Tops in Blue dazzle Great Falls with performance

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Emerald Ralston
  • 341st Space Wing Public Affairs Office
MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. --  Tops in Blue, the Air Force's expeditionary entertainers, stopped by Malmstrom June 15 and performed their show, "Deja Blue," to an audience that nearly filled the arena at the Montana Expo Park. 

Col. Michael Fortney, 341st Space Wing commander, welcomed the audience to open the show, and then the performers took the stage. 

The performance included musical selections from popular movies and singers, as well as extensive dance routines. The event culminated with the performers donning their mess dress apparel and singing "Proud to be an American," the Air Force Song and a musical rendition of the Airman's Creed. 

After the performance, members of Tops in Blue signed autographs, took pictures and shook hands with members of the audience. A dinner provided by volunteers followed, with remarks from some of the local sponsors of the event. 

"Being in Great Falls, we don't get this type of entertainment that often," said Steve Grooms, First Liberty Federal Credit Union CEO. He then thanked them for coming to serve Malmstrom with this kind of performance. 

Another representative from First Liberty, Dimmer Kjelsrud, presented the members of Tops in Blue with stadium cushions. Then Cindy Berg, 341st Services Squadron youth programs director, also presented the group with Montana-style gift bags, including huckleberry taffy and beef jerky. 

Airmen from all walks of the Air Force life came together to perform and provide technical support, including one of Malmstrom's very own, Airman 1st Class Tyler Cruit. 

Airman Cruit is assigned to the 341st Missile Maintenance Squadron as a satellite maintainer. He is serving as the video director for the 2008 Tops in Blue tour. 

While Airman Cruit said he is enjoying his time and the experience, there are many challenges to overcome to be the best. 

"This job is really physically demanding, the hours are long and it's mentally tiring," he said. "You really have to push so hard through the stress and the physical labor to get the show out there." 

Airman Cruit said he got involved simply by reading an e-mail sent out by his first sergeant saying Tops in Blue needed help. 

Having already been educated in broadcasting, he said this was a great way to use his knowledge and gain more hands-on experience. 

"One of the most enjoyable things is learning," he said. "I got to take a concert-style lighting class - things like that. As far as the overall experience, it's still too soon to tell."
Airman Cruit will be with Tops in Blue until early 2009, when the tour is completed.