Team Osan member selected for Tops in Blue

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Michael Battles
  • 51st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea --  What started as one Airman's passion for singing has blossomed into a chance of a lifetime.

Senior Airman Robin Elrod, 303rd Intelligence Squadron, was recently notified by Air Force Entertainment on her selection as a member of Tops in Blue.

TIB is an all active duty unit comprised of talented service members selected for their performing abilities.

"I've been involved in music ever since I can remember -- doing elementary school talent shows and singing in the choir...," Elrod said. "It's always been a part of my life, and it's something I wanted to explore further. I just didn't know what avenue I would be able to do that. I found Tops in Blue, and I knew it was a perfect fit."

For the online audition, Elrod submitted a song titled "My Sweet Song," which earned her a spot in the 2012 Air Force Talent Search competition held at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, Jan. 9 - 16.

During the eight-day competition, participants were not only judged on their vocal and dance talent, but also on their personality, personal interviews and team work.

"Senior Airman Elrod will be a tremendous addition to Tops in Blue," said Lt. Col. Curtis Madeley, 303rd IS commander. "Her professionalism, dedication, and passion for the Air Force and singing make her a perfect ambassador for our Air Force. We are all very excited and proud of her accomplishments, and look forward to seeing her perform with the group."

This is the first time Elrod auditioned for the Air Force's premiere entertainment group. After nearly a month of waiting, the official announcement was made Jan. 31 that Elrod was a TIB cast member.

When asked what she expects from the tour, Elrod said, "I expect very little sleep, a lot of long days, and a lot of work. What I'm really looking forward to is forming friendships and bonds with the rest of the Tops in Blue family."

According to the official website, TIB serves as an expeditionary entertainment unit to provide quality entertainment from within Air Force resources for the Air Force family, with priority to Air Force personnel stationed worldwide at remote and deployed locations while simultaneously promoting community relations, supporting recruiting efforts and serving as ambassadors for the United States of America and the U. S. Air Force.

"The whole program is about giving back to military members, their families and the civilians we fight to defend every day," the female vocalist said. "Just being a part of something that devotes everything members have to giving back; I think is amazing. I can't believe I get to be a part of it."

For a complete list of the 2012 Tops in Blue Cast.