LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. –
Jenna Rockett, daughter of Lt. Col. Kyle Rockett, Air Operations Squadron Delivery Control flight commander and Tina Rockett, won second place for her age group in the 2007 Air Force Family & Teen Talent Program and Commemorative Contest.
"Winning second place in the Teen 16-18 Solo Act category is a big deal because Jenna competed against people from 46 other bases," said Marcus Soriano, the community center program director. "It's something to be proud of."
Jenna Rockett, a junior at Kellam High School in Virginia Beach, competed against vocalists in her age group.
"It all began with the talent show that was held at Langley's Community Center in October 2007," said Mr. Soriano.
The base-level talent show was also for family and teens. All the contestants were reviewed by three judges and videotaped. After filming the talent show, the tape was sent to Air Force Headquarters. From there, judges watched the tapes and selected the winners for each age group.
"Jenna has been singing since the fourth grade," said Tina Rockett. "When she did her first solo at school, I had no idea she could sing," she said.
Jenna found out about the competition from her father, who encouraged her to try out, said Mrs. Rockett.
"I found out about the talent show on short notice, but luckily, I had already been preparing a song for upcoming college auditions," said Jenna.
For the competition Jenna sang the song "Somewhere That's Green" from the musical "Little Shop of Horrors."
"I like this song because it combines acting and singing and is humorous and bittersweet at the same time. It's fun to sing and has a great melody," said Jenna.
Mr. Soriano found out who the winners were Feb. 11 and let Jenna's parents know she had won.
"Jenna was thrilled when she found out she had won in her age group," said Mrs. Rockett.
"It was sweet," said Jenna. "I was performing later that evening in the Miss Kellam competition for my high school and it gave me added confidence; I won 'Most Talented!'"
Jenna was also selected to play the part of Maria in her high school's production of "The Sound of Music" in April.
She wants to major in musical theater, and hopefully drama therapy. "Winning this award gives me so much encouragement," said Jenna.
"Singing is a passion for her, this year has been awesome; her father and I support her in whatever she does with her ability." said Mrs. Rockett.