USAFE band energizes U.S., NATO troops downrange

  • Published
  • By 1st Lt. Elizabeth Culbertson
  • USAFE News Service
U.S. Air Forces in Europe newest musical ensemble “Direct Hit” made their first trip downrange 8-10 Feb. during a COMUSAFE trip to Manas Air Base, Kyrgyzstan , Kandahar AB and Kabul , Afghanistan and Al-Udeid AB, Qatar .

Band members included Tech. Sgt. Vincent Dublino, Tech. Sgt. Kimberly Lively, Staff Sgt. Rebecca Taylor, Staff Sgt. Douglas Bennett, Staff Sgt. Brain Kinnaman, Staff Sgt. Craig Bowman, Staff Sgt. Jeffrey Saunders, Staff Sgt. Shane Kibbey and Senior Airman Ryan Manzi.

“This was our first trip downrange, and we anticipated it with both excitement and a bit of nervousness,” said Sergeant Dublino, the group’s non-commissioned officer in charge and keyboard player. “The itinerary was fast-paced, with plenty of challenges, and more importantly, rewards.”

Despite short timelines and equipment challenges, “Direct Hit” stayed true to its name, scoring big with the audiences at Manas, Kabul and Al-Udeid. Rocking to such hits as “ Sweet Home Alabama ,” “Mustang Sally,” “Son of a Preacher Man,” and “Superstition,” the group had the crowds on their feet singing along, clapping and dancing.

“We use music as a medium to reach people, even when we don’t share the same language,” said vocalist Sergeant Bowman. “Trips like these also allow us to add music to our repertoire.”

“The trip afforded us the opportunity to shine and to bring a slice of home to our troops,” added Sergeant Dublino.

Sergeant Taylor, drums, said she was also pleased for the opportunity to serve.

“I was very excited that we finally got the opportunity to come downrange with the general and support the people that are out on the front lines, away from their families,” she said.

Band members said the trip taught them more about working together.

“We’ve learned a lot about teamwork on this trip,” said Sergeant Bowman.

The best part of the trip, said the band members, was meeting all the people and seeing their reactions to the music.

“When they enjoy the show, it makes us happy -- and we get to meet people from all over the world,” said Sergeant Taylor.

“Playing for deployed U.S. and NATO troops was an honor we will never forget,” said Sergeant Dublino.