The New England Patriots Cheerleaders will be performing several shows in the Central Command/Fifth Fleet area of operations from June 9-18 for military personnel deployed in support of the Global War on Terror. This entertainment tour in support of U.S. military personnel is made possible through the Navy's Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) program. Navy MWR contributes to the retention, readiness and well being of active duty, Reserve and retired personnel, and to the welfare of their families by providing a varied program of recreational, social and community activities.
This marks the sixth military tour that the New England Patriots Cheerleaders have participated in since the September 11 attacks. They have previously taken part in the Citizen Patriot Tour (2001), Operation Enduring Freedom (2002), Operation Seasons Greetings (2003, 2004) and Operation Pacific Greetings (2004). Four Patriots cheerleaders, Melinda McGrath (Marlboro, MA), Alison Preston (Bedford, NH), Lori Baranksi (Johnston, RI) and Amber vanEeghen (Cranston, RI), accompanied by cheerleader director and choreographer Tracy Sormanti, will be traveling overseas for this tour. They are scheduled to return home on June 18.
