Tops in Blue serenades Airmen

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Janine Thibault
  • 354th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska --  Icemen were treated to the musical prowess of this year's Tops in Blue performers Dec. 9 and 10.

The theater was filled as Airmen and their families attended the Tops in Blue's performance, "Rhythm Nation."

Over the years Tops in Blue has traveled to bases and events around the world, touching Airmen and their families with their music and dance.

The first part of the tour started in the U.S. driving to 48 out of 50 states this year with around 64,000 lbs of equipment. The European portion of the tour took the team to interesting places where they performed for foreign ambassadors. Finally, they moved on to the Pacific Air Forces portion of the tour, and although the list is long, they are not finished yet. Tops in Blue will continue to entertain troops throughout the Christmas season.

During the show, Icemen witnessed the talents of vocalist Airman 1st Class Aimee Grills, one of Eielson's very own, from the 354th Civil Engineer Squadron.

There are many benefits for the performers on the team, achieving dual dreams of entertaining while still serving their country.

"There was the extra incentive of doing what I love and serving my country at the same time," said Grills. "Especially in remote locations like Alaska or Greenland where you don't see a lot of entertainers coming to these locations."

The team works hard to set-up, perform and tear-down their own equipment and get back on the road to reach their next audience.

Grills was pleased to see the support she received from Eielson members.

"It made me really grateful for what I have to come back to after Tops in Blue," said Grills.
"This has been the hardest year of my life and I've learned so much about myself because it tests your character, strength and the emotional and physical part of you," said Grills.

Families cheered and applauded and children danced during the show as they enjoyed the performance. Tops in Blue gave team Eielson a chance to relax and enjoy free holiday entertainment with friends and family.