Country Stars Show Country’s Military Families Some Love

by Cassie Sullivan When you think of patriotism, you likely think of “Americana”- the flags and countryside and down-home cooking.  Well where do you see lots of that décor represented in the USA? In country music! Country musicians have the spirit of showing their love of God, Home, Country and Family.  Among these musicians, you also find lots of care for military personnel who defend the country, and their families whom they have to leave behind.  Organizations that provide financial, emotional, and other types of support also have spokespeople and volunteers, generous donors, and more- in famous country musicians.  Lee Brice, singer of hits like: I Drive Your Truck and Hard to Love, is especially known for his philanthropy with, Folds of Honor, a non-profit that “provides educational support to spouses and children of America’s fallen and wounded soldiers”.  He also surprised a military widow and her children with a truck that had belonged to their late patriarch.  He had been an F-16 pilot and this truck had been in the family for many years before he deployed.  In addition to Lee Brice, there is the young and talented Hunter Hayes who just partnered with Heartgard and the Warrior Canine Connection to “bring healing with dogs to military veterans, US Service members, and their families”.  Hunter shows his love all the time online for his rescue dog Cole, and this partnership is a classic match-up. Then there’s Josh Turner, a former Army Ranger who wrote a song for military members, has performed at Fort Carson, and after graduating from Liberty University for his undergrad and seminary schooling, he continues to give back there as a chaplain and performing at the school’s Military Family Fun Day.  He and many others have been part of “The Boot Campaign” which “encourages Americans to purchase a pair of army combat boots to wear in support of our nation’s troops.  Proceeds from the boot sales are donated to partner charities, including Luttrell’s Lone Survivor Foundation.” Jake Owen has headlined in a Military Appreciation Day concert, brought troops from his audience at another show, up on stage with him, and will be performing this year at the “Patriotic Festival.” So, as we reflect on just a few of the country musicians who have shown support to our military service men and women, what else is common among those mentioned?  THEY ALL WILL BE PERFORMING HERE THIS SEASON.  Don’t wait to get tickets to see these amazing country acts, as they will go fast.  Show your support to the good work these artists do, while listening to their music under the tent, on a beautiful New England summer evening, with friends, family, and fun.