LeeAnn Rimes headlines Air Force holiday radio special

Published Oct. 5, 2007
By Daniel P. Elkins
Air Force Recruiting Service Public Affairs

RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Multiple Grammy-award winner LeAnn Rimes recalls her fondest holiday memories as the featured artist in the "Red, White and Air Force Blue Christmas" radio special to be released in November.

Produced and marketed by the Air Force Recruiting Service's strategic cmmunications division, the one-hour show features an in-depth interview with Ms. Rimes along with songs from her holiday album and new release, "Family."

In its 13th year, the program is sent to more than 3,300 country radio stations throughout the nation in late November and broadcast worldwide over American Forces Radio and Television affiliates on Christmas day, said Jimmy Spacek, AFRS broadcasting manager. He said the public service program aims to raise awareness of the Air Force and military service through messages of support and encouragement from various country music stars.

"The show gives stations the opportunity to weave our program into their holiday programming," Mr. Spacek said. "The one-hour special includes several spot breaks with built-in local availabilities the station can use along with public service announcements from some of the stars who have contributed to the show in the past."
Tech. Sgt. John Somheil, a broadcast producer at Air Force Recruiting Service headquarters here, co-produced the show with Spotland Productions, of Nashville, Tenn. Sergeant Somheil said that in addition to some seasonal classics and tracks from her newest release, the show includes a candid conversation about Ms. Rimes' efforts to champion support for servicemembers serving away from home.

"Christmas is my favorite holiday, so I jumped at the chance to hopefully bring a familiar voice from home to so many people overseas," said Ms. Rimes. "I do appreciate what they do so much. I have a great respect for not only the men and women fighting but the families ... away from their loved ones."

Ms.Rimes' longstanding support has extended to performances as part of a USO tour as well as visits with wounded soldiers who have come home. She has become deeply involved with the Coalition to Support America's Heroes, an organization dedicated to helping wounded soldiers reintegrate into society when they return from the war.

"No matter where you stand politically, I think everyone should support the men and women over there fighting," she said.