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380AEW Article

'Comics on Duty' entertain 380th AEW

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Amanda Savannah
  • 380th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs
SOUTHWEST ASIA --  A group of comedians on the Armed Forces Entertainment "Comics on Duty" tour visited the 380th Air Expeditionary Wing June 14 and 15.

The tour included comedians Steve Bills, Sarah Tiana, Derek Richards, Keith Alberstadt, Paul Ogata and Andy Ritchie.

The group had a meet-and-greet event and performed two shows for Airmen and soldiers here, and was given a mission briefing and base tour during their visit.

"I think the best part is meeting new people all the time and getting to see past the news," Tiana said. "You watch TV and you just feel really detached from the men and women who are over here, so it's really great to sit down and have one-on-one conversations with people, see how they're really feeling, make them laugh and change up their routine. It's pretty great."

Senior Airman Taylor Lineberry, 380th Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron patrolman, was at the show June 15.

"I appreciate the guys coming out to boost morale. It was a good time," he said. "A good laugh is always welcome."

The "Comics on Duty" tour company was started in 1991 by Rich Davis. Tiana said the company includes several comedians and specializes in visiting remote deployed locations.

This was the first tour overseas for Ritchie.

"It's been a really awesome experience, not just to see another part of the world, but to meet all the service people," he said. "Everyone has been so incredibly welcoming and nice. I was really taken aback at how overall friendly everyone has been. Even though we are tired, that has kept me going. When they say how much they appreciate the shows, it's really energizing for me."

Ogata said any time he is asked to attend the tour, he always says yes.

"Every chance I get, I will do this," he said. "We'll go wherever you [service members] are."