A note of patriotism Published May 11, 2011 By Airman 1st Class Jose L. Hernandez Minot Air Force Base Public Affairs MINOT, N.D. -- Playing popular armed forces tunes and medleys, the United States Air Force's Heartland of America Band performed for hundreds of community members at the Minot Municipal Auditorium in downtown Minot May 4. Based at Offutt Air Force Base, Neb., the band was on a scheduled tour around the Dakotas, with a presentation in Minot being just one of several stops along the region. The band currently performs more than 450 concerts annually, playing in nearby towns including Bismarck and Jamestown. In his opening remarks at the concert, Air Force Global Strike Command's, Col. Michael Dilda, 5th Mission Support Group commander, said it was truly an honor and a privilege to welcome a band of such talented Airmen to Minot. "I have had the opportunity to hear the band play in several performances throughout various venues," said Colonel Dilda. "They are all very capable in what they do, in terms of both performing and operating in their respective career fields." He explained band performers are volunteers who dedicate their time to travel the Midwest and perform at various locations. "All of them are remarkable individuals who are very proficient members of the Air Force," said the colonel. "If need be, they can deploy overseas as well." He added several of them have also achieved higher levels of degrees in various educational programs, which is always encouraged and it proves what a great group of accomplished performers they are. Second Lt. Daniel Booth, Heartland of America Band guest conductor, said the musicians he was in charge of leading, are some of the world's finest and they always perform to the best of their ability. "Each concert is a great experience because they all play their best and trust each other in the process so that all turns out a success," said Lieutenant Booth. He said one of the most challenging parts of being a conductor was finding the ideal blend between leading musicians and leaving room for them to lead themselves. "They are all professionals and look to me for leadership," said Lieutenant Booth. "But at the same time, I want them to take full ownership of their experience as musicians." Overall, he said it was great to collaborate with professionals of this caliber in completing the mission of supporting Airmen morale, aiding recruiting and retention, as well as community and educational outreach. Performer, Airman 1st Class Timothy Schleinat, Heartland of America Band trumpet player said he cherished playing for the band and couldn't be prouder to be a part of it. "I have been playing for trumpet since I was 12 years old," he said. "It is very rewarding to tour and play for war veterans and community members; playing is definitely an enjoyable and worthwhile experience."