Toby Keith to receive award for supporting troops
Toby Keith performs on his 2008 USO tour.
Oklahoma country music star Toby Keith will receive another honor for his support of America’s military men and women this week.On Thursday, the Marine Corps-Law Enforcement Foundation will present Keith with the Johnny “Mike” Spann Memorial Semper Fidelis Award at its 14th annual gala in New York City, according to a news release.
The award is named for the Marine Corps captain turned CIA paramilitary professional who became the first casualty in the war on terror on Nov. 28, 2001, in Afghanistan. The honor recognizes Keith as “always faithful” in his loyalty to and support of America’s troops. (Sen. Joseph Lieberman was the award’s 2008 recipient, according to the release.)
“Spending time with our soldiers around the world is something I’ve always regarded as a privilege and honor,” Keith said in the release. “I’m certainly happy to accept this award, but I won’t forget for a second who’s really doing the heavy lifting to keep this country safe. And that’s why I’ll keep going back and spending time with those good folks every chance I get.”
Keith completed his seventh United Service Organization tour in 2008, visiting multiple sites, including forward operating bases on the front lines in Afghanistan and Iraq. He has been an ardent support of America’s fighting men and women both in his music (his hit song “American Soldier,” for example) and in urging fellow artists to join him in visiting and performing for troops around the globe.
Founded in 1995, the Marine Corps-Law Enforcement Foundation is a nonprofit charity that has distributed more than $38 million to the left-behind children of America’s fallen heroes. It’s stated mission is “to encourage the spiritual, moral, intellectual and physical development of children through education.”
Last month, the Military Officers Association of America announced that it would honor Keith with one of its highest awards, the MOAA Distinguished Service Award for his exceptional support of military people.
Keith’s newest single, “Lost You Anyway,” is climbing the charts while his recent chart-topper “God Love Her” marked his 25th No. 1 single of his career.
-BAM
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