So many Americans have given so much for our Country. That sacrifice is often put to the side by many other troubles on our own doorsteps. The economy, political struggles and even the daily routine take up so much. However, there are those that step in and run with the efforts to never let these sacrifices be forgotten.

Several months ago the Martinsville Speedway held an event to announce some of these efforts to assist an injured United States Marine. Corporal J. B. Kerns was injured in Afghanistan on his third tour of duty. A terrorist’s IED roadside bomb left Kerns with amputated legs and an arm. Kerns is one who remembers that others in his outfit and all over the conflict do not come back at all.

The presentation at Martinsville Speedway included two people representing two organizations coming together to raise funds to build specialized houses that injured Soldiers can call their own. One of these homes is designated for Cpl. J.B. Kerns. Frank Siller of “Tunnel to Towers” and actor Gary Sinise with the “Gary Sinise Foundation” and his “Lt. Dan Band” were in Martinsville to announce a special fundraising show which was to happen on March 30 in conjunction with Sprint Cup race weekend.

The “Tunnel to Towers” Foundation honors firefighters, police and soldiers injured or lost since the Twin Towers terrorist attacks on 9-11. Frank’s brother, Stephen Siller, was killed while running to assist his brethren with rescue efforts. The “Gary Sinise Foundation” also promotes efforts to honor veterans and first responders across the Country. Together, these organizations work together for “Building Homes For Heroes”.

That show had to be rescheduled. Gary Sinise was injured when a car collided with one in which he was a passenger. The injuries were minor but enough that the show had to be set for another date.

This is when another group stepped in. “Rooster Walk” is a local music festival entering it’s fourth year of honoring two young citizens of the Martinsville, VA area. Edwin “The Rooster” Penn & Walker Shank were two young men who loved life, friends and music. “Rooster Walk” combines their names and memory with a festival that raises funds for a scholarship in their name.

The folks at “Rooster Walk”, in conjunction with local organizers, got together and set the “Lt. Dan Band” fundraising show for Cpl. J.B. Kerns to begin the festival festivities. Thursday, May 24th, in a scenic country setting on a beautiful evening, Gary Sinise hit the stage with his band and put on a fantastic, uplifting show.

For more than 2,000 people the band played for over two hours covering several genres and styles. Speed artist Scott LoBiado showcased the painting of an American Flag in mere minutes while patriotic music played in the overhead before the show. That painting was auctioned off at the show for an additional $5,000.00 to go to the fund. Other local organizations were announced to assist with plumbing and furniture for the home of Cpl. J.B. Kerns.

The show was an exciting culmination of efforts put forth by a racetrack, a community, a brother and an actor. All the while reminding the rest of us that what they did in creating this show does not begin to compare to what the men and women in uniform do for us every day.

Find more information and donate to these causes online:

Tunnel to Towers | Gary Sinise Foundation | Lt. Dan Band | Rooster Walk | Martinsville Speedway

Photos from the Lt. Dan Band show at Rooster Walk