Call of Duty voice actors visiting troops

Call of Duty: Black Ops II has minted over $1 billion for Activision, and now the publisher is giving back to real-world troops. Forbes reports today that Activision will donate copies of Black Ops II to military bases and hospitals across the world. In addition, several of the game's leading voice actors will embark on a tour to visit soldiers and staff.

The effort is part of a USO/Armed Forces Entertainment tour that will see Black Ops voice talent Kamar de los Reyes (Raul Menendez), James Burns (Sgt. Frank Woods), and Rich McDonald (Commander David Mason) play against troops at each tour stop beginning today and running through February 4.

"We play at war on the safety of our sound stages, with imaginary weapons and pretend enemies. These men and women face the real thing every day. We want to honor that fact and give the real heroes the attention they deserve," de los Reyes said. "I've always been humbled by the sacrifice our military and their families make every day to ensure our freedoms. I can't wait to look these men and women in the eye and express to them in person how much we appreciate their service. It's an honor that leaves me speechless."

Activision also runs the Call of Duty Endowment, a nonprofit company launched in October 2009 that helps soldiers transition to civilian careers following their military services. De los Reyes said he is happy that Activision is involved in this area, but noted there is much work to do.

"Not enough attention and support is given to our military when they transition into civilian life. It's an enormous problem, and moreover an embarrassment that we don't focus more on veteran affairs," de los Reyes said.