News

'The Call of Freedom' - A Musical Journey

  • Published
  • By 1st Lt. Matthew Miller
  • 55th Wing Public Affairs
Free and open to the public, "The Call of Freedom," will offer spectators a unique blend of music, theater and the military experience featuring the United States Air Force's Heartland of America Band.

"'The Call of Freedom' will take the audience on a dramatic journey through military history using singing, dancing, dramatic lighting and laser effects, historic and live video, and a custom narration weaving together the storied histories of the United States Air Force and the 55th Wing," said Lt. Col. A. Phillip Waite, Air Force Heartland of America Band commander and conductor.

The military term Tattoo is an English tradition that dates back to the 1600s wherein troops were called home to barracks from the surrounding cities and towns.

In Belgium and the Netherlands drummers were sent into towns at nightfall, and would play until lights-out. Originally, the process was called "doe den tap toe" (in Dutch-turn off the taps), which prompted the innkeepers to stop serving beer to the soldiers.

"The words 'tap toe' evolved into the word 'tattoo,' and this process became more of a show as years passed," said Senior Master Sgt. Douglas Roe, manager for the Heartland of America Band.

The tradition gradually evolved from single drummers to full bands. Now, Tattoos are experienced the world over by a presentation of marching units - bands, precision drill teams and other military units.

"A Tattoo is a way for us to emphasize Air Force traditions; it's a way for us to tell the Air Force story through music," said Staff Sgt. Samuel Greenwell, a musician with the Heartland of America Band.

"Present day military tattoos are known as events focusing on military tradition and history," Sergeant Roe explained. "Our Tattoo involves a retreat ceremony, which pays tribute to the American flag, and provides an historical aspect on past events, present missions and the future of the greatest air force in the history of mankind."

"We've added a number of exciting non-traditional elements to our production," said Colonel Waite, "all of which will help us share the Air Force story in a dramatic and compelling manner."

The gates will open at 3 p.m., and pre-show entertainment is planned to keep the whole experience exciting from arrival to the fireworks display at the end, said Maj. Dennis Shook, 55th Wing Tattoo director.

Spectators will be treated to pre-Tattoo live music, children's activities and food booths.

"Amidst staged drama, ceremonial pageantry and a powerful patriotic ending punctuated by a fireworks extravaganza, audience members will be captivated right up to the last notes we play and sing!" said Colonel Waite.

The day's activities will conclude by 9:15 p.m.
To ensure the safety of all guests, several layers of security will be in place so visitors are encouraged to pack as if they are going to clear airport security - no coolers, backpacks, pocket knives, pets, etc.

The inclement weather date will be Oct. 9. Call (402) 232-8787 for cancellation information.

Know before you go:
55th Wing Military Tattoo

When: Oct. 8
- Gates open at 3 p.m.
- Tattoo begins at 7 p.m.

Where: Base parade grounds

Cost: Free and open to the public

Logistics: Guests should enter the base through the SAC Gate (off Capehart Rd.) They will be directed to free parking. Shuttle busses will transport guests to the event.

What to expect: Guests should plan for security similar to that of an airport. All vehicles and belongings will be subject to search.

What to bring: Lawn chairs and blankets.

What not to bring: Coolers, backpacks, weapons or pets.

Rain date: Oct. 9