In 2006 a small-town girl from North Carolina named Kellie Pickler found fame on American Idol's fifth season, charming even grumpy Simon.

Six years later Kellie's got three albums, tons of awards, and a freshman spot on Maxim's 2012 Hot 100 under her belt. But none of these trump Kellie's most admirable accomplishment: her unwavering support for America's troops. This past Memorial Day marked her fifth tour with the USO.

Maxim: You recently came back from your fifth USO tour. What first inspired you to get involved?
Kellie Pickler: I come from a military family. My grandfather is a retired Marine, and I've always had a great deal of respect for anyone who serves our country. It really does take someone special to sacrifice everything. I don't mean just their lives, either. There are men who are sacrificing the chance to hold their newborn baby!