US AFCENT band goes out with a bite

Photo By Tech. Sgt. Shawn Nickel | Tech. Sgt. John Kukan, Air Forces Central Band Starlifter guitarist, plays as solo during the bands dedicated show for the 379th Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron. Prior to the show, the 379th ESFS military working dog flight gave a show of force and explosive detection demonstration at the kennel, which was a first for the entire band and doubled as a training opportunity for the MWDs. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Shawn Nickel/Released)  

AL UDEID AIR BASE, QATAR

08.18.2014

Story by Staff Sgt. Shawn Nickel 

United States Air Forces Central     

AL UDEID AIR BASE, Qatar – The U.S. Air Forces Central Band Starlifter performed one last show during their deployment here in a dedicated exposition for the 379th Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron but not before the defenders gave a performance of their own.

The military working dog flight demonstrated show of force and explosive detection at the kennel, which was a first for the entire band and doubled as a training opportunity for the MWDs.

“We have an opportunity to see a lot of places and thing during our deployment, but it’s not often we get to be the ones in the seats,” said Airman 1st Class Denver Murphy, the bands male vocalist. “This was a first for everyone in the band and was amazing to see.”

Several of the band members were able to don safety equipment and take a bite from the powerful dogs.

“Me and [MWD] Robby just had a connection with our eyes. She was saying, ‘I can’t wait to bite you, I’m so excited,” and I was saying back, ‘I’d be much obliged to let you take bite of me ma’am,” Murphy said with humor.

Even though the band cheered for the MWD demo, the tables were quickly turned for the afternoon gig at the Coalition Compound theater.

“People always love live music,” said Tech. Sgt. Gary Smith, 379th ESFS kennel master. “Also certain songs the band signs provided memories from home back in the states and brought some people out of their shells. Any chance for a boost in morale is a welcome treat.”

During their deployment, Starlifter, deployed from Scott Air Force Base, Illinois, performed 64 missions across nine countries logging at least 9,000 miles to entertain more than 10,000 people. Their mission is to positively promote troop morale, diplomacy and outreach to host nation’s communities.

• Date Taken: 08.18.2014
• Date Posted: 08.19.2014 03:21
• Story ID: 139739
• Location: AL UDEID AIR BASE, QA