Veteran Concert: a night of music and support

Written by Patricia Leboeuf

An evening of music, patriotism, and tribute to Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) veterans will take centre stage at the Festival Hall Centre for the Arts in Pembroke on Nov. 4.

The Veteran Concert promises to be a heartfelt salute to Canada’s brave veterans while showcasing incredible talent in the military community. It also acts as a fundraiser through the Robbie Dean Counselling Centre (RDCC) with proceeds supporting the Royal Canadian Legions in Pembroke and Petawawa, organizations that have long supported the community and veterans.

This concert will feature four different bands, JJ Staley Music, Jennifer Gagnon, Music Healing Veterans and Stereo Typical, all of which have serving members or veterans among their ranks. The event will also boast a production team comprised of veterans, emphasizing the commitment to making this a truly veteran-centric experience.

For many veterans, both the RDCC and the Legion have helped them navigate post-military life. And for those struggling with issues such as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), music can be a way to express one’s deep and complicated feelings in a healthy and positive way.

“We have a large veteran community and we have a large music community in this area,” said Jay Baker, the driving force behind the event. “… It all turned into a natural fit.”

He believes in giving back to the community and supporting those who have dedicated their lives to service.

“We all had our reasons to serve,” said Baker. “They aren’t all the same, but the base of it is that we all joined up to make a better place. When you release you don’t just forget about those values. The veteran bands just jumped to help the community around them.”

The event is also an opportunity to hear the stories and experiences of veterans. Between performances, the audience will be treated to one or two-minute video clips, sharing the narratives of these courageous individuals. The partnership with the Legions and the emphasis on mental health services through the RDCC highlight the concert’s commitment to the well-being of veterans, both in terms of financial support and mental health resources.

“You don’t serve for 20 years and come out completely unscathed,” said Baker.

“So we need to have a robust mental health system in place.”

Doors open at Festival Hall at 6 p.m., and tickets are $30 with 100 per cent of all the proceeds going to the Pembroke and Petawawa Legions. An after-party will be held at J & E’s Bored N’ Saucy.

For more information or to purchase tickets, please visit www.rdccevents.com.

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