Tops in Blue is one of the best kept secrets of the US military troops.  While America watches young talent compete for prizes on tv talent shows, airmen stationed around the world audition for a one-year gig performing at bases free of charge. No record deals. Nearly no press. And when the year is up the sequined gowns are traded back for neatly pressed 'blues' and days (or nights) spent loading planes, sorting mail, or repairing engines. 

Today was a big day. Allen took Moira, Aidan, and Kieran to London.  They returned and within moments Alannah, Moira, and I got into the other car with the little girls to see the concert on base like we do every year we can.  We missed last year and Tess was too little remember ever having seen the show. She loved it.  Abbie loved the first half.  Despite the music and flashing lights she was out cold an hour in. 

At some point in armed forces shows you can count on hearing Lee Greenwood.  And, particularly if you are overseas, you can count on people standing right up, a little misty. Or a lot. 

There are no Democrats or Republicans in uniform.  Just Americans.