Spirit soars for U.S. troops

Rosenthal brings entertainment to military personnel, families
By ADAM SANDLER

The Sept. 11 attacks changed how Robert Rosenthal thought he'd spend his retirement. The well-known entertainment attorney had taken down his shingle earlier that year and was preparing for a quiet life with his wife Nina traveling and going to the movies.
Motivated into action by the tragedy, Rosenthal discovered that although organizations like the USO and Stars for Stripes were bringing talent to the soldiers stationed overseas, nobody was bringing headliner entertainers to stateside military bases. Rosenthal created a plan for the Spirit of America Tour and approached the Pentagon, where military leaders agreed to a five-base test run. Marty Stuart performed the first show in 2002 at MCAS New River in North Carolina for 3,000 military members and families.

Rosenthal's life today is anything but quiet. SOAT has grown from five shows in 2002 to 20 annually, held at bases in Louisiana, Missouri, Texas and others, by such top artists as Clint Black, Dierks Bentley, Pam Tillis, Charlie Daniels and Billy Ray Cyrus. The artists donate their time, and Rosenthal uses his own money to cover production costs and operate SOAT. He doesn't get paid and ensures all shows are free to military personnel and families.

"This is one of the most satisfying things I have ever done in my life," says Rosenthal. "The soldiers are so appreciative, and the artists get a tremendous response. They discover that a fan in uniform is a fan for life."

© 2006 Reed Business Information