Legendary entertainer Bob Hope has donated $1 million to help build an auditorium for Air Force widows in honour of his old friend Colonel Bob Gates. The two got to know each other during World War II when the pilot flew Hope around the world to entertain US troops.
The 99-year-old star was famous for his efforts to boost soldiers' morale during the war and he went on to do similar work during the Vietnam and Gulf conflicts. Colonel Gates, now 83 years old, is to attend the groundbreaking ceremony along with Hope's daughter Linda.
The new auditorium will be built in Bob Hope Village, the housing complex that forms part of Florida's Eglin Air Force Base. It will mainly be used by the Village's 400 residents, most of whom are widows of USAF personnel.
It is not the first time that the enduring entertainer has pitched in to help the Air Force Enlisted Foundation, which built the complex. He has also held benefit shows to raise money for the organisation.
Photo: © Alphapress.com
