Base auditions anthem singers Published Oct. 3, 2013 By Donovan Jackson 42nd Air Base Wing Public Affairs MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala. - -- The 42nd Air Base Wing special events office held auditions Sept. 26 to determine who would be the best national anthem singers to represent Maxwell. Judges for the audition said they were listening for the person who sang the "The Star-Spangled Banner" "traditionally." "We want traditional singers because we want to preserve the honor and heritage of the song," said Carla Martin, 42nd ABW special events officer. Those who auditioned will receive the opportunity to sing on the base's behalf during special observances, promotional ceremonies, retirement ceremonies and when called upon to sing within Montgomery. Four military members and two civilians were present for the audition. "Singing the national anthem means more to me than I could ever put in words," said Tech. Sgt. Ceressa Rice, special security officer at the LeMay Center. "I have been on quite a few deployments and every time I was deployed, I was made aware of all of the freedoms that we have as Americans. A lot of people take our freedoms for granted, however, I do not. Having the opportunity to sing the national anthem on Maxwell's behalf is a way for me to pay homage to my amazing country." Civilian Valla Bryson, a 42nd Medical Group radiology technician who auditioned, said that the song represents what it means to be an American. "I take a lot of pride in singing the national anthem," Bryson said. "The song represents what it means to be an American through its lyrics and melody. God knows that I am more than proud to be an American." For those still interested in auditioning, call Carla Martin at 953-4220.