NFL Recognizes Coast Guardsmen at Football Games
Oct 31, 2012
U.S. Coast Guard
by PAC Kyle Niemi
Major American professional sports teams have long found ways to recognize military servicemembers at their events. In the 9th Coast Guard District, Great Lakes athletes and teams are often acknowledging the service and sacrifice of area Coast Guardsmen.
From throwing the first pitch at a Cleveland Indians baseball game, to dropping the puck at a Lake Erie Monsters hockey game, to being recognized at an annual invitational golf tournament in Akron, Ohio, the sporting public gets their fair share of opportunities to “cheer-cheer” for their Coast Guard.
Recently, Coast Guardsmen assigned to the 9th District were recognized at two different NFL football game in less than one week.
Rear Adm. Mike Parks, commander of the 9th Coast Guard District in Cleveland, was honored at the Monday Night Football game between the Chicago Bears and the Detroit Lions, Oct. 22, at Soldier Field in Chicago. The following Sunday, Oct. 28, 12 Coast Guardsmen were honored at the Cleveland Brown’s Stadium during a Hats Off to Our Heroes event during the Browns’ game against the San Diego Chargers.
Parks was selected by the United Service Organizations of Illinois, which has had a partnership with the Bears for the past 10 years. The USO serves as the conduit for selecting military members to participate in the “Bears/Boeing Military Salute.”
read more here
Showing posts with label USO. Show all posts
Showing posts with label USO. Show all posts
Thursday, November 1, 2012
Tuesday, September 18, 2012
Lt. Dan Band plays to crowds aboard Camp Lejeune
Lt. Dan Band plays to crowds aboard Camp Lejeune
September 17, 2012
AMBERLY POZZI
The Daily News of Jacksonville
It was the third time Katheryn Walsh had been to a USO concert at Camp Lejeune that featured actor Gary Sinise and the Lt. Dan Band, and she hopes it’s not her last.
“They’re wonderful,” said Walsh, a retired gunnery sergeant. “Gary Sinise and the Lt. Dan Band support the Marines and all of the service members. I’m here to show my support for someone who shows support of the services.”
Sinise and the Lt. Dan Band visited troops and their families aboard Camp Lejeune Sunday and played a variety of cover tunes during the afternoon concert that netted a crowd of about 2,500.
The actor, who currently stars in CSI: NY, and his 12-member band, named for the memorable character Sinise played in the movie “Forrest Gump,” have been touring with the USO over the past year, with their final show at W.P.T. Hill Field.
“We’re here for the military. We play a variety of songs, most of them everybody knows,” said Sinise. “There’s a lot of stress on our military. I wanted to provide them with something fun, show my support and appreciation, and let them know they’re not being taken for granted.”
read more here
September 17, 2012
AMBERLY POZZI
The Daily News of Jacksonville
It was the third time Katheryn Walsh had been to a USO concert at Camp Lejeune that featured actor Gary Sinise and the Lt. Dan Band, and she hopes it’s not her last.
“They’re wonderful,” said Walsh, a retired gunnery sergeant. “Gary Sinise and the Lt. Dan Band support the Marines and all of the service members. I’m here to show my support for someone who shows support of the services.”
Sinise and the Lt. Dan Band visited troops and their families aboard Camp Lejeune Sunday and played a variety of cover tunes during the afternoon concert that netted a crowd of about 2,500.
The actor, who currently stars in CSI: NY, and his 12-member band, named for the memorable character Sinise played in the movie “Forrest Gump,” have been touring with the USO over the past year, with their final show at W.P.T. Hill Field.
“We’re here for the military. We play a variety of songs, most of them everybody knows,” said Sinise. “There’s a lot of stress on our military. I wanted to provide them with something fun, show my support and appreciation, and let them know they’re not being taken for granted.”
read more here
Tuesday, July 3, 2012
Cleveland Browns' Seneca Wallace USO Tour
Pretty good shooting from a football player and not a cameraman!
Greetings again from The NOC!
I want to pass along a new feature on the recent USO tour of The Cleveland Browns' Seneca Wallace. Wallace video documented his four-day stint in Kuwait, after which he sat down with The NOC to talk about the experience and narrative his footage.
The piece that emerged is unique in its perspective and fascinating in its access; it's a meditation on opportunity and responsibility that speaks to the tremendous sacrifice made by our troops abroad. We'd love you to consider sharing it with your readers.
Might make for a nice 4th of July feature.
