Concert brings out patriotism

Sunday, 08 July 2012 by Ashley Corn

Those in attendance stand together and sing the National Anthem at the Mayborn Campus Center on Suday.With tears welling in her eyes as the song "Livin' In the Homeland" played, Christina Peterson said, "The one thing Texas has is patriotism."

This is her second year attending the annual God and Country concert.

"My husband SSG Peterson is in the band and it's awesome as usual," she said. "I love coming here."

On Sunday at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor Mayborn Campus Center, the 41st annual God and Country Concert was held.

Like every year, The 1st Cavalry Division Band of Fort Hood and the Worship Choir of First Baptist in Belton gave heart-wrenching performances.

Everyone in the stadium rose from their seats and joined their voices to sing our country's national anthem.

"We realize that freedom isn't free," Pastor of First Baptist Church Andy Davis said. "But it has been bought with the blood shed of many brave men and women."

With that being said, World War II Veterans and any men and women that have served or are currently serving for our nation were asked to stand and be recognized.

Along with that, the widows and widowers were also acknowledged for their support and strength.

An emotional reading of various letters sent from war and from home was read by Caleb Parr, Denise Whitley, and Randy Hale. The audience listened in awe with tears streaming down their faces as a mothers desperate plea to find out how her son died was read.

The Laying of the Wreath, in honor of fallen soldiers was presented by Major (Ret.) Ed Thomas.

"Oh I always enjoy myself every single year," said Kellie Sylvester, who has attended the concert for many years. "My father served in the army for 21 years. There's not one particular thing I can think of that I look forward to the most about God and Country. I love it all."

The concert ended with the retiring of the colors and "God Bless America" being sung loud and proud by everyone that attended.

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