The Air Force Band of Flight: Where Music Meets Mission

  • Published
  • By Rachael Ferguson
  • 88 ABW/PA
WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio --  

The U.S. Air Force Band of Flight, based at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, is one of just nine bands serving the entire Air Force. Known for their dynamic performances, they appear at more than 200 concerts, ceremonies, and sporting events each year—both throughout the Miami Valley and across Ohio, as well as in seven other states over the past year alone.

This talented nine-member ensemble features a vocalist, drummer, pianist, two guitarists, three brass players, and a sound technician, bringing powerful music and pride to every stage they grace.

When most people think about joining the Air Force, playing in a band isn’t the first thing that comes to mind. For Staff Sgt. Merik Chrisman, now the band’s vocalist, the journey began in an entirely different field—cyber operations. It wasn’t until he learned about the opportunity to audition for the Band of Flight that he made the switch, successfully earning the vocalist role he proudly holds today.

A man, wearing a military camouflage uniform, points a finger to the sky as he holds a microphone to his mouth. Another military member can be seen in the background with a bass guitar, and a blue and white banner that reads Band of Flight in white text

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Marik Chrisman, 88th Air Force Band of Flight lead vocalist, hits a high note at the National Night Out concert at the Fraze Pavilion in Kettering, Ohio, Aug. 5, 2025. The band, stationed at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, held a free concert to thank the local community for their continued support and honor military members and veterans. (U.S. Air Force photo by Daniel Peterson)
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Being a band member is a unique role within the military, and their mission is clear: honor, inspire, and connect.

The band members do this through the unique opportunity of performing at concerts and events in the community, providing the ability to be the voice of the Air Force in unique settings.

Their goal is to honor the veterans, inspire people to serve, and connect the communities with Wright-Patterson AFB and the military.

The Band of Flight receives a steady stream of performance requests, and Mike Richter, Director of Operations, oversees logistics and approvals.

“As the only Air Force band stationed in the Midwest, we face unique challenges in managing resources and the wide range of locations we serve, “ Richter said. He coordinates their schedule, ensuring each performance supports the commander’s mission of fostering strong community connections.

The band performs music of all genres, including classic rock, country, pop, and of course, patriotic music. They also have a mix of their own music.

Master Sgt. Jimmy Hubbard, trombonist, and lead officer for the band said, “In order to prepare for our concert, we started writing our own music.”

When asked about why they love playing in the band, Airman 1st Class David Lara, guitarist said, “My favorite thing about being in the band is that I get to do what I love — playing music — and I also get to do that in the facet of serving my country.”

Like other Air Force assignments, service in the Band of Flight is temporary, with members rotating to different bases and bands throughout their careers.

A man, wearing military camouflage uniform and mirrored sunglasses, plays a off-white bass guitar. Another military member can be seen in the background playing a drum set under a blue and white banner reading Band of Flight in white text

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class David Heyn, 88th Air Force Band of Flight bassist, jams out a solo at the National Night Out concert at the Fraze Pavilion in Kettering, Ohio, Aug. 5, 2025. The band, stationed at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, held a free concert to thank the local community for their continued support and honor military members and veterans. (U.S. Air Force photo by Daniel Peterson)
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The current lineup welcomed several new members just a month ago. After only two weeks of rehearsals, they debuted together on Aug. 5 at the Fraze Pavillion, in Kettering, Ohio, delivering their first performance as a unified ensemble.

Richter said, “The Band of Flight provides a clear demonstration of the excellence of everyone that contributes to the mission of the 88th Air Base Wing.  It’s our duty and honor to share the excellence of the 88th with the community and inspire future generations to join our team.”

From honoring service members at solemn ceremonies to energizing crowds at concerts and sporting events, the Band of Flight brings more than music — they bring connection, pride, and a living reminder of the Air Force’s presence on base and in the community.

With every note, the Band of Flight proves that service can be heard as well as seen.

Follow the Air Force Band of Flight on Facebook (USAF Band of Flight) and Instagram (@bandofflight) to see their latest performances and upcoming events.