For the second year in a row, several of our Gold Star family members attended Freedom Concerts at various locations across the country. The Freedom Alliance sponsors these concerts and the proceeds are used to provide scholarships to the children of service members who were either killed or permanently disabled in the line of duty.

On August 7, 2010, one of these concerts was held in Cincinnati at Kings Island, and the Gold Star parents of LCpl. Taylor B. Prazynski (KIA 5/9/2005 OIF), John and Carol Prazynski, attended as honored guests. After the concert John contacted Marine Parents and explained how special the day was:

“They were very gracious hosts. They met us at the front gate of Kings Island Amusement Park and escorted us to their hospitality tent. They had lunch, snacks, drinks and air conditioning. We were able to spend as much time at the park as we wanted to. We got to meet Lt. Col Oliver North, (and get a photo), and Tom Kilgannon, the CEO for the Freedom Alliance. They took us backstage to meet Michael W. Smith, and that was awesome. They took all the Gold Star Families to meet Michael W. Smith, Charlie Daniels, or the Lynyrd Skynyrd Band. They brought us and another Gold Star Family on stage during Michael W. Smith's performance and introduced us, Taylor's family, to the crowd.”

“They could not have been nicer or more hospitable. They all were very thankful for Taylor's service as a United States Marine and for his sacrifice for our Great Nation. We understand we were there on Taylor's behalf, and as one of many who have given so much in the War on Terror. It was our honor to represent everyone.”

Thanks to Carol & John Prazynski for letting us know what a wonderful time they had. We hope to continue to connect the Freedom Alliance with our Gold Star Families who would like to attend one of their concerts in the coming years.