CMT News

Toby Keith Plans USO Tour, Earns Military Award

Toby Keith will embark on a USO/Armed Forces Entertainment tour later this month, performing 17 shows in 11 days for U.S. troops. Keith told reporters at the Academy of Country Music Awards on April 5 that he would be visiting Afghanistan, not Iraq, and that his band will be supporting him on several of the shows. Because of the USO commitment, Keith said he abandoned his role in the upcoming film, Provinces of Night. In addition, Keith will receive the Distinguished Service Award from the Military Officers Association of America on April 21 in Washington, D.C. The award recognizes civilians who give back to military personnel. "There aren't enough words to describe just how grateful I am to our nation's troops," he said. "I've participated in several USO tours over the years, and I've seen firsthand their sacrifice. And I will not stop doing all I can to show my support and lift their spirits."