Thursday, June 7, 2012
Fort Bliss Retired Master Sgt. Not Silent About Combat PTSD
No longer suffering in silence
Veteran spreads message of healing invisible wounds
Fort Bliss Monitor
Sgt. Robert Larson
24th Press Camp Headquarters
Many servicemembers come back for their deployments with visible wounds. Some have scars from the shrapnel that ripped through their bodies. Many have lost limbs or other body parts as a result of their service in Iraq or Afghanistan. But there are many more who come home with injuries that cannot be seen, “invisible wounds” that also need healing and support.
One of the many Soldiers who came back from down range with these invisible wounds is retired Master Sgt. Mike Martinez, an El Paso native and spokesperson for the United Service Organizations’ new Portraits campaign, a series of public service announcements designed to educate Americans on post-traumatic stress and traumatic brain injuries.
Martinez was deployed to Iraq three times during his military career, the first coming in 1990 shortly after joining the Army. The third and final time was in 2007, when an improvised explosive device ripped his vehicle in half. This was the second time Martinez, a first sergeant at the time, had been involved in an IED attack. This time his injures put him on a flight home.
read more here
Veteran spreads message of healing invisible wounds
Fort Bliss Monitor
Sgt. Robert Larson
24th Press Camp Headquarters
Retired Army Master Sgt. Mike Martinez and his wife Maria conduct an interview with a reporter from Univision May 30 at the USO Caregivers Conference at Fort Sam Houston, Texas. Martinez was recognized at the conference for his volunteer efforts working with the USO to educate the public about post traumatic stress and traumatic brain injuries. Photo by Mark Matson, USO.
Many servicemembers come back for their deployments with visible wounds. Some have scars from the shrapnel that ripped through their bodies. Many have lost limbs or other body parts as a result of their service in Iraq or Afghanistan. But there are many more who come home with injuries that cannot be seen, “invisible wounds” that also need healing and support.
One of the many Soldiers who came back from down range with these invisible wounds is retired Master Sgt. Mike Martinez, an El Paso native and spokesperson for the United Service Organizations’ new Portraits campaign, a series of public service announcements designed to educate Americans on post-traumatic stress and traumatic brain injuries.
Martinez was deployed to Iraq three times during his military career, the first coming in 1990 shortly after joining the Army. The third and final time was in 2007, when an improvised explosive device ripped his vehicle in half. This was the second time Martinez, a first sergeant at the time, had been involved in an IED attack. This time his injures put him on a flight home.
read more here
Thursday, April 26, 2012
'Take the warrior mask off...get help' for PTSD
Latino soldier to fellow troops:
'Take the warrior mask off...get help'
April 25th, 2012
By Sonya Hamasaki,
CNN Los Angeles
(CNN) - When Army Master Sergeant Mike Martinez arrived in Saudi Arabia for his first assignment 22 years ago, he knew his experience in the infantry would make him “real tough, tough like nails.” But little did he know back then just how much those words would resonate now, in his new role as a voice for the invisible wounds of war.
Martinez, 42, shared his story in the USO’s first Invisible Wounds public service announcement to address post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injuries - the masked wounds encountered by many of the 300,000 troops returning home. He’s on a mission to educate Latino troops, in particular, whom he says are likely to feel a cultural stigma surrounding mental health treatment.
“I tell my Hispanic brothers that are still serving, don’t let pride get in the way," Martinez said. "Pride’s going to kill you. Take that warrior mask off and if you need to, get help. Get it in the beginning stages, and not later.”
Even veterans seeking help might not be getting a quick response from those who would care for them, according to an report released by the U.S. Office of Veterans Affairs this week. While the number of former service members seeking mental health care increased by 39% from 2005 to 2010, according to the Veterans Health Administration, the agency hasn't been meetings its goals to evaluate them within 24 hours and begin treatment within two weeks.
read more here
'Take the warrior mask off...get help'
April 25th, 2012
Editor's note: Overseas, they fight for freedom. In America, they fight for jobs. “Voters In America: Vets Wanted?” is the first part of CNN In America's documentary series on American voters. J.R. Martinez narrates the documentary airing at 8 p.m. and 11 p.m. ET May 13 on CNN.
By Sonya Hamasaki,
CNN Los Angeles
(CNN) - When Army Master Sergeant Mike Martinez arrived in Saudi Arabia for his first assignment 22 years ago, he knew his experience in the infantry would make him “real tough, tough like nails.” But little did he know back then just how much those words would resonate now, in his new role as a voice for the invisible wounds of war.
