Official Biography

SSgt Backes is originally from St. Cloud, Minnesota. In September 2018, she enlisted in the Marine Corps and reported to recruit training aboard MCRD Parris Island. From there, she completed combat training at SOI East in Camp Gieger, NC. In January 2019, she reported to the Marine Forces Reserve (MFR) Band in New Orleans, LA as a flute instrumentalist. While serving with the MFR Band, she was promoted to Lance Corporal in 2019, Corporal in 2020, and Sergeant in 2021. She performed with the Ceremonial Band, Wind Ensemble, and Woodwind Quintet, as well as performed as a featured soloist on multiple tours across the United States, along with numerous recitals. Additionally, SSgt Backes held the billets of Section Leader, Squad Leader, and Defense Travel System Chief and was recognized as the 2019 MFR Marine of the Year.

In January 2022, SSgt Backes reported to the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing Band in Miramar, CA. While there, she performed with the Ceremonial Band and Wind Ensemble and was again a featured soloist. She also served in the billets of Section Leader, Guide, Defense Travel System Chief, and Barracks NCOIC.

In September 2023, SSgt Backes reported to her current assignment as flute instructor at the Naval School of Music (NAVSOM) in Virginia Beach, VA, where she instructs flute lessons, small ensembles, and remedial conditioning and holds the billets of Unit Readiness Coordinator, Woodwind Branch Head, Lead Command Physical Training Representative, and Operational Stress Control and Readiness Trainer. In 2024, she was promoted to her current rank. While serving at NAVSOM, SSgt Backes was recognized as the 2024 Staff Noncommissioned Officer Marine Musician of the Year and the 2024 Marine Corps Intelligence Schools Instructor of the Year. Additionally, she competed in the 2025 Fittest Instructor Competition aboard Marine Corps Base Quantico.

SSgt Backes holds a BM in Flute Performance and BA in Spanish from Gustavus Adulphus College in Saint Peter, MN. She also studied abroad in Valparaiso, Chile at the Pontificia Universidad Católica Conservatory. SSgt Backes’ personal awards include the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (3), and Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal.