JOINT BASE CHARLESTON, S.C. —
The U.S. Air Force Heritage Winds woodwind quintet performed for veterans and local community members at Patriot’s Point, in Mount Pleasant, S.C., June 6, 2019, as a part of a three day tour.
Heritage Winds is a component of the U.S. Air Force Heritage of America Band. The band is dedicated to using the power of music to honor veterans, inspire patriotism, communicate the Air Force story and recruit those who are interested in serving our nation. They performed seven concerts throughout North and South Carolina.
Master Sgt. Christopher Stahl, the band’s resource advisor and bassoonist said their job is to honor, inspire and connect with their audience.
“Today was the perfect example of how we were able to accomplish that mission. I can’t think of a better event to be a part of than the 75th anniversary of D-Day, where we can honor those who sacrificed so much,” said Stahl.
“A lot of the places we go don’t see men and women in uniform so part of what we do is remind them there are Airmen out there fighting for them,” added Tech. Sgt. Kelly Longmire, the band’s NCOIC and Oboe player.
Among the audience members at Patriots Point was a patriot in her own right who makes her best effort to attend every military concert she can when they come to town.
“My father-in-law was in World War II,” said Delores Goodwin, a retired teacher and local community member. “I always come see the military bands when I can because I love the way they honor our veterans like my dad and my father-in-law. I can’t say enough about the hope and peace they bring to people.”
Traveling to seven different venues, Stahl always recognizes one thing when he goes to each one.
“Every venue is so unique, but my favorite part of the tour is never the places,” said Stahl. “It’s the people who wait the entire show to shake your hand and tell you the story they’ve been waiting to tell you since the show started about a family member who served or about how they served. It’s the people, not the places.”
While visiting the Joint Base Charleston community for their three shows, they noticed the unity the locals show with the military.
“The joint base here has such great community support,” said Stahl. “Our commander likes to say everyone’s service is not forgotten, and it’s not just our service or the Airmen at the bases, but also the people in the community.”
