Atlas Falls was one of the local bands that performed during the summer Music for Vets concert. The band includes, from left, Jerad Leisch, Amy Rasdall, Kenny Starling, and Matt Cutting.
Tom Niemiec helped organize and spoke at the Music for Vets summer concert.
Luke and Rori Zampedri jammed out along with ZAM Trip at the Music for Vets concert.
This past Friday, the American Legion Post 28 in Green River hosted a heartwarming and electrifying "Music for Veterans" summer concert, marking the first summer edition of the cherished annual event.
Tom Niemiec, the finance officer at the American Legion and the event organizer, shared the journey behind the event. While Music for Veterans traditionally takes place during the winter, the chance to expand the event came up this year.
"We had an opportunity for a summertime concert when Circles We Draw, a band touring from Denver to the West Coast, reached out to us," Niemiec explained. "It seemed like the perfect chance to extend our annual tradition into the summer."
The evening featured performances by local bands Atlas Falls and ZAM Trip, along with Circles We Draw, captivating the audience with a mix of rock and heartfelt tunes. Attendees of all ages enjoyed the free event, with donations encouraged to support the Veterans Relief Fund.
"This concert was a thank you to our sponsors and a way to kick off our main event in January," Niemiec explained.
This year's special summer concert received two sponsorships, according to Niemiec, with a $2,000 sponsorship from Contango and a $1,000 sponsorship from Stacy's Sheets. Niemiec also explained that proceeds from this event will go toward the January event, and he estimated that the summer concert also raised an additional $1,000. Proceeds from the concerts support the Veterans Relief Fund, which provides grants to veterans in need.
"We've assisted veterans with utility bills, emergency repairs, and medical appointments. Since 2020, we've seen an increase in younger veterans needing assistance," Niemiec shared.
The new summer concert highlighted the community's continued generosity and unity.
"Our community is incredibly supportive. This event wouldn't be possible without our sponsors and the dedication of bands like ZAM Trip, who have been involved since the beginning," Niemiec said.
The Music for Veterans series, originally created by ZAM Trip, has grown over the past decade to become the largest music event in Green River, attracting attendees from across the nation.
"We've had people travel from as far as California, Oregon, Washington, Utah, Idaho, and Wisconsin to be part of this," Niemiec noted.
This year's summer event also received a special feature in a documentary being filmed by Circles We Draw, adding to its significance.
Beyond the musical performances, the summer Music for Veterans also offered a Taste of South Texas food truck, cornhole games, and outdoor speakers that allowed those outside to enjoy the music. It was open to all and free to participate in.
"It was about creating a fun, family-friendly atmosphere where people could come together for a great cause," Niemiec added.
Niemiec expressed gratitude to everyone who attended and supported the event.
"If you couldn't make it this past Friday, be sure to join us in January for our main event," he added. "It's a night of diverse music and community spirit, all for a great cause."
For more information and to stay updated on future events, visit the Music for Veterans Facebook page.
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