Posted on 09/06/2009 1:10:04 PM PDT by SandRat
Stand-up comedian Mike Pace performs for hundreds of U.S. troops at Joint Base Balad, Sept. 4. Pace has been to Iraq three times in the past 12 months to entertain service members. Photo by Sgt. Keith VanKlompenberg, 13th Sustainment Command (Expeditionary).
JOINT BASE BALAD — U.S. service members were treated to a night of good comedy and laughs when the "Comics Ready to Entertain" tour made a stop here, Sept. 4.
Stand-up comedians Scott Kennedy, Mike Pace and Bob Kubota performed for hundreds of grateful Warfighters at the base's east side Morale, Wellness and Recreation center.
Scott Kennedy, who has performed on Comedy Central numerous times, said this was his 33rd trip to Iraq.
"I'm usually at the [Forward Operating Bases] and [Contingency Operating Bases], but I'll never forget my second home at Joint Base Balad," said Kennedy.
"You guys let us be a little part of your brotherhood," he continued.
Kubota, who joked about his short stature and spent time bonding with vertically-challenged Soldiers in the crowd, said he has been visiting service members since 1996, when he performed in Bosnia on a United Service Organization tour.
"Visiting troops has really opened up my world," said Kubota.
The comedians hit on topics close to the hearts of the service members, from the hardships of being separated from loved ones to more trivial annoyances, like being served too much food at the dining facility.
"The crowds here are unlike anywhere else," said Pace.
Pace, on his third tour to Iraq in 12 months, said when he performs for service members, he feels like he's doing more than just comedy; he's doing his own bit of service.
"It's become a second vocation for me," he said.
The audience roared with applause throughout the evening, showing their appreciation for the men who traveled across the globe to entertain them.
"It's a good thing they are doing," said 1st Lt. Kizzie Butts, deputy chief of protocol for the 13th Sustainment Command (Expeditionary).
"It's a good way for them to support the troops, and it definitely builds morale for us," she said.
I'm speechless. That's incredible.
Some entertainers really do care.
Bravo to these guys, stand-up comedians Scott Kennedy, Mike Pace and Bob Kubota, and a thank you!
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