The Nevada Silver Tappers brought talent, patriotism, and heartfelt community spirit to Pahrump during their annual USO benefit show, held on Saturday, September 13, and Sunday, September 14. This year’s production, Another Opening, Another Show, paid tribute to the nation’s servicemen and women while raising support for local veterans’ causes.
The evening began with a moving invocation by Deacon Mitch, who prayed for unity, protection, and blessings over families, communities, and those serving in uniform. Air Force Lieutenant Colonel Dr. Tom Waters then took the stage to lead the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance, reminding everyone of the importance of being thankful for their country.
Executive Director Barbara Jean “BJ” Hetrick-Irwin welcomed the audience and extended her appreciation to local veterans and the supportive community who make the annual show possible. Along with co-directors Kim Cornell-Lyle and Ione DeSantis, Hetrick-Irwin dedicated this year’s performance to the loving memory of Ellen Maborang, a Silver Tapper who passed away just weeks before the show. The troupe honored her with a moment of silence and heartfelt words: “Rest in peace, Ellen. Your sisters will miss you, and this performance is for you.”
The production also paused to honor active-duty service members and veterans in the audience, recognizing their courage and sacrifice. In its history, the Nevada Silver Tappers’ USO shows have raised more than $30,000 for organizations including Disabled American Veterans Chapter 15, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 10054, the Salvation Army Pahrump Corps, and Southern Nye County Search and Rescue. This year, the group added the Pahrump Springs Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) as a recipient.
A portion of the evening also highlighted the tradition of placing coins on military headstones—a quiet but powerful gesture of respect that carries distinct meanings. Audience members were encouraged to carry forward this act of remembrance when visiting cemeteries to honor fallen service members.
Performances carried the audience across the globe, including a lively tribute to Paris and a nod to Josephine Baker performed by Marjorie Washington Lear. The show seamlessly blended dazzling tap routines with patriotic themes, reflecting the Silver Tappers’ long-standing commitment to celebrating veterans and inspiring the community.
Midway through the evening, the group launched a food drive in support of the VFW Food Bank and the local DAR chapter. Junior Vice President of the VFW, Bonnie Darrell, shared how their food bank has served between 160 and 200 veterans and families each month for the past 16 years, thanking the community for its generosity. She encouraged attendees to donate canned fruits and meats, especially as Thanksgiving approaches.
The program also recognized Hetrick-Irwin’s lifelong dedication to supporting veterans, noting her family’s deep military ties spanning multiple generations of Army, Navy, Marine, and Air Force service. For more than 30 years, the Nevada Silver Tappers and the Miss Senior Golden Years organization have brought companionship, joy, and entertainment across Southern Nevada, leaving a legacy of giving that Hetrick-Irwin has proudly led.
The grand finale featured a rousing performance of “Yankee Doodle Dandy,” bringing the crowd to its feet with patriotic pride and thunderous applause. The evening closed as it began—with gratitude, remembrance, and a heartfelt reminder of the importance of honoring America’s veterans.
