How to Book an Air National Guard Band

The Air National Guard bands provide musical support to the United States Air Force and the National Guard. By request, they're available for civilian, military and government sponsored events to promote patriotism and preservation of the ideals America was founded upon. Read on to learn how to book an Air National Guard band.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Contact the Air National Guard band closest to the event to confirm their availability during the necessary time frame. Visit Air Force Link to locate the band closest to your vicinity.

2. Obtain a current Request for Armed Forces Participation in Public Events Form DD2536. This is the official form used by civilian sponsors to request the participation and services of all armed services in public events. Obtain it from the band, public affairs office or locate it on the Socom website, where you can download and print it off to complete.

3. Be certain to complete all sections of the request form carefully. Read all requirements and review for accuracy, making sure that no question has been left blank.

4. Locate the correct Geographic Area of Responsibility (GAR) office closest to the event, or the appropriate military service. Visit the Pentagon site and chose "print" from the upper left printer icon and submit the form no less than 30 days, and no more than 90 days before the event.

5. Await confirmation and the decision to arrive within two weeks following the request, at which time proceed coordination with the Air National Guard Band.

Tips & Warnings

• There is a slightly different process for military and government sponsors. Military sponsors must submit an "Official Memorandum Request" to the closest Air Force base, while government sponsors must submit an "Official Letter" to the band that serving the events geographical area.
• Keep in mind that requests are granted only when the event does not interfere with military training and/or missions, and when it is in the best interested of the Department of Defense to do so. Additionally, all approvals are subject to cancellation due to the operational needs of the military.
• If help is needed completing the request, contact the specific band or the office of Public Affairs.
• Bands begin planning their tours up to a year in advance so it is best to plan ahead and submit the request early.

Resources

• Locate an Air National Guard Band
• Contact the Office of Public Affairs