Bob who?
By Sandra Roy, Deputy Public Affairs Officer
As you enter the Minneapolis VA Medical Center Outpatient Entrance you pass a three-foot-tall bronze statue, but have you ever wondered who it is? Well, many Veterans and employees of an - ahem - older generation, will quickly tell you it’s Bob Hope, the GI’s best friend!
Bob Hope was an entertainer whose connection to the U.S. military is etched in history as one of support and dedication. Born on March 29, 1903, Hope's career spanned vaudeville theater, radio, television, and film, but it was his tireless efforts to entertain American troops during times of conflict that made him a true American icon.
The bronze statue of Hope is intended to pay homage to a man who brought joy and comfort to countless troops through his dedication. The statue was donated by the Roseville Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #7555 in 1995.
During World War II, Hope began his lifelong association with the United Service Organizations (USO), performing for troops stationed both at home and abroad. His witty humor and charismatic stage presence became a morale booster for soldiers. Hope's USO shows took him to war zones across Europe, the Pacific, the Korean Peninsula, and later, Vietnam and the Gulf War. In 1991, at the age of 88, Hope made a special trip to Saudi Arabia to entertain the troops involved in Operation Desert Storm.
Hope’s USO shows featured a massive line-up of famous performers over five decades: Ann-Margret, Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr., Bing Crosby, Marilyn Monroe, Dean Martin, Dionne Warwick, Ginger Rogers, Steve Martin, Humphrey Bogart and astronaut Neil Armstrong. His dedication to lifting the spirits of the troops was unwavering, earning him the affectionate nickname "GI Bob” or “Mr. USO."
Hope was awarded more than 2,000 honors and awards.
He was recognized by Presidents Lyndon Johnson, Ronald Reagan and Bill Clinton In 1980, he became the 64th—and only civilian—recipient of the United States Air Force Order of the Sword, which recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the enlisted corps.
Hope was a frequent visitor to Minnesota during his performing days. An extended engagement gave Hope the chance to take up what became his favorite avocation -- golf. During a 1981 stand-up appearance, he joked, "I love Minnesota with its ten thousand lakes. ... The way I play golf, I'm in all of them."
His last local appearance was in 1992 when the then 89-year-old Hope filled in for fellow comedian Red Skelton at the Minnesota State Fair Grandstand.