Here comes the music

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Greydon Furstenau
  • 42nd Air Base Wing

For a period, Maxwell Air Force Base experienced a noticeable absence of music at its events, leaving many to feel the void. However, this changed in 2022 when Senior Airman Victor Guzman stepped up to fill the role of DJ, bringing much-needed energy and enthusiasm to base activities.

Senior Airman Victor Guzman, a passenger travel technician, was approached by his senior enlisted leader to become the base DJ for the Senior Noncommissioned Officer Academy. With prior DJ experience before joining the Air Force, Guzman eagerly accepted the responsibility.

“We coordinate and tailor the music to the people during these events. The feedback from SNCOA was amazing,” Guzman said. “It was impactful to me, and it reignited my old hustle and career. Then it just never stopped, with one event after another. That’s one event I’ll never forget.”

Guzman’s initiative marked the beginning of a vibrant musical presence at Maxwell, but he isn’t the only member from the Travel Management Office who DJs. Staff Sgt. Kevin Liverpool, the passenger travel noncommissioned officer in charge, is set to take over the DJ responsibilities when Guzman moves on. Both Guzman and Liverpool hail from New York, bringing their unique styles and experiences to the base.

“Being an airman or NCO comes with numerous responsibilities that never stop. I use DJing to detox and manage stress,” said Liverpool. “I stopped for a while but then when I came to Maxwell and saw the DJ scene with Guzman I picked it back up. So, it turned into a passionate hustle.

Together, Guzman and Liverpool have provided Maxwell AFB with a diverse selection of music tailored to enhance morale at various events. After his initial performance, Guzman was frequently requested to DJ more events, gradually becoming the go-to DJ across the base. When Liverpool joined, they began sharing duties and collaborating on larger events, including the 2024 Beyond the Horizon Air and Space Show.

A significant aspect of their role extends beyond merely playing music. They focus on creating a personalized experience that elevates the overall atmosphere and boosts morale. Their military background enables them to understand the base culture and adapt their DJ skills to fit seamlessly into different events. Instead of just attending, they actively participate, making each event more engaging and memorable.

Reflecting on their goals for the base and its events, Guzman stated, “We are just trying to create events, make them more community-based and more active for the young airmen.”

Looking ahead, Guzman and Liverpool are planning to introduce additional morale-boosting events at the Maxwell club, such as Latin nights and hip-hop nights. These events aim to foster camaraderie and bring the lively spirit of overseas postings to the base, enhancing the overall community experience for all airmen.

As Guzman and Liverpool continue to bring their unique talents to Maxwell Air Force Base, their influence extends far beyond the music. Their efforts have not only revitalized events but also fostered a stronger sense of community and camaraderie among airmen. With plans for new, vibrant events on the horizon, their commitment to enhancing morale ensures that the base’s spirit will keep resonating for years to come.