AMVETS Remembers 'Ambassador of Entertainment to America's Armed Forces'

releases.usnewswire.com/ ^

[chance33_98]

AMVETS Remembers 'Ambassador of Entertainment to America's Armed Forces'

7/28/03 5:13:00 PM

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To: National Desk

Contact: Francesca DiMarco or Richard Flanagan, 301-459-9600, both of AMVETS

WASHINGTON, July 28 /U.S. Newswire/ -- "He really was one of us," said AMVETS National Commander W.G. "Bill" Kilgore of Bob Hope, on learning of the legendary entertainer's death yesterday at 100.

The AMVETS leader went on to praise Hope for "his countless contributions to the morale of our men and women in uniform." Commenting on Hope, who always found time in his storied career to entertain the troops, Kilgore said, "He was a true friend to the GI and will be sorely missed by generations of our military who were entertained by him."

Hope's special relationship with America's service personnel began in May 1941, when he and a group of performers trooped off to March Field in California to do a radio show for airmen stationed there. Seven years later, he started what became a Christmas tradition of entertaining those stationed overseas or hospitalized.

In April 1961, AMVETS bestowed on Hope its highest honor, the Silver Helmet Award, citing his "artistry and selfless devotion" as "ambassador of entertainment to America's Armed Forces."

A leader since 1944 in preserving the freedoms secured by America's Armed Forces, AMVETS provides, not only support for veterans and the active military in procuring their earned entitlements, but also community services that enhance the quality of life for this nation's citizens. Web site: http://www.amvets.org.

[SAMWolf]

Thanks for the post chance33_98.

I'm a Charter memeber of AmVets Post 269 and I know the guys will be sitting around tonight talking about Bob Hope.