Shooting for the stars - C-17 pilot auditions for American Idol

CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. -- Capt. Lyndsey Goodman, an Air Force Reserve C-17 pilot with the 317th Airlift Squadron, recently had the opportunity to live out one of her dreams -- to audition for American Idol. Capt. Goodman was highlighted by the show after her audition. She was one of two military contestants featured on the program this season. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Jeff Kelly)

Shooting for the stars - C-17 pilot auditions for American Idol

Published Jan. 23, 2008
By Capt. Wayne Capps
315th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. -- At first sight, she looks like any other talented performer, bringing her music to patrons lucky enough to catch one of her local singing gigs, but don't let her youthful looks fool you. This nightclub singer also flies a half-million pound airlifter into combat zones in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Capt. Lyndsey Goodman, an Air Force Reserve C-17 pilot with the 317th Airlift Squadron, recently had the opportunity to live out one of her dreams -- to audition for American Idol.

"I wanted to try out for American Idol because I have been singing since I was a little girl, but I have been flying most of my adult life so I never really had the opportunity to go out and audition for something like this," said Captain Goodman. "When I found out they were coming to Charleston, I thought I should give it a shot."

Already, the captain has an extraordinary career handling America's premier airlifter, but her passion for singing afforded her another opportunity - the chance to sing for America's toughest, and most popular judges, Randy, Paula and Simon.

"Auditioning in front of Randy, Paula and Simon, I was probably more nervous that I have been in my entire life. It was really hard to concentrate because of all the cameras," said Captain Goodman. "It was a lot tougher than any check ride I have ever had."

According to American Idol producers, Captain Goodman is one of only two military contestants featured on the show this season. After the grueling audition process, she was eliminated by Simon Cowell, who said he liked her singing but jazz might not be the right format for the show.

"Not making it to L.A., was a little disappointing, but I will still be flying with the Air Force Reserve," said Captain Goodman with a smile.

Col. Tim Wrighton, the 315th Airlift Wing commander, also weighed in on the audition.

"It is great exposure to have one of our finest young pilots featured on America's number one television show," he said. "The strength of our organization comes from our diversity."