VH1 'Divas' to entertain U.S. troops

SANTA MONICA, Calif., Oct. 14 (UPI) -- Katy Perry, Sugarland, Keri Hilson, Nicki Minaj and Paramore are to perform from U.S. military bases around the world, VH1 said Thursday.

The performances will be featured on the Dec. 5 special "VH1 Divas Salute the Troops."

"The USO is thrilled to be partnering with VH1 and honored to be a part of delivering such an uplifting event to our nation's troops," Sloan Gibson, USO president, said in a statement. "The holidays are especially tough for our men and women in uniform and their families, and having the opportunity to touch so many troops stationed around the world at a time of year that matters most lets them know that America still cares about their welfare. There is no better time to celebrate our armed forces and support their efforts than now."

"Next to MCAS Miramar's much celebrated annual air show, this 'VH1 Divas' USO concert is our biggest and most anticipated event of the year," added Col. Frank Richie, commanding officer of MCAS Miramar. "Hosting events like this helps boost troop morale and unites military families, which is critical to our mission. We thank both VH1 and the USO for bringing this event to our doorstep."

"We are thrilled and honored to be bringing our 'Divas' show to the troops and their families this year," said Lee Rolontz, executive vice president of original music production and development at VH1 and VH1 Classic. "'Divas' is always a spectacular annual event featuring music's most entertaining performers and we are extremely proud to be partnering with the USO on this signature event."