Toby Keith entertains troops at LSA Anaconda

Photo By Sgt. 1st Class David Chapman | Country music artist Toby Keith performed for servicemembers and civilians May 28 at Logistical Support Area Anaconda.  

06.10.2006

Courtesy Story

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Servicemembers and civilians were treated to a special performance at Holt Stadium on Logistical Support Area Anaconda May 27.

Country music artist Toby Keith visited LSA Anaconda to perform songs for his fans. The concert was sponsored by Morale, Welfare and Recreation and the Uniformed Services Organization.

An estimated 4,000 people showed up for the concert and greeted Keith with loud cheers and applause as he took the stage.

Keith walked onto stage and moved through his hour long show performing favorites such as "American Soldier" and "Whiskey for my men and beer for my horses." Keith then drank a near beer supplied by a fan from the crowd.

The large crowd was a surprise to some of those who attended the concert.

"There are a lot more country fans here than I thought," said Spc. Steven Chandler, 19th Support Center automated supply specialist.

Chandler has always been a loyal fan of Toby Keith, he said.

For those fans who attended the concert, Keith's attitude toward the servicemembers is very important.

"He is showing support for all the troops," said Sgt. Brandon Marshall from A Company, 64th Base Support Battalion. "His songs are about the troops."

Marshall and his co-worker, Sgt. Eric Orozco, are truck drivers from Forward Operating Base Warhorse and were lucky enough to be able catch the concert on their way back to their home FOB.

"We are coming back from R&R [Rest and Recuperation] and found out he was playing here," said Orozco. "It was a great surprise."

A show like this gives troops a chance to think about something besides being far from home.

"Concerts like this boost morale and bring a little something from home," said Orozco. "It shows that somebody out there cares for us here."

The overall opinion of the show was positive for those in attendance.

"For me, country music is about having fun," said Spc. Alonzo Chapa, a military policeman with the Joint Cooperation Center in Samarra.

The concert ended with Keith saluting all the servicemembers for their dedication and the work they do.

A few lucky Soldiers experienced an extra surprise after the show. Keith visited the east side post exchange to pick up a few last minute items before heading out to his flight.

But even with his busy schedule, Keith took time out to have a few pictures taken before leaving LSA Anaconda with fans that recognized him.

"I was surprised to see him there after the show," said Orozco. "I didn't want to bother him, but I didn't want to miss a chance to meet him."

• Date Taken: 06.10.2006
• Date Posted: 06.10.2006 11:20
• Story ID: 6778