Michael Sagraves hates the phrase “life-changing experience,” although he can’t find a better way to describe his feelings after returning from a recent USO tour of Afghanistan and Iraq with fellow musician Billy Ray Cyrus.

“I see it all different now,” Sagraves said, explaining his tremendous respect for the American men and women serving their country in the Middle East.

“In general, everyone was in great spirits. Politics be damned — they were there for a reason and they knew it.”

Sagraves, 48, who grew up in Ashland and now lives in Mount Juliet, Tenn., serves as the musical “utility man” for Cyrus, and plays guitar, harmonica, pedal steel, mandolin, banjo and dobro during different shows. During their nine-day USO journey Sagraves played guitar and harmonica along with Cyrus and California musician Sam Hancock as part of a one-hour variety show along with comedian Dave Attell, tennis legend Nick Bolletieri and athlete/model Anna Kournikova. Watching the audience during the performances, Sagraves said he was blessed by the reaction they received.

“For that hour, these folks had no idea of the nastiness around them,” he said. “They were clapping and cheering and laughing. As for politics ... there was none of that over there.”

While the men in uniform “went wild” over Kournikova, Sagraves said Cyrus truly shined during his portion of the show.

“Billy is awesome with the military. He kind of shines in a military crowd,” Sagraves said, explaining they performed Cyrus’ big hits along with the Beach Boys classic “Little Saint Nick,” which was an unexpected hit with each audience. The song that meant the most to the military audiences, however, was Cyrus’ “Some Gave All,” Sagraves said.

“I’ve seen that song put grown men to tears,” Sagraves said, noting he believes it is possibly the best song Cyrus has written. “Military folks are very aware of that song.”

The trip to Afghanistan and Iraq provided memories for a lifetime, Sagraves said, including a flight on Air Force 2 and a helicopter flight over hostile territory in Afghanistan with the rear door open to allow a view of the countryside. Scanning the “craggly mountains” in that nation, Sagraves said he had no problem imagining the difficulty of finding anyone who might be hiding in those hills.

Sagraves, Cyrus and others were also touched by a particularly poignant moment at an air base when they witnessed a young woman’s re-enlistment ceremony. Sagraves said he was also overwhelmed by an overnight stay in one of Saddam Hussein’s palaces, which he described as an impressive structure of much marble and gold “and lavishness beyond all ridiculousness.” The next day, Sagraves said they were treated to a visit to Saddam’s personal palace, where they were greeted by “the biggest American flag I’ve ever seen.”

Like many Americans, Sagraves said he wasn’t especially familiar with the role of the USO, although he is now a major fan of the organization.

“It touched me deeply to see what they do for these guys and gals,” he said. “I was always proud of our people, but man, until you’ve been over there and met these guys and gals, you just don’t know.

“The USO is one outstanding organization,” he said, adding he wouldn’t hesitate to again make the journey to entertain troops. “Absolutely! I would do it again tomorrow and I hope I get to.”

TIM PRESTON can be reached at tpreston@dailyindependent.com or (606) 326-2651.