Forced To Perform

This is messed up. The latest American Idol cast off may have to perform in Iraq as part of his military obligation.

Now that "American Idol" voters have kicked U.S. Navy sailor Phil Stacey off the singing competition, is the Pentagon considering sending him to Iraq?

Navy and Pentagon officials weren't saying last week what is next for Stacey, an active duty petty officer 3rd class and a vocalist with the Navy Band Southeast in Jacksonville, Fla. During the competition, Stacey was temporarily assigned to the Los Angeles recruiting district.

Military officials were clearly pleased they had a certifiable star on active duty. Navy spokesmen said the service is discussing with Stacey his next assignment and whether he will join the other finalists on their tour this summer.

The top "Idol" finishers are generally required to tour after the television show is finished. Stacey could be allowed to participate in the tour as part of a recruiting assignment - the Navy could force him to use personal leave or they could release him from his military obligation.

There is precedent for the Navy releasing sailors from active duty obligations. David Robinson, a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, was allowed to enter the reserves so he could play pro basketball with the NBA's San Antonio Spurs. Robinson, known as "the Admiral" despite not reaching that rank, helped lead the team to two NBA championships.

But the Navy may have more of an interest in hanging on to Stacey.

The New Republic magazine reported last month that the USO has struggled this year to recruit celebrities for entertaining its troops in Iraq. Although the USO has blamed transportation difficulties for a declining number of tours, the magazine suggested that it may be tied to the increasing unpopularity of the war.

Although the USO may have few stars willing to go to Iraq, with Stacey, the military has a singing star it can order to perform anywhere.

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