MILLINGTON, Tenn. – Petty Officer 1st Class Kathryn Dobyns performed “The Star-Spangled Banner” during a Navy flyover prior to the 2025 MLB Speedway Classic, where the Atlanta Braves took on the Cincinnati Reds at Bristol Motor Speedway in Bristol, Tennessee.
 |
| Photo by Musician 1st Class April Enos |
Dobyns, a native of Fredericksburg, Virginia, is one of many U.S. service members who participated in the MLB Speedway Classic and was ready to have this opportunity to open the event.
“I’m very excited,” Dobyns said prior to her performance. “There is never a time when you’re not nervous, but you meet the challenge head-on and it makes for a more compelling performance.”
Dobyns is a 2016 graduate of Massaponax High School and earned a bachelor’s degree in music with a concentration in music theatre from James Madison University in 2020.
The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Fredericksburg.
“Growing up, I struggled with a speech impediment and ADHD that made me value finding my voice and working hard to pursue my passions,” Dobyns said. “Music and theatre helped me do that and offered me a place where I could thrive despite my differences. My family and early mentors taught me that no matter the obstacle, only you get to decide what will stand in the way of your dreams. That drive and ambition continues to empower me in the Navy at every level.”
Dobyns joined the Navy two years ago. Today, she serves as a musician assigned to the U.S. Navy Band, stationed in Washington, D.C., where she regularly performs at the White House.
“In 2023, I decided to audition for the Navy Band Sea Chanters chorus,” Dobyns said. “I wanted to join the Navy because I wanted to make a difference as a musician. Singing with a purpose, with an intent to make lasting connections at home between Americans and their Navy and promote diplomacy abroad was an opportunity I couldn’t ignore.”
The historic event marked the first official National or American League baseball game to be played in the state of Tennessee, according to Major League Baseball officials. The flyover formation included the F/A-18 Super Hornet, a combat-ready strike fighter designed to face the advanced threats of the 21st Century, according to Navy officials.
 |
| Photo by Musician 1st Class April Enos |
“This was not just an event honoring our Navy and its 250th birthday,” Dobyns said. “It is also important to the local community because of all it can do for them, and I’m proud to have been a part of it.”
According to Navy officials, “America is a maritime nation and for 250 years, America’s Warfighting Navy has sailed the globe in defense of freedom.”
With 90% of global commerce traveling by sea and access to the internet relying on the security of undersea fiber optic cables, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity of the United States is directly linked to recruiting and retaining talented people from across the rich fabric of America.
Dobyns has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.
“One of my proudest moments during my Navy career was being selected to perform a solo for President Biden’s farewell gala in November 2024,” Dobyns said. “Performing for our world leaders and representing the Navy was a nerve-wracking yet rewarding experience that will stay with me for the rest of my life.”
Dobyns serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation’s prosperity and security.
Dobyns can take pride in serving America through military service.
“Serving as a musician in the Navy holds a special place in my heart,” Dobyns said. “In every performance, we represent the tireless efforts of sailors serving around the world. Their sacrifice and commitment are never forgotten, and our purpose is to tell their stories.”
Dobyns is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.
“I wouldn’t be here without my family, friends and teachers who have cheered me on every step of the way,” Dobyns said. “They have been my rock through every chapter, always encouraging me to welcome challenges and grow from mistakes. I also want to thank my unit and command, the United States Navy Band and the Sea Chanters chorus in Washington, D.C. I am constantly learning from the expertise and skill all around me.”