The U.S. military’s top-ranking officer visited U.S. and coalition troops in Southwest Asia to thank them for their contributions to the war on terror.

Marine Gen. Peter Pace also treated the troops to a USO show and re-enlist three members during his Dec. 28 visit.

General Pace kicked off a weeklong trip where he thanked hundreds of troops gathered under a tent at the desert base's Memorial Plaza, said Capt. Eric Badger, public affairs officer for the 379th Air Expeditionary Wing.

The past year has been an "incredible one of progress in the war on terrorism, and it's because of you," news reports quoted Pace as telling the assembled Airmen, Soldiers, Sailors, Marines and coalition troops.

"He told us how well everyone here is doing and how important everyone is (to the overall mission)," Captain Badger said. "It felt really good to hear it, and it reinforced that what we're doing here is worthwhile."

General Pace issued the oath of re-enlistment to three wing Airmen: Tech. Sgt. Shannon Midgette and Senior Airmen Brian Davis and Bradley Evans.

Retired Army Col. Jack Jacobs, who received the Medal of Honor for heroism during the Vietnam War, shared stories of his own deployments and compared his experiences to what troops are facing today, the captain said.

Mr. Jacobs told the servicemembers to stay focused on their objective, keep their training up to date and to look out for each other.

"Always remember to take care of each other," he said. "Your comrades depend on you."
A USO-sponsored troupe accompanied the chairman to entertain troops with a rousing music and comedy show. They included 2004 American Idol finalist Diana DeGarmo, country music star Michael Peterson and comedian and actor Reggie McFadden.

"Everyone thoroughly enjoyed it. It brought a slice of home for everybody," the captain said. "And it's always a warm feeling to hear people thank you and tell you how proud they are of what you are doing. It's good to hear that you're cared about and loved."

General Pace addressed the group after meeting with Army Gen. John Abizaid, who heads U.S. Central Command, and other senior officials at the command's forward headquarters in Qatar.

(Master Sgt. Stanley Coleman of the 379th Air Expeditionary Wing contributed to this report.)