One experience, two words a lifetime of influence

  • Published
  • By Chief Master Sgt. Elizabeth Campeau
  • U.S. Air Force Band marketing and outreach manager
BOLLING AIR FORCE BASE, D.C. (AFPN) --  I was about 15 when the U.S. Navy Band came to town. A few local high school students were invited to "sit-in" for one selection during the concert, and I was one of them. It was a warm spring night and the auditorium was packed. 

When the time came for us to perform with the band, the emcee announced our names one by one as we took our places in the ensemble. It was thrilling to share the stage with all those professionals. But best of all, during the applause, the military musician sitting to my left leaned over and said "good job." Though I didn't know it at the time, those two kind words would have a lifelong impact.
 
Fast forward three decades. Today I serve as the marketing and outreach director for the U.S. Air Force Band. Without a doubt, the best part of the job is reading letters from young musicians. 

Recently, I received a note from a young flutist in Michigan who'd listened to one of our recordings. She wrote: "It's (the compact disc) called Imagine the Possibilities and I do." She went on to say that she had just celebrated her 12th birthday and, "When I grow up, I wish to be in the Air Force Band." 

I immediately remembered the kindness of that Navy musician all those years ago and quickly dispatched a reply full of encouraging words. I probably won't be around long enough to find out if this young person will follow her dream to become a member of the U.S. Air Force Band, but I'm sure she'll carry a fondness for the Air Force far into her future. 

Studies have shown the earlier a child is exposed to an idea, the more likely they are to carry the influence, positive or negative, with them throughout their lives. My experience with the Navy musician is one of my fondest memories. I'm certain it influenced my decision to follow a career in military music. 

I have heard the phrase "good job" countless times during my lifetime. Those two words of encouragement, reinforced with the image of a military uniform, are the ones I remember most clearly. Never take for granted the power of your words and actions, especially in uniform. 

Think about the last time you interacted with young people. What message did you send in that snapshot of time? Let's hope it was a positive one. Chances are, the impression you made was an indelible one.