Martinez, 42, shared his story in the USO’s first Invisible Wounds public service announcement to address post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injuries - the masked wounds encountered by many of the 300,000 troops returning home. He’s on a mission to educate Latino troops, in particular, whom he says are likely to feel a cultural stigma surrounding mental health treatment.
“I tell my Hispanic brothers that are still serving, don’t let pride get in the way," Martinez said. "Pride’s going to kill you. Take that warrior mask off and if you need to, get help. Get it in the beginning stages, and not later.”
Even veterans seeking help might not be getting a quick response from those who would care for them, according to an report released by the U.S. Office of Veterans Affairs this week. While the number of former service members seeking mental health care increased by 39% from 2005 to 2010, according to the Veterans Health Administration, the agency hasn't been meetings its goals to evaluate them within 24 hours and begin treatment within two weeks.
read more here
Saturday, March 24, 2012
Couple's pillows offer troops comfort
Between Iraq and a soft place: Couple's pillows offer troops comfort
by JIM DOUGLAS
WFAA
Posted on March 23, 2012
COLLEYVILLE - In the dining room of a fine home in Colleyville, bolts of fabric lean in corners and colorful neck pillow patterns cover the table waiting to be sewn. Some are western with cowboys and cattle. Some have zebra stripes.
Dianna Titel's sewing machine rattles like a machine gun for hours as she puts them together.
Every day. Stitching pillows in the dining room. Stuffing in the den. Packing in the sun room. Enough to outfit two full divisions.
"Close to 50,000," she said. "Maybe more. Give or take."
That's right - 50,000 pillows. It's all give and no take.
read more here
by JIM DOUGLAS
WFAA
Posted on March 23, 2012
COLLEYVILLE - In the dining room of a fine home in Colleyville, bolts of fabric lean in corners and colorful neck pillow patterns cover the table waiting to be sewn. Some are western with cowboys and cattle. Some have zebra stripes.
Dianna Titel's sewing machine rattles like a machine gun for hours as she puts them together.
Every day. Stitching pillows in the dining room. Stuffing in the den. Packing in the sun room. Enough to outfit two full divisions.
"Close to 50,000," she said. "Maybe more. Give or take."
That's right - 50,000 pillows. It's all give and no take.
read more here
Sunday, March 18, 2012
Vietnam homecoming at Charlotte Motor Speedway
Veterans get free tickets for Vietnam homecoming at Charlotte Motor Speedway
Mar 18, 2012
Only about 4,000 free tickets remain for the Vietnam Veterans Homecoming Celebration at Charlotte Motor Speedway on March 31.
"We'll always have tickets for the veterans," said Ginny McCabe, a spokeswoman for the USO-NC.
Entertainment will include the Charlie Daniels Band and George Clinton.
The celebration will honor the more than 216,000 North Carolina residents who served in Vietnam. About 1,600 died in the war.
read more here
Mar 18, 2012
Only about 4,000 free tickets remain for the Vietnam Veterans Homecoming Celebration at Charlotte Motor Speedway on March 31.
"We'll always have tickets for the veterans," said Ginny McCabe, a spokeswoman for the USO-NC.
Entertainment will include the Charlie Daniels Band and George Clinton.
The celebration will honor the more than 216,000 North Carolina residents who served in Vietnam. About 1,600 died in the war.
read more here
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
New USO Public Service Announcement About Combat and PTSD
Military Heroes Talk Candidly About Their Battle with Invisible Wounds in New USO Public Service Announcement
In “Portraits,” the USO’s first PSA on invisible wounds of war, Americans learn how post traumatic stress and traumatic brain injury impacts lives and are called on to take action
Arlington, VA (PRWEB) January 23, 2012
Right now, across the United States, an estimated 300,000 American service men and women live with invisible wounds of war – known familiarly as post traumatic stress (PTS), depression and traumatic brain injury (TBI). As more troops return home, many more are expected to be diagnosed.
At home, these service members and their families now fight an intensely private war against despair, depression, and anxiety. In an effort to bring awareness to psychological and cognitive injuries, the USO has launched its first-ever Public Service Announcement (PSA) on the invisible wounds of war.
“Portraits” is a documentary style PSA that features service members who proudly answered the call to duty in Iraq and Afghanistan, and now live with invisible wounds. Service members speak candidly, and sometimes emotionally, about how these invisible wounds have changed their lives forever and ask Americans to take action.
