Why I do what we do

  • Published
  • By A. Phillip Waite
  • U.S. Air Force Band conductor
BOLLING AIR FORCE BASE, D.C. --  Taking command of the United States Air Force Band on the heels of the Memorial Day weekend was especially sobering and humbling.

As I walked with my mom and dad among the memorials here in Washington and visited the site where my uncle and aunt rest in Arlington National Cemetery, I was reminded of why I do what we do.

Each time we don Air Force blue, we represent those who have served before us and those warriors beside whom we bear arms today.

For me personally, it's my family members who faced combat, serving in the uniforms of the Army, Navy, Marine Corps and the Flying Tigers -- during World War II, Korea and Vietnam. It's also my friend who lost his life eight years ago fighting terrorism, many close friends who continue to be assigned in harm's way, and those who are taking the fight to the enemy.

It's my nephew serving in the area of responsibility as a computer forensic specialist; my son-in-law serving as a special agent in the Air Force Office of Special Investigations; my son serving as a software engineer with a major Defense contractor; and my daughter, who served in the Air Force.

It's heroes like retired Brig. Gen. Robbie Risner, Col. Bud Day, Col. Joe Jackson and the late Brig. Gen. Joe Foss -- all of whom I was privileged to meet, interview and honor through a special musical production.

The memories of these amazing individuals inspire me and resonate at the core of my being as we take the stage together ... touching the heart and mind of every listener through dramatic music and speech in a unique and enduring way.

Truly, it is a privilege to serve as commander and conductor of this national treasure called the U. S. Air Force Band -- a squadron of exceptional musicians who have chosen to become warrior Airmen, dedicated to excellence, selfless service and a mission of inspiring and engaging citizens of the world on behalf of the U.S.