MCRD/ERR PARRIS ISLAND, S.C. -- The Parris Island Jazz Band and the United Service Organizations' Liberty Belles will be featured at the Depot's Christmas Concert hosted by the commanding general at the Depot Lyceum Dec. 13.
The music begins at 8 p.m., but Tri-Command active duty military members, civilians and retirees are encouraged to arrive with their families at 7 p.m. to see Santa Clause.
According to event organizers, the concert's theme will be a 1940's USO show including World War II era decorations, vehicles and posters. Master Sgt. Ronald R. Hackler, the Depot Band master, will play the role of Bob Hope, and a Salvation Army coffee stand will provide refreshments, adding to the USO feel of the show.
"It is going to be an awesome show," said Sgt. Stephen B. Giove, the Christmas Concert director, who hopes that Tri-Command personnel will appreciate all of the time and effort of event organizers.
Giove said that the Band is hoping to capture the true feel of an old-time USO show. They will even be wearing uniforms from the 1940s time period.
The Liberty Belles, a nostalgic 1940's Troupe reminiscent of the "Andrews Sisters," will crone classic hits such as "Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy," "Don't Sit Under the Apple Tree," "I'll Be Seeing You," "God Bless America," and "Thanks for the Memory."
Their show will include period costumes and hairstyles, dance numbers, audience interaction and Christmas music.
The USO mission is to provide morale, welfare and recreation-type services to uniformed military personnel. The original intent of Congress, and enduring style of USO delivery, is to represent the American people by extending a "Touch of Home" to their military members.
For more information, contact the Depot Band at 228-2178