Congressman Press Release

For Immediate Release: June 11, 2008

Cole Recognizes Toby Keith's Commitment to Armed Forces


WASHINGTON – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) introduced a resolution yesterday to honor country music star Toby Keith's commitment to the United States Armed Forces. Keith has demonstrated his commitment in a number of ways, most notably by performing on six United Service Organizations (USO) tours overseas.



"Toby has done so much to show his commitment and appreciation to our nation's Armed Forces," Congressman Cole said. "He has given his time and energy to put on performances for our troops overseas and at home. He has really gone out of his way to support our servicemen and women and their families."



"I believe Toby deserves to be acknowledged for his work. He's shown a unique understanding of the dedication and difficult work the members of the Armed Forces do and he has made it his priority to bring joy and entertainment back to them. I am proud to bring forth this resolution commending Toby Keith for all that he has done to boost the morale of the military. He has made Oklahoma very proud."



Oklahoma native Toby Keith has performed for over 135,000 members of the Armed Forces during USO tours to Cuba, Germany, Belgium, Kosovo, Italy, parts of Africa and other places overseas. Keith has volunteered to perform at dangerous and remote locations across the world. For example, on April 24, 2008, during a USO event, mortar fire disrupted Keith's concert in Kandahar, Afghanistan.



The USO was established in 1941. Since it was founded, thousands of celebrities have volunteered with USO to entertain members of the Armed Forces in America and overseas. The purpose of the USO according to its web site is to "support the troops by providing morale, welfare and recreation-type services to our men and women in uniform."