Posted on 09/23/2006 8:01:08 PM PDT by naturalman1975
SOME of Australia's top entertainers have angered the Federal Government by refusing to perform for Australian troops in Iraq for political reasons.
The Whitlams' Tim Freedman is among a group of artists who have knocked back requests to play for Diggers because they don't support the war.
"I was asked, and decided not to go," Freedman told The Sunday Telegraph. "I went to East Timor and enjoyed the experience. I understand how hard the soldiers do it. In this instance, I don't agree with the war."
Murray said while he supported the troops he did not back the war, and would not accept an invitation to perform in Iraq. The stance has been backed by veteran entertainer Col Joye, who sang for troops in Vietnam.
The Forces Advisory Council on Entertainment (FACE) is scouring the country for musical acts to perform in Iraq this Christmas.
In the past, troops have been entertained by various unknowns and B-grade celebrities, including Australian Idol contestant Lee Harding and model Bessie Bardot.
Defence Minister Brendan Nelson said he was disappointed by political responses to the Defence Force's requests.
"Musicians should be able to separate the politics (of going to war) with the sacrifice being made by troops serving in Iraq," he told The Sunday Telegraph. "You can disagree with the political decision, but also support the people who are doing the job."
FACE secretary Lt Col Charles Reynolds said while it was rare for a musical performer to decline an invitation, it should not be done for political reasons.
(Excerpt) Read more at news.com.au ...
Wow, I haven't thought about Midnight Oil in ages. I used to like this one:
I don't know all the politics behind this song, but it sounds pretty liberal to me now. Still a catchy tune though.
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