United States of America in the hearts and minds of audiences worldwide.