JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. –
It takes more than courage to sing for a group of people you don't know, and more than nerve to be able to do it well enough to win them over. Not everyone is gifted with a voice that could bring an audience to tears. Joint Team Andrews has such a member.
Airman 1st Class Jamie Jarman, 316th Civil Engineer Squadron emergency management specialist, sang her way to the finals of the Operation Rising Star competition, and came out with third place.
Airman Jarman first entered the competition while in technical school at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo. She hadn't even planned to enter the competition.
"I saw posters around Fort Leonard Wood and it seemed like a talent show," said Airman Jarman. "At the time, I just sort of shrugged it off."
With the influence of friends, Airman Jarman made the commitment to enter the Operation Rising Star competition.
"A few friends came to me and said 'You should do it,'" she said.
Once she placed first at Fort Leonard Wood, Airman Jarman moved on to the semi-finals, and her first duty station - Joint Base Andrews.
The prestige of an Andrews assignment as a start to entering the Air Force was exhilarating for this newly-graduated Airman.
"I was really excited to join Team Andrews because it is a presidential base and we have a different mission that makes us unique," said Airman Jarman.
Joint Team Andrews members welcomed this Airman further by supporting her competition endeavor.
"A lot of members from my squadron came out to the competition to support me and a lot of members helped by voting for me," said Airman Jarman, "I felt a lot of support."
Her performance in the competition as well as on a daily basis has identified her as an excellent addition to Joint Team Andrews.
"She has been very professional since she came to this squadron and has represented the U.S. Air Force to the highest standard," said Staff Sgt. Jontae Wallace, 316 CES readiness and emergency management craftsman and Airman Jarman's supervisor, "Her performance as a CE member is completely outstanding."
As for the future of Airman Jarman, she hopes to continue serving in the Air Force and utilizing her incredible talents.
"I sent away a package to audition for the Tops in Blue," said Airman Jarman.
Sergeant Wallace is completely confident in his Airman's abilities and also sees a bright future for Airman Jarman.
"I think the sky's the limit for Airman Jarman," said Sergeant Wallace. "She can do anything with her upbeat attitude and shining personality."
Airman Jarman embodies excellence both in the present and for the future of Joint Team Andrews.