Dance, Listen, Sing Along – It is a USO Show

Dance, Laurie is all in; just tell her where and when and she will be the first at the door.

Riding around Vincennes looking at French Architecture and visiting the Red Skelton Museum, we saw a small temporary sign stuck in the grass. It simply said USO Show Tonight. Although John served in the Air Force for four years during the Vietnam Era, he had never been to a USO Show. We were ready for the experience. Back home, Laurie found the information on line and learned there would be a Big Band and dancing. Tonight would be a step back in time as we experienced something different.The show was in the Green Activities Center at Vincennes University, the oldest university in Indiana. It was sponsored by the Vincennes Stage Door Canteen whose mission is to “promote, preserve and interpret the community’s World War II and Home Front heritage through education, outreach and community events”. Tonight was a WWII-Korean War Variety Show with song and skits relating to the 1940s/1950s.

As we arrived the majority were dressed in period dress, both military and those who were supporting the effort. Dresses, uniforms, skits, snacks, music, everything spoke of an earlier time. The show began with the Knights of Columbus Color Guard leading the Pledge of Allegiance. The ending was a skit relating to Rosie the Riveter. After the various performances there was a military tribute honoring all veterans and active military.

Rosie the Riveter Tribute

In between there were songs by the “Andrew Sisters”, dancing to “In The Mood”, skit of “How Much Is That Doggy In The Window”, singing of “God Bless America” and other performances. The show consisted of two acts. Before the first act and between the two acts, The Temple Airs Big Band of Evansville, IN played tunes from the Big Band Era and we danced.

“Andrew Sisters” Tribute

It was a great night to dress up, dance and pay tribute to our military. Thank you to John for his service to our country as well as all other men and women who have served. All money raised went to the USO of IN. And thank you to the USO for continuing to serve these men and women in any way they are able.

The Temple Airs

Dancing