Bob Hope arrives for Christmas to entertain the troops in Da Nang, Vietnam. 1967 Hope, Bob (orig. Leslie Townes Hope) US (English-born) actor and comedian; host or co-host of Academy Awards ceremony eighteen times 1939-1977; with Bing Crosby, co-starred in seven "Road" movies 1940-1962; known for overseas tours entertaining US troops, especially at Christmas, beginning in 1941; co-wrote memoir "Don't Shoot, It's Only Me" 1990; named honorary US veteran by Congress 1997 (only person to be so designated) _1903-2003