MILWAUKEE –
The United States Air Force Honor Guard
Drill Team and the Air Force's rock band ensemble
Max Impact kicked off a nine-day, seven-city, 10-performance tour across the Midwest to increase public awareness and understanding of the armed forces and the mission of the Air Force.
The team of 17 Airmen from Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling in Washington, D.C., performed June 21 and 22 at the Milwaukee War Memorial as part of the Milwaukee Air & Water Show. While heavy fog covered Lake Michigan both days and prevented the aviation components of the show, the Drill Team performed as scheduled before crowds of hundreds.
Max Impact made its tour debut Monday at Miller Park, home of the Milwaukee Brewers, and joined the Drill Team for a two-part presentation.
The first show of the tour was one to remember, according to Senior Master Sgt. Ryan Carson, lead vocalist for Max Impact.
"It was a great atmosphere at Miller Park and the audience's energy really set us up for success," Carson said.
After the band's pre-game show, Carson performed the National Anthem, followed by the Drill Team's demonstration which included precise routines of rifle throws, exhibition drills and military bearing.
"There was a massive amount of people there by the end of our performance," said Master Sgt. Scott Slindee, Drill Team superintendent.
At the conclusion of the Drill Team's routine, some fans were unable to express their appreciation in words. One man shook Slindee's hand, nearly in tears, expressing his deep appreciation to the Drill Team.
"He was very proud to be an American last night," Slindee said.
After Milwaukee, the Drill Team and rock ensemble will tour Minnesota, South Dakota, Wyoming, and Nebraska.
"This tour is the first of its kind," said Drill Team Flight Commander Capt. Alan Morford. "It's a joint venture with Max Impact and this is teamwork at its finest."
The U.S. Air Force Drill Team is known for its precision, discipline and ability to inspire awe. These Airmen are the top 10 percent of the U.S. Air Force Honor Guard, who travel the country and around the world to showcase drill performances.
During the tour, audiences will see the Air Force's "Ambassadors in Blue" perform professionally choreographed sequences such as weapon maneuvers, precise tosses, and complex weapon exchanges, across various Midwest locations, including Mount Rushmore and Sioux Falls Empire Fairgrounds in South Dakota; Cheyenne Depot Museum in Wyoming; and Brickyard Park in Nebraska.
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