RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE, Texas –
A San Antonio band featuring a Randolph Air Force Base electronic warfare officer instructor who recently won a Department of Defense-level grand prize in an original songwriting contest was recently approved to tour overseas and entertain troops.
The Armed Forces Entertainment Program -- a week after an application was filed -- accepted "The Black Doves," a four-person rock group featuring Capt. Steve Wilson of the 563rd Flying Training Squadron.
"We submitted an electronic press kit with pictures, information about our playing experiences and some of our music," Captain Wilson said. "We heard back very quickly."
Captain Wilson, who entered the DoD's "Songs From the Soul of Service" original songwriting contest, wrote the winning song -- "Ask Me To" -- about his relationship with his wife, Elizabeth. It took first place in the pop/rock category and also went on to win the overall grand prize.
The captain, who will attend a press conference in Dallas on Aug. 30 for contest winners, said the next step for the group before touring for the AFEP is to be requested for a specific overseas tour on behalf of the organization or the USO.