Tags
On December 22nd, 1969, Bob Hope’s USO Christmas Show went to the 1st Infantry base camp at Lai Khe, Vietnam.

It was a big show, with Neil Armstrong, Connie Stevens, Suzanne Charney, Teresa Graves, the Gold-diggers, Eva Reuber-Staier (Miss World of 1969), Les Brown and his Band of Renown, and the Peiro Brothers (a comic juggling team).

15,000 GIs took a break from the war, smiled, gawked at the beautiful ladies, and cheered until they were hoarse.
I was stationed at Lai Khe at the time, out pounding the bush with a Mechanized Infantry platoon. We’d been out for 7 straight weeks, with one three-day stand-down. We were supposed to chopper in 3 guys from each platoon to see the show, but were tasked with providing extended perimeter security instead. It’s a good thing we were, for a squad of Viet Cong were caught setting up 122mm Katyusha rockets 4 miles north of Lai Khe. Lai Khe was called “Rocket City” for a reason, but the show went on without enemy intervention.
Every year, at Christmas time, I remember how it was back in the day, and it makes me thankful for all the great things I enjoy at Christmas now. This year, I wanted to thank Bob Hope for all the joy he provided American GIs.
Thanks, Mr. Hope.
An outstanding entertainer who gave his all to the troops…LOVE Bob Hope…
Thanks so much for sharing, Tim. You exemplify the feelings of billions!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I thought the way Hope did so much for the troops was great. Didn’t get to see the show, but still appreciate what he did.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Great post!

LikeLiked by 2 people
Thanks. Your post inspired me.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Now I’m even more thrilled!! Mr. Hope deserves to remembered for all his service!!
LikeLiked by 1 person
He sure does. Didn’t get to see his show, but still think what he did for the troops was great. Merry Christmas to you!
LikeLiked by 1 person
And bach atcha, my friend!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Beautiful post. I hate all the hell you and your friends had to go through. You all were better men than us, for sure.
LikeLiked by 2 people
We actually had it good compared to a lot of units, Stan. We were well supplied, always up to strength, and had excellent artillery and air support. Real good guys in my battalion, with great morale. Pretty gung ho, at times, Iron Ranger all the way.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Well, no one had it easy. You know I got much love for you. Hope you and fam have a Merry Christmas, and let’s just hope 2021 is a little bit better year. lol
LikeLiked by 1 person
I never got to see him, but he was in the area and it was nice knowing a little piece of home was near by, Especially the “round-eye” women. HA!
LikeLiked by 2 people
🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people