WVU Police Officer's National Anthem Performance Goes Viral

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. (AP) - A West Virginia University police officer has gained national attention after his unexpected performance of the national anthem at a basketball game went viral.

Multiple media outlets report Officer Carlton Smith sang "The Star-Spangled Banner" at the West Virginia-Kansas game in Morgantown on Jan. 12.

Smith says organizers, who knew he was a vocalist, asked him to step in after a winter storm prevented the scheduled performer from singing the anthem at the game.

Smith sang a capella and says he didn't have any time to prepare beforehand.

A video of his performance posted on YouTube has received more than 350,000 views.

Smith says the best part about this experience is receiving recognition for singing a song that has a special place in his heart.

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