Band makes impact on deployed members

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Carlos Diaz
  • U.S. Central Command Air Forces Public Affairs
CAMP ALAMO, Afghanistan (AFNEWS) --  Approximately 200 U.S. servicemembers and coalition forces March 30 here were treated to the sounds of Max Impact -- an ensemble of the U.S. Air Force Band from Bolling Air Force Base from Washington, D.C.

The traveling music group has been making its rounds in the deployed area of responsibility and forward operating bases.

The Camp Alamo courtyard here was one of those sites, and the group helped give American warfighters "Spring Break at the Alamo," an evening featuring cuisine prepared and served by coalition forces along with the music from Max Impact. Patriotic table décor and eight national flags waving in the wind set a mood as people laughed, ate and enjoyed a well-deserved break.

"I enjoy doing things that bring a healthy diversion to the people of Camp Alamo," said Navy Lt. Christine Heron, officer-in-charge of Morale, Welfare and Recreation. "It helps bring a sense of normalcy in a combat area," she said.

The atmosphere warmed up even more when Max Impact hit the makeshift wooden stage getting the crowd on its feet. The fans sang along to crowd-favorite tunes.

"We value morale, and this is just a great way to boost it," said Army Sgt. 1st Class Roland Robinson, a drill sergeant for the 95th Division, Detachment 13. He is responsible for mentoring the Afghan National Army's basic training instructors.

The drill sergeant said in reference to his job, he's seen vast improvement in the ANA soldiers who are graduating from basic training.

"Something like this really cheers me up," said Marine Cpl. Charles Gardner of the Regional Security Advisory Command Central. "It reminds me of being home."
 
The band dedicated several songs to U.S. and coalition servicemembers.

"The quality of the band is fantastic," said British Army Maj. Ivor Lopez, an ANA officer candidate school instructor. "Their performance means so much to the people here."

Female vocalist Master Sgt. Regina Coonrod used her singing talents to bring joy to many deployed servicemembers.

"I get a feeling like no other when I perform," the two-year band member said. "This band is designed for morale.

"This isn't just pride in the Air Force or military that I feel, this is pride in my country," she said. "I always ask myself if I'm doing enough, and when I see the audience's response, it's complete validation for me."

When the concert ended, audience members approached the bandsmen and thanked them personally.

"It was nice and special to see everyone coming together and enjoying the camaraderie," said Senior Airman Christina Bueno, a medic assigned to the troop medic clinic at Camp Alamo. 

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