Editorial: 100 years of Hope — and entertainment

Tuesday, July 29, 2003 | 8:40 a.m.

In 1971, after entertaining U.S. Army troops in Frankfurt, Germany, Bob Hope walked toward an exit with the cast of his show. Among the stars surrounding him were Cincinnati Reds catcher Johnny Bench, actress Ursula Andress, and singer/actress Lola Falana. Although the show was over, Hope wasn't. Spotting his military police escort, he said, "Where we going, the pokey?" When told the next stop was Hanau, Hope did one of his famous double takes, shrank backward and stuttered, "Wha...wherr...?" Again he was told Hanau, but with the explanation this time that it was a little town just east of Frankfurt. "At first I thought you said Hanoi!" Hope said, getting laughs all the way out the door.

That was the Bob Hope service members knew, the man surrounded by stars who could entertain you nonstop. Even hard-bitten sergeants who were never seen laughing couldn't resist his one-liners and stage antics.

While he may be best remembered for his dedication to the troops, it shouldn't be forgotten that Hope was an exceptionally gifted dancer, singer, actor and comedian who mastered vaudeville, Broadway, radio, television and film. Bob Hope died Sunday at age 100. We were fortunate to live in his time.