Singing Stripes honor Airmen, uphold tradition

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Eunique Stevens
  • 51st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea --  Anyone who likes singing in front of people would most likely enjoy being a part of Osan's Singing Stripes. This volunteer group of enlisted members sings the Korean and U.S. National Anthems during official functions and recreational events, schedule permitting. On average the group performs two to three events each week.

"There are eight members right now but due to operations tempo, members rotate in and out of the group every couple months," said Senior Airman Megan Bender, current member of the group. Osan's group of Singing Stripes has been together for more than five years, but Singing Stripes have been around the Air Force for much longer.

Airman Bender had previous experience with Singing Stripes at her previous base, Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho. "It's a great way to give back to the Air Force, especially when you are honoring Airmen whether it be during their retirement, promotion, or awards ceremony," she said. "I truly believe we are helping to uphold Air Force traditions."

Any enlisted member with a musical background and singing talent can audition for the group. "You don't have to be able to read music, but you must be able to sing in a group in four-part harmony. We teach new members the Korean National Anthem as well, so no one should be discouraged from joining the group," Airman Bender said.

For more information, or to request the Osan Singing Stripes for your event, e-mail Airman Bender at megan.bender@osan.af.mil or attend the group's practice session Thursdays at 7 p.m. at the McPherson Community Center.