SAN ANTONIO - Darryl Worley, world renowned country music artist, held a free concert at the Alamodome Thursday night. The concert created a fun atmosphere for people to dance, clap their hands and sing along with Worley's popular songs.
Worley was in San Antonio as part of the entertainment for the 10th annual U.S. Army All American Bowl. The game consists of the top 90 high school football players competing against each other in an East versus West showdown.
Having long been an advocate for the Army and the military in general, Worley is always happy to perform for Soldiers who sacrifice their life to protect freedom.
"It feels great to be here and am glad to be back," Worley said.
Since the Army started sponsoring the game 10 years ago, Worley has sung at the event many times.
"This is a tradition that started for me in 2002," the singer added. "The Army appreciates me coming here, and I appreciate performing for the Soldiers."
During the bowl week isn't the only time Worley performs for Soldiers.
"I usually perform during the All American Bowl week right after I get back from singing for Soldiers overseas," he said.
Many of the players, Soldiers and fans of Worley were near the stage, enjoying a great musician up close.
"I enjoy the fact that someone so patriotic comes supports the players," said Sgt. Phillip Clumm, electronic maintenance technician, 193rd Brigade Support Battalion.
Worley has shown to be very supportive of the troops and extremely patriotic, and has toured numerous bases throughout the world.
After visiting troops in Afghanistan, Worley wrote a song called "Have You Forgotten?" The song, which captured the feelings of many Americans, is an anthem of sorts to some Soldiers.
"The song is like the national anthem to me," said Clumm. "This was my first time seeing the song performed live. It gives me chills," he added.
Another advantage for Worley of coming down to San Antonio is getting to see the high school players excel at what they do best.
"I love sports. I wish I was here to play in the game," Worley said.
When he isn't practicing, performing or watching the great athletes, Worley has a couple other favorite parts of being here.
"I enjoy the different guest speakers that are here every year," said the country music superstar. "I also enjoy hanging out with the Army band."
The Army band, which doubled as Worley's band Thursday night, has a huge fan in Worley.
"They are great," he said. "I enjoy working with them."
The feeling is mutual. While waiting to be interviewed, Worley had three band members come tell him bye, with one Soldier even giving him a hug.
A couple years ago, Worley thought he knew which team was going to win the All American Bowl, but it didn't turn out the way he thought it would, he said.
"I have no prediction on who is going to win," Worley said. "Great athletes are on both sides."
As Worley continues to entertain troops, he has gotten to know many Soldiers.
"Being in the Army brings out a discipline that otherwise wouldn't be there," Worley said. "A friend in the Army is a true friend."
Worley has a message for everyone putting their life on the line to protect our country.
"Thank you. We appreciate you," he said.
Troops throughout the world appreciate Worley too. He travels around the world and entertains them the best way he knows how. Spirits can be broken and morale can go down, but something as simple as hearing a great singer performing can be enough to rejuvenate those who protect freedom.
Date Taken: | 01.09.2010 |
Date Posted: | 01.09.2010 00:34 |
Story ID: | 43582 |
Location: | SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS, US |
Web Views: | 806 |
Downloads: | 725 |
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