Tim McGraw makes time for Reservists

  • Published
  • By Ms. Donna Lea
  • 916th Public Affairs Office
SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. --  Country singer Tim McGraw started off the second concert in a series with the Get 1 Now incentive program in Raleigh, N.C. on July 24.

The program, which generates leads for Air Force Reserve recruiters, is open to all reservists who are willing to fill out a form on the program's Website. Each level, and incentive rewards, depends on how many members' referrals join. At the end of the year the person, throughout the Air Force Reserve, with the most number of accessions or nominations that joins gets a free trip to the annual recruiting banquet. This year the banquet is in Orlando, Fla.

The evening started with Airmen from the 916th Air Refueling Wing, 567th Red Horse Squadron, 414th Fighter Group and 4th Fighter Wing being escorted to a tent for snacks and drinks from Outback Steakhouse. With temperatures in the high 90s the bottles of water and sodas went quick.

Slowly everyone proceeded to the small stage in the tent to wait for Mr. McGraw. Shortly after arriving, Mr. McGraw walked on stage, yelling, "Welcome Air Force Reserve members." A few songs were sung and then questions began.

"Where is Faith?" seemed to be the main question.

"She is in California doing a concert," said Tim.

"Did you come by a tour bus or did you fly?" Asked another Reservist.

"I got my pilot's license a few years ago and I rented an airplane to get here," he said.

One boy was escorted onto the stage after Tim McGraw sang happy birthday to him. His parents then took his picture with the country legend.

In the crowd was Tech. Sgt. Steven Stanton, 77th Air Refueling Squadron boom operator, and his son, Brendan.

"Brendan and I both had a great time. Brendan said it was pretty cool seeing Tim that close. I enjoyed everything and think that the Air Force Reserve has found a way to reward their folks," said Sgt. Stanton.

Once Mr. McGraw left the stage the crowd proceeded to the big stage area to get to either their seats in the reserved or grassy areas, where they could sit on blankets or small beach chairs that they brought.

Love & Theft and Dirks Bentley opened the concert.

Concert-goers were on their feet once Tim arrived on stage and from there on they never sat down. Song after song was sung and every minute was enjoyed by all.

"With the Get 1 Now program doing concerts like this throughout the year, enrollment into the Air Force Reserve will definitely increase," said Tech. Sgt. Brian Mounts, 916th Air Refueling Wing recruiter.