By Army Sgt. 1st Class Jim Greenhill

Air Force Gen. Joseph L. Lengyel, the chief of the National Guard Bureau, is currently hosting a USO tour featuring comedians, actors and other celebrities who are scheduled to perform for service members and their families based in Europe, Africa and Southwest Asia.

This is Lengyel’s first USO tour since becoming Chief of the National Guard Bureau and a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

“It’s an honor to join the USO to thank our Guard members and all Service members and their families for all they do to keep our nation safe,” Lengyel said.

“It’s important they know everyone back home values their service and cares about them.”

The six-day tour is scheduled to include stops in six different countries in Europe, Southwest Asia and Africa and is designed to boost morale for Service members and families stationed overseas. The tour also gives the volunteer talent an inside look at what the U.S. military does to protect the nation.

“Embarking on our first tour with Gen. Lengyel is a true honor,” said Alan Reyes, the USO’s chief operating officer.

“Together, we will bring a touch of home to our men and women in uniform while underscoring the important role the National Guard plays in the defense of our nation.”

Performers on the tour include “Big Bang Theory” actress Mayim Bialik, singer Laura Bryna, comedian Anjelah Johnson, Ms. America 2019 Nia Franklin, “Seal Team” actress Toni Trucks, “The Voice” champ Cassadee Pope and former UFC champion Quinton “Rampage” Jackson.

This is the second USO tour for Pope and Jackson.

-This story originally appeared on nationalguard.mil. It has been edited for style, grammar and accuracy.