Globetrotters give thanks to American Airmen

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Tabitha M. Lee
  • 100th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
RAF MILDENHALL, England --  The world-famous Harlem Globetrotters performed for more than 750 RAF Mildenhall servicemembers and their families Dec. 11, 2010. Public Affairs had the opportunity to sit down before the show and talk to Rocket Rivers, the team's co-captain, to get the low-down on how he and the team feel about performing for the military, as well as what it takes to be a Harlem Globetrotter.

Q: Why is performing for servicemembers important?

A: I'm actually from a military town [Beaufort, S.C.], so I've had ties with the military since I was a very young child. I actually have family [serving] in Iraq and Afghanistan. It feels great to bring a little piece of America over here and give our troops two hours of happiness, where they can forget about their troubles and just enjoy themselves with their comrades.

Q: How does performing for servicemembers differ from performing for civilians?

A: No matter who we are performing for, we try to put on the greatest show. It's just that extra edge when we perform for the troops. It's the least we can do to show our appreciation for everything that they do for us, and we consider it the highest honor to be able to play for them and offer them some happiness. It's amazing and we love it.

Q: Do you plan to do performances like this in the future?

A: Yes, this is actually [the Harlem Globetrotters'] ninth year with Navy Entertainment performing for the military. This is my second year. I went on a military tour last year to the Middle East and I loved it; they can send me every year.

Q: How much practice goes into preparing for a show?

A: As a team, we practice for an hour to an hour-and-a-half every day, but as individuals we have to work on our ball-handling on our off time.

Q: What does it take to become a Harlem Globetrotter?

A: Besides being a great basketball player, you have to have personality and be a people-person. You can't be scared to put yourself out there and let people know who you are. You also have to be a positive asset to the community.

Q: If you could send a message to every Airman serving today, what would it be?

A: Thank you for everything you do. We are truly honored and blessed to be able play for you. I applaud you guys. It's crazy that when we visit bases, people are constantly thanking us for coming out. That's funny to us, because it's what we're thinking. We want to thank you for everything you do.

Q: Is there anything else you would like to add?

A: We know we wouldn't have the lifestyle we have, or enjoy the things that we enjoy without the sacrifices [servicemembers] make on a daily basis. So we are truly honored and thankful.