Country music star Lee Greenwood has opened up about a dangerous assignment from then-President George H.W. Bush, which saw him deployed to Panama to perform for U.S. troops during the mission against Manuel Noriega. Greenwood revealed that he encountered enemy fire before even reaching a group of Marines in the jungle.
Greenwood recounted the president's direct request, stating, "I’m going to send you to Panama. Take your band down there. I’ve already taken out the dependents. We’re going to take [Noriega] out... I want you to entertain our troops." This conversation took place ahead of the military operation.
The renowned singer, best known for "God Bless the USA," explained that his band traveled ahead of him via a Chinook helicopter. Meanwhile, he was entrusted with a personal letter from President Bush, intended for 200 Marines positioned deep within the jungle.
"And a courier had given me a letter from the president to 200 Marines in the jungle," Greenwood detailed. "So, the band’s gone. I jump in a jeep with a sergeant and we... come under fire and the bullets are whizzing through the jeep."
Ambush in the Jungle
Greenwood confirmed that he escaped the ambush unharmed, but the sergeant who was driving the vehicle sustained an injury. Recalling the moment, Greenwood stated, "[It] took my driver’s finger off right there in the index finger."
Despite the danger, they managed to reach the compound where the Marines were stationed. Greenwood explained that he showed them the location of the attack, prompting the Marines to pursue the assailants. "Fortunately, I didn’t get hit. We got to the compound where the Marines were, and I showed them where we were, and they went out, and they took out these guys," he added.
Operation Just Cause commenced in December 1989, involving the deployment of nearly 26,000 combat troops. The U.S. Army indicated that the mission's objectives were to neutralize Noriega's forces, re-establish an elected democratic government, and safeguard American lives.
A Memorable Reunion
Years following the Panama mission, Greenwood had a surprising encounter. The same driver from the harrowing jeep ride appeared backstage after one of his concerts in Ohio.
Greenwood described the moment of recognition: "I said, ‘Is he missing a finger?’ He said, ‘Yes.’ I came out, and we hugged each other, you know, for the moment that we could have both been killed."
He reflected on this episode as one of numerous military visits that profoundly influenced his artistic journey and personal convictions.
"I remember it was 140 degrees in the jungle ... and addressing 150 Marines that are about to go to war," Greenwood shared. "It’s been like that all over my career whenever I visit military, and that makes me a very proud patriot."
A Legacy of Patriotism
The discussion also touched upon the enduring impact of Greenwood's anthem, "God Bless the USA," as America approaches its 250th anniversary. His wife, Kimberly Greenwood, highlighted that the foundation of their relationship was built upon their shared commitment to patriotism and supporting military personnel.
She explained, "Really, our beginning of our relationship started with patriotism and serving our military. And that’s what we’ve done for our entire time together."
Greenwood articulated that "God Bless the USA" was composed from a deep affection for his nation and profound respect for those who have sacrificed their lives in service. "I’m so proud to know that I wrote it because I love the country," he affirmed. "I didn’t write it for any other purpose."