As the 80's progressed there was a need to reach more locations so TOPS IN BLUE was realigned into two touring units to simultaneously cover Air Force bases worldwide. The popularity and demand for TOPS IN BLUE performances continually grew to include appearances on numerous television programs, Bob Hope Birthday Specials, 4th of July performances and countless other special events. In the early to mid-80's TOPS IN BLUE performed in front of the Washington Monument before an audience of 400,000 for our countries' 4th of July Celebration.

In 1981, TOPS IN BLUE and over 250 volunteers from McGuire AFB, NJ produced the Garden State Bowl half-time show. This exposure brought national attention to the program and was the precursor for the TOPS IN BLUE Super Bowl XIX Half-Time Show in January, 1985.

Literally hundreds of prior TOPS IN BLUE team members and over 1,400 volunteers from Mather AFB, CA and surrounding bases in northern California joined together to execute one of the finest half-time performances ever presented at a Super Bowl.