Trace Adkins pays tribute to service members and families at Ramstein

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Ciara M. Travis
  • 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
RAMSTEIN AIR BASE, Germany --  In honor of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, country music icon Trace Adkins performed for the Kaiserslautern Military Community at a concert in Hangar 3, here Sept. 11.

The concert was headed up by the United Services Organization, Armed Forces Entertainment and the 86th Force Support Squadron and was open to all military ID card holders.

"It's such a humbling feeling to be held in such high esteem of those that serve their country," said Adkins. "It's also very flattering and I certainly enjoy it."

The USO veteran has done several tours down range and says that he does it because of the utmost respect he has for the troops.

"I've said this before, and I'll say it again -- as long as people are deployed, I will keep going," said Adkins. "As the anniversary of 9/11, this day is a somber day for me."

Adkins volunteered to perform for service members, despite the recent loss of his home to an electrical fire.

"I think it's great that artists go out of their way to show service members their appreciation," said Senior Master Sgt. David Scott, USAFE ground safety manager. "It means a lot to have someone like Trace Adkins come and act as almost a voice of appreciation for those back in the states."

The concert ended with Akins singing about a service member who gave the ultimate sacrifice -- his life. In the song 'Arlington,' the lyrics speak from the fallen service member's perspective who was buried on the sacred grounds of Arlington.

"It was such a wonderful concert," said Scott. "He did such a good job at making us feel at home again -- even if it was for just a few hours."

The concert was broadcasted live on the American Forces Network Pentagon channel and aired to most of the area of responsibility.

"Just know we are behind you 100 percent," said Adkins. "And remember that you have [America's] support and prayers."