Reservist participates in Tops in Blue

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Randy LeMay
  • 916th Air Refueling Wing
Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, N.C. --  Members of security forces have a mission of protecting life and property for the Air Force, however one member of the 916th Security Forces Squadron has taken on a second mission of helping spread the Air Force message both near and far.
Senior Airman Starrlett Johnson-Derr, a member of the 916th Security Forces Squadron here, was assigned temporary duty April 2004 to perform with the Air Force’s Tops in Blue. 

A friend suggested that Airman Johnson-Derr audition in November 1999 for the 2000 Tops in Blue tour. She auditioned four times before being selected in April 2004.
Military men and women begin each year competing in talent shows at base level. The most talented are selected to compete at the Air Force Worldwide Talent Contest.
The auditions start with about 200 people worldwide and from that about 30 people were chosen, said Airman Johnson-Derr. 

Each servicemember must have their commander’s approval to allow them to travel with Tops in Blue. Tops in Blue brings 90 minutes of non-stop live entertainment with the best in music, dance and comedy. 

“In the beginning, I was there because my friend had suggested that I go to the audition,” said Airman Johnson-Derr. “Once I got there, I saw the enrichment that it brought to the lives of others and it wasn’t just about me. “It is far more than just an hour and a half show,” she added. 

She performed with Tops in Blue in nearly 170 shows in every state here and in 32 different countries. “We performed at 16 locations in the desert in 18 days,” she said. “All the shows that we did in the desert were amazing. It definitely lifts morale.”
She went on to add, “It’s a unity in itself. It is a team effort and not just singing and dancing.” 

Airman Johnson-Derr explained within the time she was assigned to Tops in Blue, she served as the finance manager and public relations representative. “There are a lot of additional duties and everyone helps in setting up for the performances.”
As a member of the 916th Security Forces Squadron, Airman Johnson-Derr no longer sings and dances; well, at least not on duty. 

In addition to her regular duties in the squadron, she has been assigned as the assistant health monitor. “Now that my tour is over, I will miss it a lot,” added Airman Johnson-Derr. “I have gained experience being an ambassador for the Air Force and the United States.” 

This year’s search for Air Force talent during the Worldwide Talent Contest is scheduled Nov. 6-14 at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas. 

The deadline for entry submission is Oct. 5. For more information about the program, contact Air Force Services Agency, Public Affairs Office; 10100 Reunion Place, Suite 402; San Antonio, Texas 78216-4138; DSN 487-6566 or (210) 652-6566.