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Michael Jackson was long-time U.S. Military supporter
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Michael Jackson greets troops at Camp Zama, Japan
Shock waves rippled across the globe as the news of ‘King of Pop’ music icon, Michael Jackson’s death was confirmed on Thursday, June 25th. Fans across the world, including troops stationed at U.S. military bases felt the loss of music industry’s biggest pop star in history, and couldn’t help but reflect on how Jackson’s music and original dance moves influenced multi-generations of lives. With blockbuster hits such as ‘Billie Jean’, ‘Beat It’, and Thriller, the backward-gliding moonwalk and provocative crotch-grabbing trademarks, Michael will be remembered, arguably, as one of the most exciting performers of all time.
Although Jackson’s personal life would come to be recognized as a target of controversy and one filled with burdensome legal issues; friends close to him stood by his side and spoke outwardly revealing a man of kindness and generosity.
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Troops welcome Michael Jackson at Camp Zama, Japan
What many may not realize is that Jackson was a strong supporter of U.S. Military troops and was introduced to Bob Hope and the Hollywood USO in the 1970’s during the Vietnam War era. In those days, a young Michael was performing with his famous brothers as The Jackson Five and the group frequently joined Bob Hope on USO domestic tours.
Michael Jackson was also a huge addition to the “United We Stand – What More Can I Give” 24 hour benefit concert that followed the September 11 terrorist attacks on New York City. Performing with more than 25 artists to unite and heal America with a single theme, “…that no matter the obstacles thrown before us or the challenges that await, we shall overcome.”
Impatient fans chanted “Michael, Michael” as they waited 11-and-1-half hours for the concert finale`, a collective rendition of “One Voice” led my Michael Jackson. Organizations that were to benefit from the concert were the American Red Cross Liberty Relief Fund, the Salvation Army Relief Fund, the Pentagon Relief Fund and the Rewards for Justice Fund, which supplies rewards to those who help identify and apprehend individuals who are planning, or have committed, terrorist attacks.
Jackson was also no stranger to U.S. military bases overseas and traveled to greet 3,000 plus U.S. troops and their families in March of 2007 at Army base Camp Zama, Japan, just south of Tokyo. Jackson was flown in on a Black Hawk helicopter from Hardy Barracks in Tokyo and gave the frenzied crowd an unforgettable appearance at the Yano Fitness Center gymnasium located on the base.
“It’s an honor and a privilege to be here,” Jackson told the spectators. “You people are among the most special in the world because you haven chosen a life of service. Because of you here today and others who have given their lives, we can enjoy our freedom at home. I thank you from the bottom of my heart, and I love you.
Col. Robert M. Waltemeyer, Commander U.S. Army Garrison Japan, presented Jackson with a Certificate of Appreciation for his devotion to U.S. Military troops and their families.
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AP Photos/U.S. Army, Sgt. Zach Mott
Michael Jackson will be deeply missed while his contributions to the music industry and legacy will be felt upon the world forever. Jackson ranked alongside Elvis Presley and the Beatles as the biggest pop sensations of alll time.
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