For our soldiers away from home, it's hard for them and for their families to be away from one another during the holidays. There's nothing that can replace dear friends and family, but there are ways in which their spirits can be lifted ever so slightly.
In 1967, during the Vietnam War, actor Bob Hope traveled to Saigon to perform a special. Teaming up with the USO, he brought popular figures and celebrities such as Raquel Welch, Phil Crosby, Barbara McNair, and Madeline Hartog-Bel to the war-torn country to perform for the soldiers.
In this piece of vintage footage from the Christmas special, the soldiers clap and cheer very enthusiastically for Bob's next guest, Raquel Welch! The actress, who was then in her 20s and famed for her beauty and her famous One Million Years B.C. bikini still, performed a classic 1965 hit: "Different Drum."
Watch how Raquel struts around on stage, moving very fluidly to the tune of the song. The soldiers may be disappointed to be in Vietnam for Christmas, but just look at their faces: they're clearly very happy that she has traveled to perform for them!
Check out the amazing footage of Raquel's performance!
If you enjoyed watching this clip of Bob Hope's 1967 Christmas special, please SHARE!
