Musical medics: 60th MDOS “Humm Bugs” to debut at Delta Breeze Club

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Austin Delacruz
  • 60th Medical Operations Squadron
TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  Since the beginning of recorded history, medics have played a significant role in the healing of the human body and musicians in the healing of our world through entertainment. From the ranks of the 60th Medical Operations Squadron at David Grant USAF Medical Center emerged eight medic musicians - The Humm Bugs - set to make their musical debut at the Delta Breeze Club Dec. 19 during the 60th Medical Operations Squadron's holiday celebration. 

"I love playing the keyboard. I have played in my church and with some civilian musicians but, I always wanted to come up with a group whose members are from the same professional background or career," explained Tech. Sgt. Paul Sylvester, 60 MDOS Primary Care Clinic NCOIC. "So, I sent out an e-mail soliciting for medics who are musically motivated and willing to become a member of a medic music band. To my surprise, there were seven medic musicians that responded whose talents were waiting to be tapped into -- they can sing and play different musical instruments -- more than enough to form a complete a band. We met for the first time, played as a team and the eight-man band The Humm Bugs were born. " 

"The Air Force has always been a unique organization that fosters camaraderie to strengthen morale and solidify teamwork through the application and practice of the Wingman concept," said Master Sgt. Kory Rivera, 60 MDOS Family Medicine and Pediatric Flight superintendent and bass guitar player. "The successful formation of our band is visible proof that the Wingman concept works both on and off duty. It definitely boosted team spirit, Airmen synergy and harmony amongst us." 

"Our upcoming debut performance is going to bring lots of fun and entertainment for our squadron and our families," explained Staff Sgt. Juan Montoya, NCOIC of the 60 MDOS Medicine Flight's Subspecialty Clinic Administration and lead guitarist. "We will feature a mix genre of classic, grass-root, pop-rock and techno holiday tunes like Elvis Presley's "Blue Christmas," Erasure's "She Won't Be Home for Christmas," Bruce Springsteen's "Santa Claus is Coming to Town," and more." 

As the holiday season approaches, The Humm Bugs are at their peak of rehearsing musical pieces for the upcoming squadron function. Hopeful and energetic to be able to entertain and spread the spirit of the season, and to demonstrate there are hidden talents residing in every medic's deep cell, there is music in the medic.