Phil Stacey left the competition last week on American Idol. The active-duty sailor is petty officer 3^rd class and a vocalist with the Navy Band Southeast in Jacksonville, FL. He was temporarily assigned to the Los Angeles recruiting district while on Idol. Military spokespeople have mentioned that they are in talks with Stacey as to what his next assignment will be.

Perhaps the Navy will allow Stacey to participate in the Idols’ tour as a “recruiting assignment” or ask him to use personal leave while touring. He may, like former San Antonio Spur basketball player, David “The Admiral” Robinson, be allowed to enter the Reserves. Another option would be to release Phil from his military obligations altogether.

However, the Navy might not want to do that. As a result of ‘certain factors’ the USO is having trouble getting stars to go over to Iraq and entertain the troops. Stacey, who joined the Navy in 2003 and is committed to serve ‘til the fall of 2008, is a bona fide military celebrity. He could be very useful. Phil, who often goes out to high schools with the Navy Band, could also be a major recruiting force if he continues in that capacity.

Stacey, for his part, is loyal. He admits that his “primary responsibility is to the United States Navy.  The possibility exists that they'll need me for a mission, and if that's the case, I'm committed to following through with my commitment to the Navy.”

Phil singing with the Navy Band as seen on American Idol: