An official website of the United States government
A .mil website belongs to an official U.S. Department of Defense organization in the United States.
A lock (lock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .mil website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

Local Reservist sings, learns merengue in Cuba

  • Published
  • By Capt. Bryan Lewis
  • 315th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. --  A local pilot here recently traded in the flight pattern into Guantanamo Bay Naval Base, Cuba, for an orange patterned gown and time on the ground there in front of a crowd of more than 300. 

Joining Melina Leon, a famous Puerto Rican merengue singer and actress, and the Band of the U.S. Air Force Reserve, Capt. Lyndsey Goodman, a 317th Airlift Squadron pilot, helped entertain U.S. and Puerto Rican service members currently stationed at Gitmo. The show, which was part of the Band of the USAFR's Caribbean Tour 2008, also included an open-to-the-public performance at Fort Buchanan, Puerto Rico, where several thousand people were in attendance. 

"The crowds were amazing," said Captain Goodman. "The people were dancing and going crazy. Just being on stage with Melina was amazing. I've never sang in front of crowds like that before." 

The crowd, however, was something Capt. Goodman would have to get used to while touring the Caribbean. 

"It was funny," she said. "They printed a bunch of 8X10 glossy pictures to sign and all mine were gone. I've never signed anything except my bills." 

In addition to performing, Capt. Goodman was the master of ceremonies allowing her to interact with the crowd more than usual. 

"In Puerto Rico, nine Korean War veterans were in the front row," the Captain said. "I went down and had them teach me merengue." 

The tour not only allowed Capt. Goodman to encourage and entertain thousands of people, but also highlighted her achievements as a performer. 

"This is just another example of the diverse talent we have in this organization," said Col. Tim Wrighton, 315th Airlift Wing commander. "We're blessed to attract this type of individual to our unit." 

Capt. Goodman will continue her dual role as an Air Force pilot and performer at the 50th Anniversary of Alaska Statehood at Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska, this June. During the show, she will open for Wynonna Judd as Alaska celebrates its 50th birthday.