The TOPS IN BLUE tour history is filled with endless stories of great audiences, special shows and new experiences. It did not take long for the high quality entertainment reputation of TOPS IN BLUE to spread. In 1954, Ed Sullivan recognized this talent by inviting TOPS IN BLUE to perform at Mitchell Air Field, NY on his show "Toast of the Town". The now well-known Airman Second Class Jerry Van Dyke led the show as Master of Ceremonies before a viewing audience estimated at 15 million. By 1958, nearly one million Air Force family members had experienced TOPS IN BLUE as the tours visited bases around the world.

From 1958 through 1971, TOPS IN BLUE teams used other forms of entertainment mediums, other than live tours, to entertain Air Force families stationed throughout the world. In 1964, TOPS IN BLUE moved into the movie studio and for the next several years produced films and records for distribution throughout the Air Force. Television productions were taped in 1968 and 1969. But the professional films could not compare to the excitement and far-reaching impact of the live performances.