Nacogdoches gets publicity in 'Charlie's War'

HOUSTON — Former East Texas representative Charlie Wilson was known for his hard-partying, controversial lifestyle. So a mention of First Baptist Church of Nacogdoches probably was probably not expected in the new motion picture "Charlie Wilson's War."

A scene from Wilson's office in Washington, D.C. features Wilson (Tom Hanks) talking to "Larry Liddle." Larry (Peter Gerety) who is complaining to Wilson about the "Nacogdoches Township" not allowing him to build a nativity on his Dairy Queen store. Wilson tells Larry he should try putting the scene on First Baptist Church of Nacogdoches, because it has such a "big lawn."

Dr. Allen Reed, pastor of First Baptist Church, was unaware that his church would be mentioned in a major motion picture, but did find the reference to be humorous.

"That's news to me," Reed, who has served the church since 1981, said with a laugh. "Though he represented the area, I'd be surprised if there is any real connection."

In the next scene, Wilson is at his D.C. apartment with a half-naked "Jane Liddle." Jane (Emily Blunt) tells Wilson that D.C. is "hotter than Nacogdoches."

In the book, also titled "Charlie Wilson's War," there is no character named "Larry Liddle" or "Jane Liddle" so it is likely this part of the film was fictionalized.

In a later scene, Joanne Herring (Julia Roberts) pleads with Wilson to help her take down the Soviet Empire by assisting Afghanistan in a covert war.

"I'm working on a Dairy Queen problem in Nacogdoches," Wilson replies.