Marines


Combat Center News
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Twentynine Palms, California
Marine Air Ground Task Force Training Command and Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center
Photo Information

Rodney Atkins, country music singer, performs for Combat Center patrons during the ‘We Salute You Fest’ at Lance Cpl. Torrey L. Gray Field, May 9, 2015. In addition to Atkins’ performance, the event featured a Family Fun Day and Commanding General’s Car and Bike show. (Official Marine Corps photo by Pfc. Levi Schultz/Released)

Photo by Pfc. Levi Schultz

Music festival salutes Combat Center

13 May 2015 | Pfc. Levi Schultz Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms

Marine Corps Community Services hosted the ‘We Salute You Fest’ at Lance Cpl. Tory L. Gray Field, May 8 through 9, 2015 to thank the Marines of the Combat Center.

The event featured live performances from rock bands Buckcherry and Adelitas Way, May 8 and country music singers Rodney Atkins and Caroline Kole, May 9.

“It’s a very inspiring and encouraging experience to perform for Marines,” Kole said. “Performing gives me so much joy, and being able to bring that joy to an important place like this is wonderful.”

According to Atkins, the most enjoyable performances in his experience have been for service members.

“I perform shows all over the country, but there is nothing like the energy I got from playing for Marines and soldiers,” Atkins said. “It’s incredible to be able to sing about the things they fight for.”

In addition to the live musical performances, the Commanding General’s Car and Bike Show and a Family Fun Day were held, May 9.

“Events like these are great because they get us out of the barracks to spend time with our fellow Marines,” said Cpl. Dylan Richmond, administrative clerk, Headquarters Battalion. “We don’t have to leave town and it saves us time and money.”

The car and bike show featured vehicles entered by Combat Center patrons, who competed for the People’s Choice Award. The show was open to all vehicle makes, models and eras.

During the Family Fun Day, MCCS also provided activities such as; balloon artists, a henna tattoo station, a face painting station, a Ferris wheel, static displays of military vehicles and inflatable attractions.

“It’s our way of thanking [service members] for what they do,” said Celina Laserna, special events organizer, Marine Corps Community Services. “It’s fulfilling to give back to them for all the sacrifices they make.”
Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms