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Zac Brown deeply understands the sacrifices made by military service members and their families. This awareness drives him to meet with veterans before his concerts, honoring them publicly during his performances.
Brown expressed his admiration for these heroes, stating, “They are such incredible people. Their stories inspire me, and bringing them on stage to share a moment of gratitude with the audience amplifies the appreciation for their sacrifices. Many of my friends are in the military, and having lived with several of them over the years has shown me their remarkable character and ultimate sense of service.”
On this Memorial Day, Brown will receive the inaugural Veterans Voice Award at the American Music Awards from the Easy Day Foundation. This accolade recognizes his steadfast support for the veteran community.
“This award is significant to me because it will raise awareness for veterans programs,” Brown elaborated. “The more people know about how deserving these incredible individuals are, the more assistance we can provide them.”
Reflecting on the sacrifices made by service members, Brown stated, “They endure significant hardships, impacting their family lives, mental wellness, and overall well-being, all for our freedom and safety. It is an honor and privilege to give back to them.”
More than ten years ago, the country star established a camp in Georgia dedicated to serving veterans and children.
“We conduct 34 weeks of veteran programs yearly,” he recounted. “Our camp hosts Bernie Marcus’s Warrior Path initiative, which aids transitioning service members and those battling PTSD. This foundation assists them in discovering community and purpose as they navigate their new chapters in life.”
Brown’s camp also features the Warrior Song program, which allows veterans to share their stories through songwriting. “Many find it challenging to communicate their experiences to civilians. Here, they collaborate with talented songwriters to express and vocalize their journeys, ultimately helping them shed the burdens they carry silently,” he explained.
Additionally, Camp Southern Ground conducts a family camp designed to help service members reconnect with their families. Brown noted, “This initiative equips them with tools to view their families as their units upon returning from deployment. It fosters relationships essential for successful marriages and parenting, ensuring they can support each other effectively.”
“I take immense pride in the initiatives we’re spearheading there,” he added.
The Veterans Voice Award aims to spotlight artists like Brown who leverage their platforms for veteran advocacy.
Describing the profound stories he has encountered, Brown shared, “One friend, Ollie, recounted how he acknowledges his inner demons. He strives to keep them in view, chained before him, allowing awareness of their presence and motivation to confront them. It’s a daily decision to overcome these challenges.”
Other veterans have expressed how impactful his music has been during their deployments. “I have visited Iraq, Afghanistan, and Kuwait multiple times to perform for the USO, often at remote bases where soldiers haven’t had a touchpoint with home for extended periods. Some were grieving the loss of fellow service members when we arrived,” he recalled.
During one of these visits, the band filmed a music video for their song Free at a base.
“As soon as we unveiled the guitars and speakers, the soldiers’ eyes lit up. Music momentarily reminded them of their purpose and sacrifices,” Brown described. “They dedicate years to our nation, granting us the freedom to enjoy our lives. Hearing their stories impacts me immensely, and it’s vital to acknowledge and appreciate those who protect us.”
Brown’s recognition coincides with the importance of Memorial Day. “I believe it’s essential for Americans to reflect on this day. Countless individuals have fought and sacrificed for our freedom, and I’m grateful the American Music Awards and the Easy Day Foundation are intentionally honoring this at Monday’s event,” he stated.
He continued, “In America, we all have the right to voice concerns, yet many have not experienced the realities of life in other countries. Despite challenges, the opportunities present here are unmatched. People from any background can achieve the American dream, and veterans play a pivotal role in making this possible.”
“Creating music as a career is one of my greatest joys,” Brown shared. “This privilege exists due to the freedoms protected by our veterans and service members.”
Brown’s personal ties to the military run deep. He emphasized, “It’s an honor to sit with them, listen to their experiences, and understand their journeys. This includes friends like Joe Maynard, who started a knife company after service. Joe Hartbank, whom I lived with, is another inspiring individual who overcame significant challenges and found purpose in his passions.”
Brown recounted a poignant memory of Hartbank presenting him with a medal for saving troops during an ambush, linked to the impact of Brown’s song Natural Disaster on his life.
“It’s a privilege to connect with such remarkable individuals,” he stated. “I encourage everyone with a passion for veterans and children to explore opportunities with Camp Southern Ground. Contributing to a meaningful cause beyond oneself is crucial. We welcome anyone interested in collaborating with us.”
“Our camp provides extensive training and resources. We are committed to continuous improvement each year, resulting in a top-tier experience for participants,” he added. “Being recognized is an honor, but the opportunity to spread awareness allows us to learn how to support one another better. God bless America and those who protect our freedoms.”
The American Music Awards and Easy Day Foundation will provide performances and share inspiring stories from active service members and veterans at the upcoming event. Additionally, funds raised will support numerous veterans’ organizations nationwide.
A portion of ticket sales will benefit the Easy Day Foundation and its partners, while dedicated seating at the AMAs will accommodate veterans.
