Area Support Group Qatar Public Affairs Office

Story by Lakia Clarke-Brown

CAMP AS SAYLIYAH, Qatar – Five television and film stars completed a Pro Sports MVP Ambassadors of Hollywood support tour in Southwest Asia at Camp As Sayliyah, Qatar, Oct. 18. Vanessa Branch, Kelly Carlson, Greg Germann, D.W. Moffett and DeAnna Pappas traveled to military installations in the Middle East to show their appreciation for deployed sevice members.

"I feel proud coming here to support the people who put their lives on the line for us back home," said Pappas, finishing her third tour. The five celebrities met troops and signed autographs. Branch, a Hollywood actress and Wrigley's Orbit official spokesperson, distributed complimentary packs of chewing gum.

"I came to see Greg," said U.S. Army Spc. David Graves, from Traverse, Mich. Germann is well known for his role as Larry Dennit Jr., in the movie "Talladega Nights," a 2006 comedy movie about NASCAR drivers. "I had to meet him – he's a great actor. I felt jealous when he starred with Molly Shannon in 'Talladega Nights.'"

"Compared to other places I've toured in the Middle East, Qatar is by far the best," said Pappas. "The amenities, facilities and food here are phenomenal." Camp As Sayliyah hosts the only authorized U.S. Central Command rest and recuperation pass program. Nearly 200,000 service members have participated since its inception in 2004.

Carlson referred to Camp As Sayliyah as "five-star Qatar," comparing it to U.S. military installations in Afghanistan.

"My favorite drama is 'Nip/Tuck,'" said Pfc. David Bailey, from Charleston, S.C., after meeting Carlson, who currently stars as "Kimber Henry" in the FX evening series. "Now I have bragging rights the next time I watch the show with my friends."

"This is my first support tour," said Carlson, "but definitely not my last. Coming out here to see the troops humbles me – I look forward to coming back."

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