The 2015 United States Army Soldier Show “We Serve” presented by the U.S. Army Installation Management Command came to the Fort Irwin Freedom Fitness Center Gym, Sept. 9.
The popular show is a high-energy 90-minute live musical singing and dancing production that showcases the talents of Soldiers from across the Army.
The event was attended by more than 400 Fort Irwin and National Training Center Soldiers and family members.
This year’s production, “We Serve,” theme explored the foundational elements of what it means to serve, in and out of uniform, as well as how the country in return serves the military.
The centerpiece of the show paid tribute to the 50th anniversary of the Battle of Ia Drang Valley, one of the bloodiest conflicts in the Vietnam War.
As always, the Soldier Show delivered song-and-dance entertainment from diverse cultures. This year’s show included more than 40 songs, ranging from Country, R&B, Gospel, Rock, Oldies, Soul and patriotic songs combined in solos, duets and groups. The 18 cast members and seven technicians and production assistants are selected not only for their talent and abilities, but because each exemplify the Army values of loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity and personal courage. They must also represent the Army well in appearance, fitness and bearing – in and out of uniform.
According to the U.S. Army, “entertainment for the Soldier, by the Soldier” has been a part of the U.S. Army’s heritage since 1774. Building on the tradition of Civil War camp shows, and more known military shows “Yip Yip Yaphank” during World War I and “This Is The Army” during World War II (written and directed by then Sgt. Irving Berlin), Army Entertainment was formalized to inspire, support and coordinate theatrical and musical programs at Army installations worldwide.
The show’s tour travels to 38 locations worldwide for a total of 63 performances this year.
Find out more about the U.S. Army Soldier Show and the entire tour schedule at http://www.armymwr.com/recleisure/entertainment/soldiershow/ or visit Army Entertainment’s Facebook page at www.armymwr.com.
