Back in January, Christian rock band Third Day traveled to Kuwait and Iraq to perform for (and with) U.S. troops. The trip, part of the USO’s activities in the area, also included performances at Camp Arijan in Kuwait and Camp Liberty in Baghdad.
The family of Army Spc. Richard Burress (who was killed in action on January 19, 2008) said on their blog that while Burress’ flag-draped casket was transported from Iraq to Kuwait, Third Day was on the same flight. The band saw the casket loaded onto the plane, and not knowing who he was or what else to do, started praying for the soldier’s family.
I know it seems like a minor thing, a band praying for a fallen soldier, but I don’t think it was a coincidence that they were on the same flight at Burress’ casket. I think that in times of great sorrow, God puts together his people to comfort each other, even when they don’t realize it’s happening. Eventually, the family and the band connected and Third Day invited the family to the Rock The Universe event in Orlando in early September.
I know, it seems like a small story, but I’m an avid supporter of our U.S. troops. Their selfless dedication to the defense of America and all she stands for is why average idiots like myself have the freedom to sit around and write about Christian celebrites all day.
And the story, minor as it might seem, really touched my heart, and perhaps the only reason the band was on that trip was to accompany Army Spc. Richard Burress on that leg of his flight, and to bring that small comfort to the family.
I’m a sap for our men and women in uniform. What can I say?
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posted September 17, 2008 at 1:09 pm
I’m Third Day’s road pastor and had the privilege of accompanying the band on their tour of Kuwait and Iraq. It was one of the most fulfilling and humbling things that we have ever experienced, and the trip back to Kuwait next to the casket of Spc. Burress reminded us powerfully of the sacrifices that are being made on our behalf. During the trip, our devotions focused on lessons from the military that we can apply to our lives as disciples. Obedience, Discipline, Self-sacrifice, Fellowship, Purpose, and awareness of the Battle, are all things that transfer form the military life into the Christian journey. The New Living Translation defines ‘soldier’ as ‘a person on active military service’ – perhaps that’s why the apostle Paul calls us ‘fellow soldiers’.
posted March 7, 2009 at 12:56 pm
In 1998 I started listening to KlOVE when I moved to Fairbanks Alaska and eventually started following the artists and groups that I would listen to on the radio. I became a Fan of Third day (who wouldn’t) and was in Arifjan Kuwait when they played during the USO/MWR event in Jan 08. They were getting ready for their concert and were doing a sound and systems check and I remember the day was very cold and I sat outside on the frigid cold bleachers away from the stage by the volleyball court and just sat there in amazement at the fact that I was there listening to Third Day. For me it was such an amazing experience to just be there for that single moment. I was unable to stay for the concert as we were getting ready to leave that evening back to the states from our 15 month tour in Iraq. And then just 12 months later we found ourselves back in Kuwait once again getting ready to head back here to Iraq. The reason I write is is simple, I am grateful to have music groups who take the time to come out here and show the troops that they care. It fills my heart to know that you guys go out there to share your blessings and share god’s word through music for all those Soldiers who at times feel hopeless and helpless during this war. Some Soldiers dont understand the true meaning of the war and when groups like Third Day come and share their music, even though you may not see it or know it, it has a profound effect on others. They listen, they hear those words, and it helps, it works, it gives them hope. So thank you. I was saddened by the story of SPC Burress but as you can see your presence made a difference, even if it was in the life of a Fallen Soldier’s family. You guys do great things and I am happy that you continue to bless people. Have a wonderful day.