“I never thought I would have PTSD. I thought I had enough coping skills.”- SGT Philip Romero's, Iraq 2005/2007
“It’s like a pressure cooker and you know, you want someone desperately to trip that valve- you know, lose all of that anger and angst.”- Capt Eric Thomas, Iraq 2003/2004
“Now I have such bad issues with it that I’m being released from the Army. I’m being medically retired from the Army because I can’t sleep, because I can’t function on a daily basis in the Army anymore.”- SSGT Jessica Paul, Iraq 2006
“Get educated. Don’t brush this aside and don’t count us out.”- MSGT Mike Martinez, Iraq 1990/2004
read more here
In “Portraits,” the USO’s first PSA on invisible wounds of war, Americans learn how post traumatic stress and traumatic brain injury impacts lives and are called on to take action
Arlington, VA (PRWEB) January 23, 2012
Right now, across the United States, an estimated 300,000 American service men and women live with invisible wounds of war – known familiarly as post traumatic stress (PTS), depression and traumatic brain injury (TBI). As more troops return home, many more are expected to be diagnosed.
At home, these service members and their families now fight an intensely private war against despair, depression, and anxiety. In an effort to bring awareness to psychological and cognitive injuries, the USO has launched its first-ever Public Service Announcement (PSA) on the invisible wounds of war.
“Portraits” is a documentary style PSA that features service members who proudly answered the call to duty in Iraq and Afghanistan, and now live with invisible wounds. Service members speak candidly, and sometimes emotionally, about how these invisible wounds have changed their lives forever and ask Americans to take action.
“I never thought I would have PTSD. I thought I had enough coping skills.”- SGT Philip Romero's, Iraq 2005/2007
“It’s like a pressure cooker and you know, you want someone desperately to trip that valve- you know, lose all of that anger and angst.”- Capt Eric Thomas, Iraq 2003/2004
“Now I have such bad issues with it that I’m being released from the Army. I’m being medically retired from the Army because I can’t sleep, because I can’t function on a daily basis in the Army anymore.”- SSGT Jessica Paul, Iraq 2006
“Get educated. Don’t brush this aside and don’t count us out.”- MSGT Mike Martinez, Iraq 1990/2004
read more here
Monday, September 26, 2011
Still in the Fight
Mike Corrado - Still in the Fight (live at Camp Lejeune, NC USO w/Gary Sinise & Lt Dan Band)
Mike Corrado performing "Still in the Fight" a tribute to wounded warriors aboard Camp Lejeune, NC Saturday, September 17. The show was sponsored by the USO and MCCS where Mike opened for Gary Sinise and the Lt Dan Band. The studio version of Still in the Fight is available on iTunes and other major download retailers and proceeds benefit USO Wounded Warrior Family Centers. For more information please visit Mike Corrado.com and Facebook Corradomusic
Mike Corrado performing "Still in the Fight" a tribute to wounded warriors aboard Camp Lejeune, NC Saturday, September 17. The show was sponsored by the USO and MCCS where Mike opened for Gary Sinise and the Lt Dan Band. The studio version of Still in the Fight is available on iTunes and other major download retailers and proceeds benefit USO Wounded Warrior Family Centers. For more information please visit Mike Corrado.com and Facebook Corradomusic
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Conference for families of wounded warriors
Conference for families of wounded warriors
by Staff Report
On September 14 and 15, the USO is hosting its 2nd Annual Wounded Warrior and Caregivers Conference in Fayetteville and Ft. Bragg.
At the event, experts, along with military personnel and couples will highlight several newsworthy topics, including major challenges facing our military, their caregivers and the children of deployed and wounded troops. Many of these challenges like suicide and depression are seen most when troops return home to their families. Troops will be withdrawn from Iraq and Afghanistan in the coming months and years, makes the Wounded Warrior and Caregivers Conference even timelier.
Wounded Warrior and Caregiver’s Conference is a two-day event focusing on the issues facing our nation’s wounded warriors and their caregivers (i.e., a spouse, significant other, mom or dad). The event will cover topics such as post-traumatic stress, compassion fatigue, parenting and children’s grief, and suicide prevention. The conference is free and open to caregivers and wounded warriors from Fort Bragg’s Warrior Transition Unit and Camp Lejeune’s Wounded Warrior Regiment.
The Caregiver’s Conference will be held on Sept. 14 at the Doubletree Hotel and Conference Center in Fayetteville, and the Wounded Warriors Conference will be held the next day at the Bragg Club on Fort Bragg.
