Q & A

USO Entertainer – Leeann Tweeden

By Sgt. Clinton Firstbrook, HEADQUARTERS MARINE CORPS, Washington

Leeann Tweeden
Leeann Tweeden

Probably best known for her role as one of the hosts on the "Best Damn Sports Show Period," Leeann Tweeden has been spotlighted in several publications and television shows. However, what made Marines want to sit down with this Manassas, Va., native wasn't her most recent magazine spread; it was the steadfast support she displays for the troops.

  1. You've completed seven United Service Organization tours along with numerous other events in support of the military. Where does all of your patriotism come from?

    My father served during Vietnam, and I grew up in a household that held being an American in high standards. He taught me that I should be proud to be an American, but also that I should feel blessed that this is the country where I was born. I believe, that no matter what your political stance, we all should support our troops. This great country was founded on the Americans serving in our armed forces, people we never meet who are fighting for our freedoms. I respect every person wearing the uniform and their families who serve right along with them.

  2. Have you noticed no matter what base you've visiting, even in the middle of nowhere, there's always one service member who has a magazine with you in it?

    Yeah, that's pretty cool. I'm still flattered every time someone comes up to me asking for my autograph or picture. And it's not only the men. Women come up to me all the time asking for me to sign pictures for their husbands, brothers, etc.What was the first event you attended to support the troops? The very first USO tour I did was in July 2002. I got a call one day and couldn't believe my ears. I said yes then called my dad. After hearing his stories of meeting Raquel Welsh while he was stationed in Vietnam, I felt honored that maybe I could be my generation's Raquel Welch.

  3. Seriously, how many service members do you think have proposed to you while you were signing autographs?

    I don't know how many have proposed to me, but a few have asked for my phone number. Usually, during a show, I tell them that my boyfriend is an Air Force pilot. They don't really like that. Especially if I'm with soldiers or Marines.

  4. Have you acquired a lot of military knowledge during your USO travels?

    I have learned so much over the last five years. I'm pretty good with knowing ranks on the uniforms and military lingo. I just had to get used to everything being referred to as an acronym.

  5. I'm sure you've experienced a fair share of "cat-calls." What's the funniest pick-up line you've heard during one of your USO tours?

    I can't recall just one particular instance, but there are a lot of times guys come up to me and tell me it's their birthday. So of course, they'd ask for a hug and hopefully a kiss on the cheek. I'm usually happy to oblige.

  6. If you wanted to join the military, which service would you chose? Please remember this interview is for Marines magazine.

    Ha! I better say the Marines, right? Actually, I respect the Marines for everything they stand for. They're proud and very hard workers. I have a few friends in the Marines, and they are their own breed. Ooh-rah! But if I didn't join the Marines, I'd have to say the Air Force and follow in my father's footsteps.

  7. Is there a message you'd like to leave for the troops?

    I would just like to tell everyone serving in the military ‘Thank you.' You are my personal heroes, including every family member who serves along with you. Thank you for your service and for putting yourselves in harms way so that we may continue our great way of life. Keep your heads held high, and hopefully, somewhere down the road, I'll see you on tour. Stay safe.