Vertical Horizon kicks off Ready First Summer Concert Series

Photo By Spc. Jessica Luhrs-Stabile | Rock band Vertical Horizon performs during their first tour in Iraq to kick-off the “Ready First” Summer Concert Series on Forward Operating Base Warrior in Kirkuk, Iraq, July 6.  

KIRKUK, IRAQ

07.06.2010

Story by Pfc. Jessica Luhrs-Stabile 

1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division

The band known for their chart-topping hits "Everything You Want" and "You’re a God", described the experience as one that would not soon be forgotten.

“We are glad to be here, when we found out we had the opportunity to come to Iraq for the first time we were ecstatic this will not be an experience we will ever forget,” said lead vocalist and founder, Matt Scannell, before the band began their hour-long performance.

The Vertical Horizon concert was just one of many performances planned for service members of FOB Warrior, according to Air Force Staff Sgt. Aurimar Hernandez, non-commissioned officer in charge of protocol for the 506th Air Expeditionary Group.

“The Joint Visitors Bureau along with the Morale Welfare and Recreation Center have come together to schedule performances by the Comic’s Ready to Entertain, Air Force Band Tops in Blue, Ja Rule and there is still more to come,” said Staff Sgt. Hernandez, who is deployed from Travis Air Force Base, Calif. and a native of Orocovis, Puerto Rico.

She also said these concerts are necessary for the well-being of all deployed service members.

“After all we do day to day it is always comforting to be able to relax and enjoy sometime with coworkers, friends, brothers and sisters,” she said.

The “Ready First” senior career counselor agreed these concerts are just what the service members need.

“These concerts give soldiers a taste of home and an opportunity to be up close and personal with entertainers,” said Master Sgt. Hayward Smith an El Paso, Texas, native.

• Date Taken: 07.06.2010
• Date Posted: 07.09.2010 03:47
• Story ID: 52570
• Location: KIRKUK, IQ