There will be more than 400 Caregivers in attendance, as well as Wounded Warriors, and featured presenters Sloan Gibson, USO President; John Pray, USO Senior Vice President Entertainment and Programs; Dr. Kim Norman, Health Sciences Clinical Professor of Psychiatry, University of California; Melissa Lofaso, Director of Suicide Prevention & Education, TAPS; Trevor Romain, the Trevor Romain Foundation and Game On Entertainment.
read more here
by Staff Report
On September 14 and 15, the USO is hosting its 2nd Annual Wounded Warrior and Caregivers Conference in Fayetteville and Ft. Bragg.
At the event, experts, along with military personnel and couples will highlight several newsworthy topics, including major challenges facing our military, their caregivers and the children of deployed and wounded troops. Many of these challenges like suicide and depression are seen most when troops return home to their families. Troops will be withdrawn from Iraq and Afghanistan in the coming months and years, makes the Wounded Warrior and Caregivers Conference even timelier.
Wounded Warrior and Caregiver’s Conference is a two-day event focusing on the issues facing our nation’s wounded warriors and their caregivers (i.e., a spouse, significant other, mom or dad). The event will cover topics such as post-traumatic stress, compassion fatigue, parenting and children’s grief, and suicide prevention. The conference is free and open to caregivers and wounded warriors from Fort Bragg’s Warrior Transition Unit and Camp Lejeune’s Wounded Warrior Regiment.
The Caregiver’s Conference will be held on Sept. 14 at the Doubletree Hotel and Conference Center in Fayetteville, and the Wounded Warriors Conference will be held the next day at the Bragg Club on Fort Bragg.
There will be more than 400 Caregivers in attendance, as well as Wounded Warriors, and featured presenters Sloan Gibson, USO President; John Pray, USO Senior Vice President Entertainment and Programs; Dr. Kim Norman, Health Sciences Clinical Professor of Psychiatry, University of California; Melissa Lofaso, Director of Suicide Prevention & Education, TAPS; Trevor Romain, the Trevor Romain Foundation and Game On Entertainment.
read more here
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Operation Thriller, USO Authors' Tour
November 23, 2010
Operation Thriller: Real Life 'Rambo'
David Morrell
USO Authors’ Tour
Kuwait/Iraq 2010
“We joined the army because of your novel and the movie,” two wounded soldiers told me at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. The novel and movie they referred to are First Blood, in which the character of Rambo was created.
“Which means that I bear a responsibility for your being in this hospital,” I told them.
“Not at all,” they answered. “Bad guys planted an IED that blew us up. You didn’t do that. We joined the military for the same reason Rambo did—to help our country. We’re not as badly injured as some of the guys here. We leave the hospital in a couple of weeks, and we want to go back to our unit.”
Whatever I expected at the start of the first-ever USO authors’ tour, it wasn’t a conversation like that. Our journey took us to bases in Kuwait and Iraq, where our group (the other authors were Steve Berry, Andy Harp, Douglas Preston, and James Rollins) emphasized that we wrote made-up action while the troops experienced the real thing, and all we could hope is that our inventions helped to distract them from reality.
read more here
Operation Thriller
Monday, August 23, 2010
USO Helps Troops With PTSD Symptoms
USO Helps Troops With PTSD Symptoms
Daniel Novick-KFOX News Weekend Anchor/Reporter
Posted: 4:42 pm MDT August 20, 2010
EL PASO, Texas -- Soldiers and post traumatic stress disorder. It's a problem that has only gotten worse as troops have been at war for much of the last decade, and now some of those soldiers could be getting help from the USO.
The USO has a unique relationship with troops, as they see many of them everyday, but not for training, combat or other daily duties. Many soldiers and their families told KFOX they are an extended family for soldiers, providing an array of services.
USO officials said it's that unique relationship that has opened the door for USO staffers and volunteers to help troops deal with their PTSD.
read more here
http://www.kfoxtv.com/news/24706306/detail.html
Daniel Novick-KFOX News Weekend Anchor/Reporter
Posted: 4:42 pm MDT August 20, 2010
EL PASO, Texas -- Soldiers and post traumatic stress disorder. It's a problem that has only gotten worse as troops have been at war for much of the last decade, and now some of those soldiers could be getting help from the USO.
The USO has a unique relationship with troops, as they see many of them everyday, but not for training, combat or other daily duties. Many soldiers and their families told KFOX they are an extended family for soldiers, providing an array of services.
