USO tour brings celebrities, cheer to Bagram servicemembers

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. John Jung
  • 455th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs
BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan (AFNS) --  Hundreds of Airmen, Soldiers, Sailors and Marines gathered here Dec. 15, to enjoy a United Service Organizations' Holiday Troop Visit tour featuring country singer and actor Billy Ray Cyrus, tennis pro Anna Kournikova, acclaimed comedian Dave Attell and legendary tennis coach and inspirational speaker Nick Bollettieri.

The celebrities are joining The Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Admiral Mike Mullen and his wife, Deborah Mullen, for an USO-sponsored holiday troop visit as part of a 13-show whirlwind tour to boost the troops' spirits during the holiday season.

Mr. Atell, known for his unique humor on Comedy Central, warmed up the crowd and had them laughing and clapping with his signature comedy before Mrs. Kournikova and Mr. Bollettieri addressed the assembled crowd with inspirational stories.

Both tennis greats thanked all the servicemembers for their sacrifices while deployed in harm's way.

"I am extremely proud and privileged to be here," said Mrs. Kournikova. "Thank you so much to you and your family for all you do. It's just an incredible honor for me to come out and visit you guys and try to spread the holiday spirit. I really hope you enjoy the show."

"There is nothing better than doing shows for you guys," added Mr. Attell, who has been a part of five previous USO shows.

"It is an honor to be here. Thank you for being over here and being our heroes," said Mr. Cyrus before performing several of his most popular songs including 'Achy-Breaky Heart' and the patriotic 'Some Gave All.'

In an interview after the show, Mrs. Mullen wrapped up by saying, "I wish more people [like these celebrities] in the U.S. could come out and see the servicemen and women and the difficult environment that they work and live in. They're far from home and far from their loved ones and families, and being able to come and see them and talk with them, and to see the joy in their faces... it's a privilege that I have, and one that I will keep and treasure as long as I live."