California rock band plays for service members

Photo By Lance Cpl. Brian Holloran | Jared Daniels, bassist for Hollowell, performs on the stage at the Morale, Welfare and Recreation building at Al Asad, Iraq, June 29. The California based alternative rock band visited Al Asad and other installations throughout Iraq and Kuwait, as a way to show their support to the service members.  

AL ASAD, IRAQ

08.19.2006

Story by Lance Cpl. Brian Holloran 

Marine Corps Air Station Miramar

by Lance Cpl. Brian J. Holloran
3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd) Public Affairs

AL ASAD, Iraq--Hollowell, a band from Orange County, Calif., entertained a crowd of service members at the Morale, Welfare and Recreation building here June 29.

According to Jared Daniels, bassist for Hollowell, the band decided to come out to Iraq to show their support for the men and women fighting for our country.
"The is the best way we can think of to say thank you to all of the troops," said Daniels, a native of Orange County, Calif. "We need to show our support for everything the men and women over here are doing. This is the least we can do."

"The band was awesome," said Pfc. Dennis S. Miller, a motor transportation mechanic, Combat Logistics Battalion 7, 1st Marine Logistic Group. "They played a bunch of original stuff, all of which was good. I also like the fact that they are willing to leave their comfortable homes and risk their lives just to come out here and to give us one night of entertainment."

Al Asad was the last stop for the rockers on their journey across Iraq and Kuwait.

"We have been to Baghdad, Haditha and Kuwait before coming here," said Michael Slateford, drummer for Hollowell. "This our last stop before we head home. I have to admit that I am more than a little sad to leave. I really enjoy being out here with the troops."

The band has viewed this trip as a way to not only entertain the troops but to also connect with their fans.

"This is the best way to show our fans that we really care about them," said Slateford, a native of Orange County, Calif.

"These guys are great," said Miller, a native of Canton, Ohio. "Not only are they a great band, but they are willing to risk their lives to play for us. That is amazing."

• Date Taken: 08.19.2006
• Date Posted: 08.19.2006 12:33
• Story ID: 7484
• Location: AL ASAD, IQ