USO officials said it's that unique relationship that has opened the door for USO staffers and volunteers to help troops deal with their PTSD.
read more here
http://www.kfoxtv.com/news/24706306/detail.html
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
4TROOPS to Perform USO Concert LIVE Online
4TROOPS to Perform USO Concert LIVE Online
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 28, 2010
Contact:
Sharee Posey, (703) 740-4980
http://www.blogger.com/
4TROOPS to Perform USO Concert LIVE Online With Help From Stickam
The 30-Minute Show to be Featured on USO.org
WHAT: USO Concert Featuring 4TROOPS
WHEN: July 2, 2010 2:00 p.m. EST
WHERE: New York, NYhttp://www.blogger.com/ (Courtesy of stickam.com)
WHY: 4TROOPS, a new vocal group of U.S. combat veterans signed to Sony Masterworks, will perform a 30-minute USO concert live from New York City on July 2, 2010, at 2:00 pm EST. Broadcast exclusively online the concert is being streamed with the help of Stickam, an industry leader in online multimedia communications services. During the concert, 4TROOPS will answer questions from fans, share their thoughts on what it means to serve our nation and reflect on their USO experiences. Fans will be able to view the concert live and submit advance questions for the group online via http://www.uso.org/.
Each member of the group served on the front lines in Iraq and Afghanistan, and is on a mission to give back to troops. Their self-titled debut album was released May 11, and a portion of the proceeds will benefit the USO and other organizations that support U.S. soldiers, veterans and their families. Most recently, the quartet has made appearances on “Good Morning America,” “The View,” “CNN,” “Nightline” and “Larry King Live,” among other prominent news programs. Their PBS special “4TROOPS: Live From the Intrepid” is currently airing on PBS stations nationwide and this fall the group will embark on a 50-city national tour.
This is the first-ever USO concert available exclusively on the web.
If you watched America's Got Talent last year, you would have heard the beautiful voice of Sgt. Daniel Jens. I really wanted him to win! This group is really good and even better is they are all veterans.
Former Sgt. Daniel Jens, a native of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, was attracted to becoming a musician/singer after seeing Elvis and The Beatles perform and hearing the adoring screams of their female fans. He was inspired to join the Army and serve his country after the events of 9/11. In October of 2007 he deployed to Iraq with the 1st Cavalry Division as a crew member of the Field Artillery Cannon. Jens sang at everything from Prayer Breakfasts to Talent Nights at the U.S. Embassy. Upon his return, Daniel went on to become one of the top twenty acts in season three of America’s Got Talent.
Former Cpt. Meredith Melcher spent four years in the Army as an officer in the Medical Service Corps where she was deployed in support of the first Operation Iraqi Freedom. While on the front lines of Iraq her ambulance platoon successfully evacuated hundreds of injured Americans and Iraqis to higher levels of medical treatment. Upon her return, she was cast in the 2004 U.S. Army Soldier Show and performed for audiences of military personnel and civilians worldwide.
Staff Sgt. (Ret.) Ron Henry retired from the Army after a twenty-year military career; his last seven years were spent traveling unprotected roads in Iraq in the dangerous position of Transporter and Transportation Manager. Influenced by Gospel music, Ron delivered stellar performances in the first season of Military Idol, a show that featured military contestants in the popular American Idol format. He went on to lead the successful Army singing group “Transportation Express,” lifting the morale of those families whose military parents were serving multiple deployments back to back.
Former Sgt. David Clemo – who was in Basic Training, getting his first ID on 9/11 – initially deployed to Afghanistan where he provided communications support for major logistics and fire bases. His second deployment, from November 2004, was as a team chief for communications and fiber optic cable installations in Iraq. Following that, David spent a number of fulfilling years as Assistant Director of the U.S. Army Soldier Show, touring and entertaining his fellow soldiers and their families.
http://www.4troopsmusic.com/biography
Monday, June 8, 2009
Stephen Colbert gets scalped in Iraq
Stephen Colbert high-fives a serviceman after submitting to a military-style haircut in Iraq on Sunday.
In Iraq, Colbert gets military haircut to show his solidarity
Story Highlights
Stephen Colbert tapes first of four shows he'll produce in Iraq this week
Comedian tells guest, the imposing Gen. Ray Odierno, it's like "interviewing Shrek"
At President Obama's taped orders, Odierno cuts Colbert's hair to wild cheering
Sunday show to be televised on the Comedy Central network Monday night
From Jomana Karadsheh
CNN
CAMP VICTORY, Iraq -- Stephen Colbert left no doubt about his solidarity with American troops when he taped the first of four Comedy Central shows he'll produce in Iraq this week.
