USO Tour entertains Team Aviano

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Deana M Heitzman
  • 31st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy --  The United Service Organization brought celebrities from the sports, TV and music industries together to entertain and show appreciation to more than 1,200 Team Aviano members during a performance here, Dec. 11.

TV and radio personalities Jep and Willie Robertson, Alison Haislip, and Thomas "Nephew Tommy" Miles; professional athletes Adam LaRoche and Matt Light; and finally, singer and songwriter Bridget Kelly, joined the USO to provide entertainment and holiday cheer for the Annual Chairman's Holiday Tour.

"It is nice to see the stars giving back to the military community for the holidays. The entertainers are always great," said Airman 1st Class Zachary Machuca, 31st Aircraft Maintenance Squadron crew chief. "The energy the talent gives off sets a cheerful mood for service members and their families during the holidays."

Willie and Jep Robertson, "Duck Dynasty" reality TV personalities, expressed their appreciation for the troops and gave Team Aviano a piece of home during their visit.

"We wanted to come out and see the troops to try and lift their spirits during the holidays," said Willie. "Also, we wanted to offer them something to smile about. I enjoyed meeting the people at Aviano and I encourage everybody to stay strong and enjoy Italy."

At the conclusion of the show, the audience had an opportunity to meet and take photos with the performers.

"Because our uncle served almost 25 years in the Army, we thought we should go out and see what the troops are really going through now, especially during the holidays," said Jep. "We love you guys and we're so thankful for what you do."

The USO's holiday troop visit swept across Europe and other countries, including Afghanistan, to provide troops cheer for the holiday season.

For more information about the USO and their programs, visit www.uso.org.