Toby Keith was at the football game between the University of Oklahoma and Oklahoma State on Dec. 6 to watch the game - he's a huge University of Oklahoma fan - and to present an award to a member of the U.S. military. He has long been a huge fan of America's men and women in uniform, as well. While presenting the award at halftime, the superstar was caught off guard by the turn of events.
The game's halftime show in Norman, Oklahoma, included the presentation of the Patriot Award, a partnership between the university and Patriot Ford. In keeping with the honor's intention to recognize "a recently returned member of the armed services at each home game," Keith presented the Patriot Award to OU alum Rear Admiral Doug McClain. Then, unbeknownst to the country star, at the conclusion of that presentation, he was also bestowed the honor.
Keith may have been the only one surprised by the moment, as his longstanding support of service members includes more than a decade of USO Tours and vocal support extending even into his songs like "American Soldier," according to a press release. In fact, Keith's commitment resulted in a surprise presentation of the USO Spirit Award during his appearance on the Academy of Country Music's nationally televised "Salute To The Troops" in April.
Of course, Keith's notion of service extends well beyond the military, as residents of his home state well know. Funded largely by the Toby Keith Foundation, the OK Kids Korral opened in January to provide a cost-free, convenient and comfortable home for seriously ill children and their families seeking treatment at The Children's Hospital at OU Medical Center.
And Keith's support of his hometown, Moore, following the devastating 2013 tornado, included a benefit concert that raised $2 million for the region. That event was held at OU's football stadium - the same venue where Keith accepted his Patriot Award.
