Alas, Betty White declines invitation to Marine Corps ball

Two Hollywood stars -- Mila Kunis and Justin Timberlake -- have accepted invitations to attend one of the Marine Corps birthday balls in November.

But Betty White, 89, although flattered, says she cannot accept the invitation of Sgt. Ray Lewis, a Marine recruiter  and rapper currently stationed in Texas whose invitation came in a video posted on YouTube.

"I am deeply flattered and truly appreciate the invitation," White said in a statement released by her publicist. "As everyone knows, I love a man in uniform ... but unfortunately I cannot accept, as I will be taping an episode of 'Hot in Cleveland.'"

The statement ended: "Love, Betty White."

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-- Tony Perry in San Diego

Photo: Betty White. Credit: Matt Sayles / AP