Tops in Blue performs for Osan Air Base

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Kristina Overton
  • 51st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea --  A line formed outside the base theater as Osan Air Base's community anxiously waited for the doors to open for the 2012 Tops in Blue Show, "Listen," Nov. 24. The once 625-seat movie theater had been transformed into an illustrious stage adorned with platforms, curtains and brilliantly colored lights. Following the playing of the national anthems, a thin mist of smoke permeated around the stage, and as the crowd silenced and lights dimmed, the show began.

The performers amazed the audience as they gave 90-minutes worth of electrifying talent, which included vocals, crisp dance steps and live instrumentals. The concert featured music from artists such as Whitney Houston, Carrie Underwood, Darius Rucker, Maroon 5 and The Zac Brown Band. As if the show in itself wasn't enough, one of Osan's own members returned as a part of this year's team. Staff Sgt. Robin Elrod, 303rd Intelligence Squadron cryptologic language operator, made the tour as a vocalist and was excited to see her Osan family after months of being on the road.

"I've been a part of Tops in Blue since March of 2012," Elrod said. "Having been stationed here before leaving, it feels awesome to come back and see my work family and be reunited with the people who have been so supportive of me."

Elrod initially found out about the program through a friend who had made the team while she was in her technical training. She said that as soon as she knew that the opportunity to sing and perform was available in the Air Force, she was hooked. Ill-informed about the work ethic of the program, she quickly learned that being a part of the team meant a lot more than just performing.

"If someone asked me if I thought I could work 16 to 18 hour days before, I would have told them they were crazy," Elrod said. "Many people don't know that as members we are our own roadies. On the stage and behind the stage we set up, tear down and are responsible for 64,000 pounds of equipment. Most people think it's just an opportunity to travel, lay on a beach and sing, dance and wear sequins."

The high tempo of the members is seen both on and off the stage. Each member is given additional duties while on the road to ensure the group can function as a self-sustained unit. Elrod is also a part of the lighting crew and works on the front truss, the massive lighting and audio rack used for the show.

"Being in this you learn to get along with a wide array of people," Elrod said. "You live together, work together and eat together every day. It definitely teaches you the kind of person you need to be in order to be a part of a team effort, which translates into the regular Air Force as well."

After the performance, the team was coined by the Colonel Sean M. DeWitt, 51st Fighter Wing vice commander, who stated that it was the best show he had seen on a Tops in Blue stage.

Senior Airman Megan Lewis, 51st Maintenance Squadron aircraft structural maintenance journeymen, was a member Tops in Blue in 2010, and was very proud of the team's performance as well.

"They did an amazing job!," said Lewis "It always brings joy to my heart, even before the show, because I know what blue offers and the level of performance and excellence that goes into each show. They really put it all out there and it makes me proud to see the legacy of the program live on."

Those interested in being a part of next year's expeditionary entertainment unit can apply before Dec. 5 on www.topsinblue.com.