Colbert, wearing a business suit made of the same camouflaged material used for soldiers' desert uniforms, submitted to a regulation military haircut as hundreds of U.S. troops cheered wildly Sunday.
The comedian, who satirizes conservative TV pundits on his "Colbert Report," began his "Operation Iraqi Stephen: Going Commando" USO tour Sunday in the Baghdad headquarters of the U.S.-led military coalition in Iraq.
"It must be nice in Iraq, because some of you keep coming back again and again," Colbert said, joking about the multiple tour many troops have had in Iraq since the 2003 invasion. Some troops had accumulated enough frequent flyer miles to earn them a free ticket to Afghanistan, he joked.
go here for more
http://www.cnn.com/2009/WORLD/meast/06/07/colbert.iraq/index.html
Friday, June 5, 2009
Operation Iraqi Stephen: Going Commando
Stephen Colbert lands in Iraq for new shows
Fri Jun 5, 2009
LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - Making a surprise visit to Iraq is not just for presidents anymore.
Comedian Stephen Colbert has landed in the battle-scarred country to broadcast four episodes of his TV show, "The Colbert Report," which spoofs U.S. politics and culture.
Cable television network Comedy Central on Friday said "The Colbert Report" will be broadcast from Iraq Monday through Thursday (June 8 - June 11) under the banner "Operation Iraqi Stephen: Going Commando."
go here for more
Stephen Colbert lands in Iraq for new shows
Fri Jun 5, 2009
LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - Making a surprise visit to Iraq is not just for presidents anymore.
Comedian Stephen Colbert has landed in the battle-scarred country to broadcast four episodes of his TV show, "The Colbert Report," which spoofs U.S. politics and culture.
Cable television network Comedy Central on Friday said "The Colbert Report" will be broadcast from Iraq Monday through Thursday (June 8 - June 11) under the banner "Operation Iraqi Stephen: Going Commando."
go here for more
Stephen Colbert lands in Iraq for new shows
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Toby Keith: More celebs should visit troops
Toby Keith: More celebs should visit troops
By: Jeff Dufour and Kiki Ryan
Examiner Columnist
04/21/09 4:22 PM
Country superstar Toby Keith will leave D.C. for Afghanistan on Tuesday night to add to the 100-plus USO shows he’s played throughout the past seven years. But at the National Press Club earlier in the day, Keith lamented that more celebrities don’t make similar trips to back the troops.
He said when they’re being paid to make movies, few stars want to leave “Disneyland” and “go to a war zone.”
Not that the danger isn’t real. “I’ve raced Marines to a bunker when the sirens go off,” he said. “It took me 100 shows to learn to trust how good our guys really are.”
But “you don’t have to go to a war zone,” he implored any celebs who were listening. “Go to Walter Reed Hospital.”
go here for more
Toby Keith: More celebs should visit troops
By: Jeff Dufour and Kiki Ryan
Examiner Columnist
04/21/09 4:22 PM
Country superstar Toby Keith will leave D.C. for Afghanistan on Tuesday night to add to the 100-plus USO shows he’s played throughout the past seven years. But at the National Press Club earlier in the day, Keith lamented that more celebrities don’t make similar trips to back the troops.
He said when they’re being paid to make movies, few stars want to leave “Disneyland” and “go to a war zone.”
Not that the danger isn’t real. “I’ve raced Marines to a bunker when the sirens go off,” he said. “It took me 100 shows to learn to trust how good our guys really are.”
But “you don’t have to go to a war zone,” he implored any celebs who were listening. “Go to Walter Reed Hospital.”
go here for more
Toby Keith: More celebs should visit troops
Monday, March 23, 2009
Al "soon to be senator" Franken to receive award for USO service
1/10th Mountain Division Soldiers, Spc. Chanelle Mikel, solder left, and 1st Lt. Shirley Zisen, both of 10th Brigade Support Battalion, talk with comedian Al Franken Dec. 21. Franken and other celebrities visited the troops in the Riva Ridge Moral Welfare and Recreation center a few days before Christmas. Stars and Stripes
Last update: March 23, 2009 - 12:59 PM
Franken to receive award for USO service
WASHINGTON -- Al Franken, still embroiled in a U.S. Senate recount battle with Norm Coleman, will travel to the nation's capital this week to pick up a volunteer award for his lengthy USO service.
click link for more
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Memories of Maggie—Martha Raye: A Legend Spanning Three Wars
Saturday 29 November 2008
9:00-10:00 AM Eastern
http://www.veteransradio.net/
Since just before World War II, the USO has been the bridge between the American people and our men and women in uniform, conveying the heartfelt appreciation and support of a grateful nation. Whether it is a quiet place to go for rest and relaxation, movies, refreshments, or a friendly face, the USO delivers its special brand of service to the military.
