Trace Adkins has often spoken about his appreciation for the military, writing many songs that pay homage. Did the country star also enlist?
Trace Adkins has never served in the military, but it is very clear from statements and songs released by the country music artist that he fully supports them however he can.
Adkins has never been shy about letting everyone know his opinion on the military and those who enlist. Whenever the subject has arisen in interviews or discussions, he will be quick to give his opinion and send his love to those in service of his country.
Adkins’ Interest in Civil War History
Adkins’ dedication to his countries military and those who enlist is logical when taking into consideration his personal connection to the topic and its history. Adkins’ main exposure to the concept of soldiery and war began close to home, with his family.
The Civil War is one of the most important periods of American history, and the one that many, many Americans will potentially have a personal connection to due to how far-reaching the effects were.
This is especially true for Adkins who was born in the south and who had ancestors that were participants in the war. He recounts a story where his grandfather took him aside and recounted his family’s story, particularly that of his great grandfather, who was a private in the Louisiana Infantry.
The southern states of America are littered with historical sites relevant to the Civil War, and Adkins’ fascination with the preservation for those sites and the various battlefields scattered throughout the southern states led him to become a member of the Civil War Trust’s Board of Trustees.
Furthering his advocacy for the preservation of the history of the south, Adkins is a member of the Sons of Confederate Veterans.
Other than the historical element that Adkins demonstrates a deep interest in, Adkins’ own comments about the group and his involvement indicate an idolization of history, the military, and those who put their lives on the line for something they believed in.
Adkins’ Efforts for the USO
As his own way to try and give back to the veterans and the military, Adkins has been a long-time supporter of the USO. The organization helps to support troops both at home and abroad, with Adkins specifically making the trip out to boost the morale of troops wherever possible.
Adkins has done a number of tours with the USO, over ten, and showers the entire process with as much love as expected from the pro-veteran singer. He has stated in multiple interviews that performing for service members has been some of the most rewarding work that he has done.
Although he does enjoy it, his reverence for the sacrifice being made by the service members has left him feeling remorseful about the fact that he has the privilege of being able to return to his home.
Despite that, it appears to be something that he intends on doing for many more years to come, especially when considering not only his life long passion for military history but his respect for the current generation of troops.
Charity Work for the Military
Seeking to help in any way he can, Adkins has also endorsed and supported the Wounded Warrior Project, a charity that helps to improve the lives of those who have sacrificed in the name of their country.
He has mentioned both in the advertisements and in personal statements how important it is that he is able to give back in some way. Aside from the dedication to the USO and the work with Wounded Warrior, he is a long-time supporter and donator to a variety of other charities.
Tributes in Song
Many of the sentiments mentioned across the course of this article can all be heard throughout the lyrics of many different Adkins songs. He has stated himself that he likes to include at least one song on each album that pays tribute in some way to those in the military.
This is most easily demonstrated by looking at his song and the music video that it inspired, “Still a Soldier”. The pro-service nod in the lyrics aside, the video itself starred a real veteran to represent the song, Army Specialist Bryan Gerwitz.
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