“Thank you for your support of OSOT-America and our 12th Rockin’ For the Troops event,” said Executive Director Bill Rickert in a written statement to members of Operation Support Our Troops-America.
Rickert, who assumed duties as executive director two months ago when Jamie Nelson resigned the position because of a family move to Florida, expressed his appreciation to everyone who endured a very hot and humid Saturday in support of the event. He also noted the volunteers had “worked very hard over the past many months” preparing for the rock concert in support of Operation Support Our Troops-America.
“The weather held out for us and the event was a success. We will have final information and numbers in the next few weeks,” Rickert added.
“Loved the musical acts, and Rockie Lynne blew everyone away with his tribute to the Gold Star families and his tribute to the Vietnam Veterans,” said photographer James Hoch. “Not a dry eye in the house… Very moving and such a wonderful thing to do. All of the bands were good, and as I said, Rockie stole the show. He is truly dedicated to helping the veterans!”
“Your dedication has enabled us to continue our great work to support our military, their families, our families of the fallen and our veterans,” Rickert continued.
This year’s event at the Northwestern Medicine Field in Geneva, Illinois, included five bands—The Voices, 7th Heaven, Ayla Brown, Rockie Lynne, and Ryan Weaver—as well as dedicated volunteers and great sponsors that all contributed to the successful fundraiser.
Rockin’ for the Troops started in 2006 and has evolved to the military celebration of the summer in the Chicagoland area, organizers said. Proceeds benefit OSOT-America, the local grassroots nonprofit organization that delivers care packages to deployed troops around the world while also providing support to veterans and military families in the U.S.
“We will be planning Rockin’ 2019 soon and will need your support as we begin to put it together,” Rickert added, as he expressed gratitude one more time.
Operation Support Our Troops-America since 2003
Our mission is to support the morale and well-being of American forces by providing comfort, resources and education to them and their families both while they are deployed in harm’s way and after their return. As a volunteer-based nonprofit organization, we provide the opportunity for our community members to express their appreciation and also offer support for our troops. Engaged in the longest war of our country’s history and with our servicemen and women completing multiple tours of duty, we are committed to showing them that “We Have NOT Forgotten.”
For more information about OSOT-America, its programs and volunteer opportunities, visit www.osotamerica.org.
