Pfcs. Mark Greene (left) and Ruben Guerrero and other attendees tried to catch Frisbees thrown into the crowd at "Rockin' the Corps" yesterday. (CHARLIE NEUMAN / Union-Tribune )
Posted on 04/03/2005 6:48:05 PM PDT by Former Military Chick
CAMP PENDLETON – "Rockin' the Corps" was billed as a star-studded, patriotic event to thank 55,000 Marines and sailors whose San Diego units have suffered the highest casualty rates in Iraq and Afghanistan.
But with the outdoor concert being broadcast to U.S. military installations worldwide, it felt more like a celebration of courage and perseverance.
Former NBA all-star Karl Malone kicked off the evening by donating $100,000 to the Marine Corps. Then longtime rocker Ted Nugent played "The Star-Spangled Banner" a la Jimi Hendrix as some Marines stood at attention.
Throughout the night, many in the crowd described the free show as a major morale-booster for the troops.
"Finally, somebody appreciates what we do," said Lance Cpl. Marcus Rodriguez, 20, of the 3rd Amphibious Assault Battalion.
That sentiment was echoed by Gunnery Sgt. Les Timmons, a 14-year veteran of the Marine Corps who came with his wife, Tracy.
"We have 18-and 19-year-old kids who have aged 10 years in six months (of deployment). Now they get home and they don't see all the people supporting them. This is like all the appreciation they need in one event," Timmons said.
Around him, the audience shouted cheers as each celebrity appeared on the 300-foot stage. It was a festive atmosphere, with beach balls bouncing everywhere, Frisbees being tossed around and people singing along to their favorite tunes.
Performers included the pop-music groups Destiny's Child and Hootie & the Blowfish, heavy-metal band Godsmack, rapper Ja Rule and vintage rock ensemble Kiss.
Making guest appearances were Sharon Stone, Marisa Tomei, Cindy Crawford, Mary J. Blige, Heather Locklear, Richie Sambora, Michelle Rodriguez, Jennifer Love Hewitt, Jennie Garth, Frankie J. and Randy Jackson, a judge on "American Idol."
Producers Quincy Jones, Joseph E. Robert Jr., Doc McGhee and Spencer Proffer organized the concert.
(Excerpt) Read more at signonsandiego.com ...
Maris Tomei was big time anti-war/Bush/America...one must ask- where was "the boss"????!!!!!
BTTT
Laura Ingraham was talking about this all last week--she was supposed to be one of the celebrity attendees, I guess.
At least we know what side SHE and Ted Nugent are on---
But, anything like this is terrific---wish I was in So. Cal so I could have gone...
I'm very happy the troops got this.....but they don't know just how many of us do support them and their effort. God bless them all
You all are very much appreciated !!! God Bless the Troops and Thank You !!!
-"Finally, somebody appreciates what we do," said Lance Cpl. Marcus Rodriguez, 20, of the 3rd Amphibious Assault Battalion.-
It sickens me that our messages of support are STILL not getting to the troops. MidEvil Media just tears 'em down.
I've been a fan of Ted's since the Amboy Dukes
and I still have the original album, VINYL RULES!
Ted always shows his patriotism...
I know, I was disappointed when I read the article and her name wasn't mentioned---
Although I would never deny any pleasure that comes to our troops, it really bothers me when the anti-war crowd uses the troops to get publicity---
Just like last year when Al Franken went to Iraq---he hasn't had a nice thing to say about Bush or the war, but goes over and gets publicity for it--
With all the sad news in the world, and our boys fighting each and every day in defense of our country, that these fine patriots would be given a brief opportunity to forget what they have been doing or what they have seen and be allowed a brief moment to back home, chillin with frosty root beer (beer if you like).
How could they go wrong with Nugent and Malone in attendance isn't that totally awesome, just had to share the good news.
Although I thought Sharon Stone wanted to move out of the country if Bush were elected. Maybe I am confusing her with the chick from the movie "Mr Mom."
I heard Quincy Jones talking to Laura Ingraham.
He is a huge military booster.
I have been wondering about this event all weekend.
I heard Quincy Jones talking to Laura Ingraham.
He is a huge military booster.
I have been wondering about this event all weekend.
Thank you for posting.
I woke up at midnight, went to the bathroom, and had to check the latest posts and the e-mail and looking out the window kept me up for the next 20 minutes watching the fireworks show. It was just as good as the one they put on on the 4th of July.
I'm happy to see them have such a great time, but sad to hear they don't know how grateful we are for all they do!
THANK YOU TO ALL WHO SERVE AND PROTECT THIS GREAT COUNTRY!
Awesome!!
;^)
Easy on the eye's I am sure.
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