Friday, August 22, 2008

Grammy-Winning Oak Ridge Boys to Perform After Freedom Walk

By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service

Aug. 22, 2008 - Award-winning music will greet participants in the 4th Annual National America Supports You Freedom Walk when they reach the Pentagon on Sept. 7. Country music group the Oak Ridge Boys will perform a musical tribute at the conclusion of the walk. The musical tribute has become an important part of the walks, each tribute demonstrating the nation's patriotism through music, officials said.

"We're very pleased to have the Grammy-winning Oak Ridge Boys performing at the end of the America Supports You Freedom Walk," said Roxie T. Merritt, director of community relations and new media in the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Public Affairs. "Their patriotic music lends itself well to the spirit of the day."

The spirit of the day will be set when thousands of walkers, including Defense Department officials, gather at Arlington National Cemetery for the 9 a.m. start of the Freedom Walk. After opening remarks, a color guard will lead the group about a mile from the cemetery to the Pentagon.

The America Supports You Freedom Walk began in 2005 as a way to honor the victims of Sept. 11 and to pay tribute to veterans past and present. Since 15,000 patriots took that initial walk, more than 390 Freedom Walks have taken place in all 50 states and at
military installations around the globe.

Those interested in participating in the 4th Annual National America Supports You Freedom Walk must register at www.AmericaSupportsYou.mil/FreedomWalk. Registration closes Sept. 5.

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