Over the next two months, Air Mobility Command will be conducting a search for its next AMC Icon—a title loosely based on the popular television program, American Idol. During the competition, AMC contestants will compete in a vocal competition at their local bases for cash prizes, according to a June 20 release. Top ranked contestants will have the chance to compete for additional cash prices in a command-level contest. In previous years, base finalists traveled to AMC Headquarters at Scott AFB, Ill., for the final live round, but this year, finalists will submit a video performance and “celebrity judges” will decide on the winners. The top three finalists will receive $1,000, $600, and $400, respectively. This year’s competition also will feature a new category for AMC personnel who are not based at or near any AMC host bases, states the release. Those “participants can enter by forwarding a music video showcasing their talents.” Last year’s AMC Icon was 1st Lt. Nicole White, SSgt. Tiry Crane was the runner-up, and third place went to TSgt. Doug Boren.
The Air Force’s Hypersonic Attack Cruise Missile is behind schedule and may significantly overrun its expected cost, which could partially explain why the service is reviving the hypersonic AGM-183 Air-Launched Rapid-Response Weapon.