Robin Williams

Comedian Robin Williams performs during the USO holiday tour on Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan, Dec.15, 2010. Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel saluted actor and comedian Robin Williams, who’d passed away yesterday at age 63, for his steadfast support of U.S. troops and veterans over the years. (DOD photo by U.S. Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Chad J. McNeeley)

Hagel Praises Williams as 'True Friend' of Troops

Published Aug. 12, 2014
By DoD News, Defense Media Activity

WASHINGTON -- Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel saluted actor and comedian Robin Williams, who'd passed away yesterday at age 63, for his steadfast support of U.S. troops and veterans over the years.

In a statement issued yesterday, Hagel noted that Williams had toured with the USO to entertain overseas-deployed U.S. forces and supported efforts to assist veterans.

Hagel's statement reads as follows:

"The entire Department of Defense community mourns the loss of Robin Williams. Robin was a gifted actor and comedian, but he was also a true friend and supporter of our troops. From entertaining thousands of service men and women in war zones, to his philanthropy that helped veterans struggling with hidden wounds of war, he was a loyal and compassionate advocate for all who serve this nation in uniform. He will be dearly missed by the men and women of DoD -- so many of whom were personally touched by his humor and generosity."