In her first public appearance since the Jesse James cheating scandal and the double divorce and adoption bombshells that followed, Sandra Bullock was in good spirits.

And certainly worthy of being called the Troops' Choice.

Returning to the spotlight Saturday, she made a surprise visit to the Spike TV's Guys Choice Awards to accept the "Troops Choice" Award for Entertainer of the Year.

Presenter Robert Downey, Jr., awarded her the honor, bestowed by members of the military, and the star received a standing ovation from the Los Angeles audience.

The Blind Side Oscar winner looked stunning, too ...

THE TROOPS SUPPORT HER: And for good reason!

In addition to her good looks, the 45-year-old mom of baby son Louis' trademark, self-deprecating wit was on display as she accepted the honor last night ...

"Let's be honest here, just for a moment. We're all going to be honest, right? Did I win this for being entertainer of the year, or because of the spectacular I.E.D. [improvised explosive device] explosion that became my personal life?!"

Once the laughter subsided, she said, "No, it's okay. Because I would do it over again if it was to entertain our troops, and our extraordinary troops deserve something much more than some actress in a tight dress talking about herself."

"I would sing, but you've seen enough pain in your lifetime. I would dance - I'm a pretty good dancer, but as I mentioned, the dress is pretty tight."

She's the best.