MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan -- As part of Kenny Hill’s All Star Comedy Slam, entertainers Tommy Davidson and Miss Gayle hosted a meet and greet for service members inside the Marine Corps Exchange aboard Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Aug. 26, 2014.
Both entertainers wanted to meet service members before touring of the air station and conducting a comedy show scheduled for the following day.
“I like to bring the troops something that they can’t always find out here, whether it’s in Japan or the middle of a combat zone in Afghanistan,” said Davidson. “I like to bring the party to them, and after so many years of doing this, I know they appreciate what we do and I definitely appreciate everything they do for us.”
During their time at the MCX, Davidson and Gayle signed autographs and posed for photos with patrons as they came through the facility.
“It’s awesome that they take the time out to come and entertain us, even for one night. It brings a little bit of home to us,” said Master Sgt. Raul Concepcion, the brig officer with the station’s Provost Marshal’s Office. “To them, we are the stars, we do things that others don’t and we do it for them.”
Concepcion said he greatly appreciates Davidson and Gayle taking the time to visit the Marines of MCAS Iwakuni, adding that he last saw Davidson live nearly 10 years ago and is looking forward to seeing his upcoming performance, as his last show left a meaningful impression on him.
“In total, we’ve entertained for more than 40 combined years,” said Gayle. “Both Davidson and I have been traveling to military installations for nearly 20 years and I personally have enjoyed every second of it.”
Davidson has been in various comedic rolls throughout his career, including scenes in Ace Ventura: When Nature Calls, The Proud Family, and In Living Color.
“I’m honored that I have the opportunity to come out here and make service members laugh,” said Davidson. “I’m thankful for what they all do for our country, our people and keeping me safe.”