Heartland of America Band wishes Ellsworth `Merry Christmas'

  • Published
  • By Airman Ashley J. Woolridge
  • 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. --  Members of the Heartland of America Band brought Christmas cheer to Ellsworth Airmen, civilians and children during a caroling visit, Dec. 18 to 19.

Four members of the band visited several locations on base as part of what has become an annual initiative to give back to service members during the Christmas season.

Tech. Sgt. Jason Millott, the group's assistant NCO in charge and alto saxophone player, said Ellsworth was one of the group's many stops during its tour.

"This year we've already been to Minot (AFB, N.D.), Grand Forks (AFB, N.D.), Cavalier Air Force Station (N.D.), McConnell (AFB, Kan.), F.E. Warren (AFB, Wyo.) and Malmstrom (AFB, Mont.)," said Millott.

The group also featured an acoustic guitar, played by Master Sgt. Gary Olson, the quartet's NCO in charge. He said bases are visited by varying musical ensembles to ensure every stateside active-duty base can enjoy the experience.

"We handle an eight-state region," Olson said about his foursome's area of responsibility. "We're splitting up groups, and maybe it's a brass quintet or maybe it's a brass quartet, or maybe it's a group like you're seeing here."

Personnel in the 28th Bomb Wing headquarters, Rushmore Center, Child Development Center and Base Operations buildings - among others - were able to sing along with carols including "Jingle Bells," "We Wish You a Merry Christmas," "Dashing Through the Snow" and "Up on the Rooftop."

Senior Airman Brandon Stout, 28th Civil Engineer Squadron Fire Department driver operator, said what he loved most about the band's visit to the base firehouse wasn't what they sang, but the spirit in which they did it.

"My favorite part was just the fact that they came out and sang for us," Stout said. "It's nice, especially for those that aren't home for the holidays and don't have any family around."

In addition to a saxophone and guitar, the quartet featured a cajon - a Peruvian box drum - played by Senior Airman Gary Steinberg, group percussionist, and Airman 1st Class Paula Kynard, group lead vocalist.

The four entertainers not only performed for Airmen, but also encouraged them to join in. Many audience members were able to play a set of jingle bells, as well as click drum sticks together during "Old Saint Nick." Millott said when Airmen participate it enhances the experience.

"The best part is seeing some of the reactions and people's facial expressions," Millott said. "Whatever's going on in their life or at work, we take them away from that just for a moment and they can relax and enjoy themselves."

The nature of military life demands that at least a few holidays be spent away from friends and loved ones, but Stout said the traditions he and his fellow firefighters celebrate together help to pass the time. He is thankful for the added Christmas spirit the band brought to Ellsworth.

"Here at the firehouse, we usually have a big dinner," Stout explained. "Those who are off duty will have a big dinner at someone's house. It brings you together - closer as a family. It lets you know that you're not alone and there are people here to support you."

Olson added he and his fellow band members are happy to do what their part in making the season a little more bright for men and women who do so much for others.

"These guys are doing some serious heavy lifting for the Air Force and for people," Olson said. "This is just one way we can pay people back. You can't help but smile when you get jingle bells going."