Local Airman makes it to the big show

  • Published
  • By Ian Carrier
  • 482nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs
HOMESTEAD AIR RESERVE BASE, Fla. --  One of Homestead Air Reserve Base's own is among the newest members of the prestigious Tops In Blue entertainment unit.

Master Sgt. Robert Clark, 482nd Operations Group first sergeant, earned his spot with the troupe after attending the Air Force Worldwide Talent Search competition at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, where finalists competed in January.  Clark received official notification on Feb. 16, that he made the team after placing second in the vocal self-accompanied category.

Master Sgt. Clark, an Elkhart, Ind., native, was active with music during his school years. After graduating high school, he released a contemporary Christian album. After joining the Air Force in 1992, Sergeant Clark competed as an E-3 for a spot in Tops In Blue and made it as far as the finals, but was not selected for the unit. Later he performed on a Korean television show while stationed overseas.

After straying from music for a while, Clark found it again while deployed to Qatar in 2006. After returning home, he began playing at clubs, weddings, and military retirements. Inspired again by music, he decided to send a tape of his performance to Tops In Blue.

Master Sgt. Clark will soon be on his way to Lackland to begin two months of rigorous rehearsal, before embarking on a world tour of this years show theme: "We Believe".

"I love being a first sergeant, playing music, and I love the Air Force; so this is a great combination," said Clark.  "I am proud to be a member of the 93rd (Fighter Squadron).  I feel in a way that by leaving, I am letting them down, but I know they know what a big deal this is. I greatly appreciate the opportunity they gave me."

Sergeant Clark added, that he feels that being part of Tops In Blue is helping with Brig. Gen. William Binger's mission to "Put Homestead back on the map."

Tops In Blue produces a revue-style show that showcases the most talented Airmen the Air Force has to offer. According to their website, the unit has to date, traveled over four million miles to military bases throughout the world, performed at six World Fairs, over 100 state fairs and festivals, and performed at countless air shows, military balls and special events.

Master Sgt. Clark is the first Air Force Reserve first sergeant ever selected for Tops In Blue.