Free musical performance honoring Tuskegee Airmen

  • Published
  • Air Combat Command Public Affairs
LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. --  A free and open to the public musical performance by the U.S. Air Force Heritage of America Band honoring Tuskegee Airmen is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. on Feb. 10 at the American Theatre in Hampton, Va.

"We know our audience will love it, not only for the wonderful music, but the amazing story that inspired it," said Tech. Sgt. Anne Epperly, U.S. Air Force Heritage of America Band, noncommissioned officer in charge of the Langley Winds chamber group. "The innovation we learned from the Tuskegee Airmen lives on today within all parts of our Air Force."

The performance titled, "Angels with Red Tails" written specifically for the six-person Langley Winds, was inspired by retired Lt. Col. Charles W. Dryden, a Tuskegee Airman and uncle-in-law to the piece's composer, Brian DuFord.

"His story has always been a source of awe and reflection," said DuFord. "So, writing for the Langley Winds tied it all together - bringing the past into the present."

The musical work includes descriptive passages detailing the historical account of the Tuskegee Airmen, including their initial hopes and dreams toward joining the war effort, their rigorous training, hard work and sacrifices.

Further information on all upcoming performances is available on the band's website, www.heritageofamericaband.af.mil  or Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/heritageofamericaband