For over 67 years the USO has been there for us.
Join Veterans Radio and our guest John Hanson, Senior Vice President, Marketing and Communications as we talk about some of the history and stories of the USO.
9:00-10:00 AM Eastern
http://www.veteransradio.net/
Since just before World War II, the USO has been the bridge between the American people and our men and women in uniform, conveying the heartfelt appreciation and support of a grateful nation. Whether it is a quiet place to go for rest and relaxation, movies, refreshments, or a friendly face, the USO delivers its special brand of service to the military.
For over 67 years the USO has been there for us.
Join Veterans Radio and our guest John Hanson, Senior Vice President, Marketing and Communications as we talk about some of the history and stories of the USO.
One of the best known and loved performers on the USO circuit for over fifty years was Martha Raye. From the deserts of North Africa to the jungles of Vietnam , Martha(Maggie)Raye entertained America’s finest.
Join our guest Noonie Fortin, retired Army Reserve First Sergeant, and author of Memories of Maggie—Martha Raye: A Legend Spanning Three Wars. Did you know that “Maggie” was an honorary member of the Special Forces. She received her cherished Green Beret and title of Lieutenant Colonel from President Lyndon Johnson? And that she was buried with special permission at Ft. Bragg?
Tune in Saturday morning to learn more about this incredible American heroine.
Call us with your USO or Martha Raye story at 877-573-7825
Tune in Saturday morning on
WDEO (990-AM Ann Arbor/Detroit),
WMAX (1440-AM, Saginaw),
WDEO-FM (99.5 FM, Naples, FL),
KAGY (1510-AM Port Sulphur / New Orleans, LA),
KIXW (960-AM, Apple Valley CA) and
KMRC (1430-AM Morgan City, LA)…
…or, at http://www.veteransradio.net/
Saturday, July 5, 2008
Boston:USS Bataan Navy sailors get a star-spangled salute
Navy sailors get a star-spangled salute
USO fetes Bataan crew in North End
By Tania deLuzuriaga
Globe Staff / July 5, 2008
The men and women stationed on the USS Bataan couldn't celebrate Independence Day with their own families yesterday, but the volunteers of the United Service Organizations New England wanted them to feel at home nonetheless.
The USO hosted the crew, along with local active and reserve military personnel from every branch, at its annual Fourth of July celebration at the US Coast Guard base in the North End.
In a flag ceremony during the event, Jean Eastman, the USO's executive director for New England, thanked the service members present for their service.
"We owe you more than thanks," she said. "You exemplify what it means to be Americans."
As "America the Beautiful" and "The Star Spangled Banner" were sung, an honor guard silently unfolded and refolded a soot-covered American flag that flew at the World Trade Center when it was attacked on Sept. 11, 2001.
For Commander Brenda Bradley Davila, the chaplain on the USS Bataan, the opportunity to see the birthplace of the American Revolution "put the meat on the bones" of history.
click post title for more
USO fetes Bataan crew in North End
By Tania deLuzuriaga
Globe Staff / July 5, 2008
The men and women stationed on the USS Bataan couldn't celebrate Independence Day with their own families yesterday, but the volunteers of the United Service Organizations New England wanted them to feel at home nonetheless.
The USO hosted the crew, along with local active and reserve military personnel from every branch, at its annual Fourth of July celebration at the US Coast Guard base in the North End.
In a flag ceremony during the event, Jean Eastman, the USO's executive director for New England, thanked the service members present for their service.
"We owe you more than thanks," she said. "You exemplify what it means to be Americans."
As "America the Beautiful" and "The Star Spangled Banner" were sung, an honor guard silently unfolded and refolded a soot-covered American flag that flew at the World Trade Center when it was attacked on Sept. 11, 2001.
For Commander Brenda Bradley Davila, the chaplain on the USS Bataan, the opportunity to see the birthplace of the American Revolution "put the meat on the bones" of history.
click post title for more
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)