FORT CARSON, Colo. (May 30, 2013) -- Performers walked the aisles creating laughter and excitement as the lights dimmed and an announcer said that the 2013 U.S. Army Soldier Show was about to begin, May 30, at McMahon Auditorium.
The show altered popular songs to include the Army's message of staying "Ready and Resilient," while remaining fun for all ages of the audience.
This year's show began with the singing of the national anthem by Joint Task Force Carson's own Sgt. Nadine Pope, military intelligence analyst, 3rd Brigade Special Troops Battalion, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division.
"I am appreciative of the opportunity to be able to help boost the morale of the Soldiers and Families," Pope said. "I want people to know that we are dedicated and loyal to them."
In the show's 30th modern-era anniversary, Sgt. Quentin Dorn said he was proud to be able to relay the Army's message.
"I have been singing my whole life. So the opportunity to sing for my fellow Soldiers is a dream come true," said the paralegal specialist with the New Mexico National Guard. "The opportunity to travel around, and be on stage and serve the people that protect our country and their Families, is amazing."
This year's show paid tribute to Blue and Gold Star Families, and covered topics from how to deal with coming home after a long deployment, to Sexual Harassment Assault Response and Prevention.
"My favorite part of the show is the tribute to the Gold Star Families, because it is so powerful, and the audience gets a lot from it," Dorn said. "The show covers some tough topics, but it is necessary."
Sgt. 1st Class David Gonzales, Company A, Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion, 4th Inf. Div, said he liked how the show put twists on the songs they performed to be able to relay the Army's messages and relate them to Soldiers.
"This show brought a lot of awareness, in another way, for the Army to get its messages across," he said. "It was definitely effective, while being entertaining. It is a must see show."