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The twang of Kid Rock’s rendition of “Sweet Home Alabama” echoed through Ramstein’s Hangar 1 Dec. 16 reminding servicemembers of one thing – home.
The United Service Organizations-sponsored tour made their first stop at Ramstein before heading downrange.
In addition to Kid Rock, the event included performances by Kellie Pickler, Lewis Black, Kathleen Madigan, Tichina Arnold and John Bowman.
And who better to start the show off than Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Adm. Mike Mullen, who lauded the efforts of all KMC military members and their families and brought well wishes from the states.
“Happy holidays from all of us in Washington to those of you serving overseas,” Admiral Mullen said.
“The USO has been supporting the military for 67 years, and it’s our honor to be their first stop on this tour,” said Col. Don “Bits” Bacon, 435th Air Base Wing commander.
The concert was highly anticipated throughout the KMC by many servicemembers.
“Everyone looks forward to seeing great performers,” Colonel Bacon said. “These Airmen feel honored and blessed that the American citizens are thinking about their service. I think there’s a sense of gratefulness among our Airmen for being part of the USO itinerary.”
Although not her first time supporting the military, country star Kellie Pickler, who shot to fame on the show “American Idol,” is very grateful for the opportunity to show her appreciation.
“It’s so amazing. My first time being with the USO tour was last December. It was my first trip to Iraq and it was so incredible to be able to bring a little piece of home to you guys,” she said. “It is so rewarding and such a blessing to be able to do the tour.”
While Ramstein was the first stop on the USO tour, this did not stop actor and comedian Lewis Black from holding back, and the crowd could barely contain their laughter.
“I think it’s important that I give something back when all the servicemembers are giving extraordinary amounts,” Mr. Black said.
Not only did the celebrities on the tour feel honored to perform, but thy also acknowledged how hard it was to be away from home during the holidays.
“I used to work at a restaurant, and a bunch of guys that I worked with joined the military. I do the USO tours because I think about them and wherever they ended up. Maybe someone is doing the same thing for them that I am doing here today,” Ms. Madigan said. “It’s a drag to be this far away from home during the holidays, and if I can switch it up a little for the troops, then I have done what I came to do.”
While it was an honor to have the performers at Ramstein, the overall goal of the concert was to give thanks to those serving today – a message that was well received.
“The concert was great. It was pleasant to get out of work early and come to a free concert for servicemembers. It is nice to know that you are appreciated,” said Senior Airman Matthew Risser, 735th Civil Engineer Squadron, whose favorite
performer was Lewis Black.
The USO tour will continue their support for servicemembers in Afghanistan and also has stops in five different
countries to entertain troops downrange.
