Operation Rising Star: Calling All Military Singers!

If you have always had a knack for singing, then you may want to apply for Operation Rising Star! This competition is basically the military version of American Idol.

Here are all the details about the competition:
-First, be sure to check with your local MWR facility for the local deadline for applications and then click here to view a list of upcoming locations. Click here to download the application or stop by your local host facility.
-Contestants must be Active Duty, National Guard or Reserve from any branch of Service, or a family member eighteen years or older with valid military ID card.
-Contestants must compete as a vocalist. Other talents (musician, comedian, dancer, etc.) do not qualify for this competition. -There must be a minimum of four contestants at each participating installation in order for the installation winner to be eligible to move on to the Army-wide finals. Failure to have four eligible contestants will result in the disqualification of the local host site.
-Contestants must be in an amateur status and not perform professionally (i.e. sing in an official capacity for the military or have a current or previously managed recording career). Contestants that have placed in the top twelve of prior Operation Rising Star Finals (formerly known as “Military Idol”) are not eligible to compete. Soldiers currently assigned as a singer to a military performance band are ineligible to participate.
-Check with the participating location for details on music selection and availability of provided music. The admittance of backup singers on the accompaniment is a local decision and you should inquire with the local event coordinator.
-Each performance will consist of one song between 1:30 and 4:30 minutes in length.
-A hand-held microphone will be provided for each round of the competition.

Prizes will be awarded to the 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners at each installation:
1st place $500 and advancement to the Army Wide Finals.
2nd place $250
3rd place $100

Active Duty contestants that advance to the semi-final round of the Operation Rising Star Finals will need Command approval to attend the two week long final scheduled November 7- 22, 2009. Travel, lodging and meal expenses will be provided for the twelve semi-finalists.