CAMP ARIFJAN, Kuwait – Third Army/ARCENT hosted a live performance by The Volunteers of the U.S. Army Field Band here, Feb. 8.
The Volunteers are the U.S. Army's premier touring show band. Since its inception in 1981, this talented six-member group has performed in all 50 states, and many other countries.
Performances by The Volunteers have included Mardi Gras, the Indianapolis 500, Nashville Now, the Calgary Stampede, and many state fairs and festivals across the country.
During the concert, the six soldiers from Fort Meade, Md., entertained service members, contractors, and DoD civilians as they covered classic rock hits from Pink Floyd and Bruce Springsteen, to contemporary tunes by Adele, Jessie J, and many more.
“Our mission is threefold,” said Sgt. Maj. Kirk Kadish, U.S. Army Field Band keyboardist and non-commissioned officer in charge. “We’re here to educate, inspire and provide entertainment to the service members here.”
Having the opportunity to travel around the globe and play for troops is a great opportunity to allow service members the chance to kick back and relax, the Melvindale, Mich., native said.
“When we come out here and play, the whole idea is to give the Warfighter a little break from reality and a chance to unwind,” Kadish explained. “We’re coming out here to hopefully ease these troops’ burdens. We have a great appreciation for what these warriors are doing, and it’s an honor and a privilege to perform for them. As a musician, there’s no other opportunity I can imagine that gives you a greater sense of fulfillment.”
Army Reservist Staff Sgt. Leon Merrill, 129th Transportation Company and Chillicothe, Mo., native, attended the event and said Third Army helped improve his morale by bringing in the Volunteers.
“I’m here because I heard the Army Field Band was good, and I wanted to see it for myself,” said Merrill. “I’m very impressed with their abilities, and it really improved my morale seeing soldiers come together from different units and form such a powerful band for our entertainment.”
Third Army’s commitment to the well-being of service members remains a priority. Through morale boosting events like The Volunteers of the U.S. Army Field Band’s live performance, Third Army is keeping spirits high for service members, the strength of our nation.