Securing our freedom

Members of the U.S. Air Force Band play as a helicopter from the 1st Helicopter Squadron, Andrews Air Force Base, Md., flies over during the Tattoo on Bolling Oct. 6. The Tattoo, themed “Securing Our Freedom,“ was held in conjunction with the 2008 NATO Air Chiefs' Conference, hosted by Gen. Norton A. Schwartz, Air Force chief of staff.

In a tradition that dates back to the 17th century, representatives from the 26 NATO countries gathered for a “Tattoo“ hosted by Gen. Norton A. Schwartz, Air Force Chief of Staff, Oct. 6.

“The NATO Tattoo highlighted incredible teamwork by all Bolling Airmen,“ said Col. Jon A. Roop, 11th Wing commander. “We demonstrated the same precise mission engagement that our NATO allies show throughout Europe. I couldn't be prouder of how our Airmen represented fellow Air Force professionals.“

Titled “Securing Our Freedom,“ proof of solidarity, freedom and security were featured throughout the event. Members of the 1st Helicopter Squadron from Andrews Air Force Base, Md., provided a flyover, with Bolling's Honor Guard Drill Team and Band expertly performing.

“It's always an honor to be a part of something bigger,“ said Airman 1st Class Joel Odegaard, Honor Guard Drill Team. “Tattoos are a remarkable event and not something that everyone gets to experience.“

“Security requires teamwork and was displayed in the precise performance of elements of the Air Force Band, Air Force Honor Guard, 11th Logistics Readiness Squadron, and 11th Security Forces Squadron when these disparate elements performed together, much like when we team with our NATO Allies,“ said Lt. Col. Richard Leatherman, 11th Operations Group.

For freedom and security the Band's Silver Wings and Ceremonial Brass with help from 11th Logistics Readiness Squadron and 11th Security Forces Squadron were escorted to their performance. Members of the Band were driven out to the ceremonial lawn aboard HUMVEEs by 11th LRS, while 11th SFS members demonstrated security protection.

The Band went on to perform “Free,“ “Change the World“ and “Freedom.“

The event ended with Airman from the Honor Guard performing pass and review for Senior NATO Air Chief Conference Representative, Maj. Gen. Ladislav Minarik, Czech Republic, and General Schwartz.