JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. –
The last time Airman 1st Class Jamie Jarman, formerly assigned to the 316th Civil Engineer Squadron as a emergency management specialist, made the front page of the Capital Flyer, she had placed third in a Department of Defense-wide competition for singers, Operation Rising Star.
Today, Airman Jarman is in San Antonio as a member of the Air Force Tops in Blue team.
"After a squadron physical training session and a set of announcements, the commander locked eyes with me and smiled," said Airman Jarman. "I knew right then that I had made it."
Tops in Blue has been highlighting AF talent for generations since its start more that 55 years ago.
Colonel (ret.) Al Reilly created the Air Force Worldwide Talent Contest to recognize talented Airmen in various categories ranging from comedy, drama, vocals, gospel and several others to discover the highest caliber of entertainment and provide it for AF families throughout the world, according to the group's Web site.
The friends Airman Jarman made while she was stationed here at Joint Base Andrews were impacted by the Airman's talent and motivation.
"Her incredible talent speaks for itself," said Staff Sgt. Jontae Wallace, 316th Civil Engineer Squadron readiness and emergency management craftsman and Airman Jarman's former supervisor.
Many other Airmen were drawn to Airman Jarman, including those that she attended technical school with.
"Airman Jarman has an immense passion," said Airman 1st Class Eric Reist, 316 CES readiness and emergency management craftsman. "Above all else, I believe it is her passion, fun spirit, and commitment and dedication that earned her a spot on the Tops in Blue team."
Airman Jarman's time here won't be forgotten by those she impacted as well as herself.
"My unit has been very supportive," said Airman Jarman. "During the Operation Rising Star competition, e-mails went out to my squadron about it and people were voting for me and members from my shop actually came to my shows. I feel so much support from everyone."
As for the future of Airman Jarman, her former team has nothing but high expectations and hopes.
"I think the sky's the limit for Airman Jarman," said Sergeant Wallace when the Airman placed third in the Operation Rising Star competition. "She can do anything with her upbeat attitude and shining personality."
Airman Jarman is ready for the road ahead and all the work that may come with her spot on the team.
"I am fully prepared to earn my spot on the team and to show everyone that I deserve to be here," said Airman Jarman. "I won't take any of it for granted."