For Memorial Day

 

Here's my unusual offering for Memorial Day. Back in 1991, a group of musicians, actors and celebrities got together on a record and video to boost the morale of troops then involved in Operation Desert Storm, as well as raise money for the American Red Cross.  The group and the song were both known as "Voices That Care."

Musicians contributing included Peter Cetera, Randy Travis, Little Richard, the Pointer Sisters, Luther Vandross, Garth Brooks and Michael Bolton. Mark Knopfler contributed a guitar solo, and Kenny G added a sax solo.  A lot of other musicians and artists were in the chorus, including Sheena Easton, Will Smith, Kevin Costner, Rick Deez, Whoopi Goldberg, Mariel Hemmingway, Michael Jordan, Brooke Sheilds, Stephen Stills, and many others.

The final product is a little schmaltzy, very much a 1991 item, but its heart is in the right place. As the words convey, one does not have to agree with all the military decisions that are made by those in power to appreciate those who have served our country, especially in the most difficult circumstances.  Deep respect in particular to those who have given the ultimate sacrifice.