A true American Idol Published July 31, 2013 By Airman 1st Class Apryl Hall Minot Air Force Base Public Affairs MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- Platinum recording artist and "American Idol" season 10 winner, Scotty McCreery, made another big step in his music career as he performed his very first USO show at Minot Air Force Base, July 24. Hundreds of Team Minot Airmen and their families gathered in the J.R. Rockers parking lot to enjoy food, fun and live country music. While the attendees were grateful for the entertainment, McCreery said he was grateful for the opportunity to perform. "It means the world to me," said McCreery. "This is my first time getting to do something like this and I'm extremely excited." McCreery's appreciation for the military was instilled in him at an early age. His grandfather retired from the Air Force and taught him to be grateful for what military members and their families do for the country. McCreery said because of his grandfather's service, being able to do his first USO show on an Air Force base made the experience even more special. According to McCreery, working with the USO had always been a goal of his and he was excited to follow in the footsteps of so many other country music singers who have worked with the USO. He said after talking to Airmen about the USO, it was evident how special the organization is to them. He said he learned how much the USO means to service members, especially in keeping their morale up during deployments. "The USO has been a big support and I'm proud to be a part of it," said McCreery. With a successful music career in full-swing, McCreery said he has pretty much ruled out a career in the military. However, he said he still wants to be involved when he can and continue working with the USO because it is a chance to feel like a part of the military family. Not only did McCreery express gratitude to the USO for making the show possible, but he also made it clear to everyone at the show that he was there to personally thank his American idols. He said he appreciates what service members do to protect the country and all the sacrifices made by them and their families. "Thank you so much for letting us come out today and join your family out here in your community," McCreery said to Airmen and their families during the show.