Celebrities for a Cause: Angelina Jolie Visits Walter Reed Military Hospital

Written by guest blogger Melissa Long

Angelina Jolie is always full of surprises! Earlier this summer, the actress and humanitarian paid a visit to our troops in DC while volunteering with the USO. But that's not what surprised us - it's that no one knew about it! The only pictures taken of the actress that day were from other volunteers and the soldiers; how she managed to slip past the media, we may never know.

The passionate humanitarian decided to spend her charitable day at Walter Reed Military Hospital, where she leisurely spent time with the injured soldiers and their families. Wearing her USO shirt, Jolie gave out gift bags to show her appreciation that included a one thousand dollar gift card to Best Buy!

Jolie's philanthropic life began after filming "Laura Croft: Tomb Raider" in Cambodia, where she witnessed the need for aid. Since then, she has become a Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations and also founded the Maddox Jolie Pitt Foundation. She also plans to finance future philantropic efforts with one-third of her income from her salary. Jolie has proven that even when she's not in the spotlight, she stays dedicated to the causes close to her heart.

If you or someone in your family is in the military, Lisa Hoffman, a skin care company, offers 50% off any items purchased through her Web site. And don't forget to check out the military page of Uptown Liz for other ways to help the Armed Forces.