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The band originated from, and plays at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center, North Chicago, IL. in Stress Disorder Programs to unlock suppressed talents and expressive arts of veterans suffering from PTSD.
( Post Traumatic Stress Disorder)
It was through these programs that several veterans and guest musicians met.
They were so inspired that they formed the group now known as the
"Voice of Veterans".
The overwhelming effect of their dedication and music has become a featured attraction.
Veterans completing the program are returning to their home states informing
others of North Chicago's programs and promoting veterans to seek therapy.
The music and lyrics are all written and composed by members of the group from personal experiences, the love of their fellow veterans, the hardships and desperations of loved ones, family and friends.
The lyrics to "Welcome Home" featured song on their CDs
"Welcome Home" and "Welcome Home Revised"
Honors all veterans, of all nations, who have served and those who hold the value and belief of freedom so dearly.
"Welcome Home" was selected by the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Committee, Washington, DC to be performed by the Voice of Veterans at the 25th anniversary ceremonies of the Vietnam War Memorial
"The Wall". |
Songs
"No Man Left Behind", The Condemned One", I Don't Want To Talk About It"
"Old Soldiers Will To Survive"
and others
Sends an impacting message:
"We do understand their Sacrifices - They are not Forgotten"
In the words of one veteran, " I was driving home one night in one of those flash back moods you just can't shake so I popped the "Welcome Home" CD in the player. For a moment the words penetrated
me, my eyes filled with water, but as quickly as it came also came a calmness and a great sense of pride and belonging"
Meet the Band!
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Joe Klass
Composer, Lead Vocals and Guitar
Born and raised in Ohio. He Served in the 101st Airborne Division Viet Nam (1970-1971) Joe was part of a Medivac Unit. Eagle Dust-off, Retrieving soldiers from the deep northern jungle of South Viet Nam. Joe was the road manager of a Chicago Band. From 1981 to 1988, he was in a music ministry, with his band called "Witness" |
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Jim Snow
Composer, bass, and back up vocals
Producer of the "Welcome Home" cd, Jim was a bank VP for 16 years in California.
As a member of the U.S Marines from 1966-1969,
Jim served in Hue during the TET Offensive of 1968.
Jim was part of the opening act for the rock band Deep Purple |
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Gregg Rodriguez
Composer, back-up Vocals, Violin and Mandolin
Gregg studied classical violin at an early age, over the years expanding into every style of music that came his way. He has volunteed this musical talents for over eight years,
entertaining veterans and guest of various PTSD programs.
Gregg was named an Honorary Veteran
by the veterans attending Friday morning PTSD sessions.
Gregg was awarded a vest
with the patches of all uniformed services in
Honor of Volunteer Service
Gregg plays in several bands in the Chicago area.
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Mike Painter
Keyboards, Guitar, Slide, Harmonica, Mandolin, Bouzouki, Bagpipes
Mike, comes to us with a long musical background. He is, primarily, our Keyboard Player but also plays many other instruments which include: Guitar, Lap Steel Slide, Harmonica, Mandolin, Bouzouki, and Bagpipes (both the Great Highland Pipes and Scottish Small-pipes) Mike is also a Viet Nam era vet. Having served in the United States Air Force between 1975 and 1979, he is the second in a three generation Air Force family. His father, Lt. Col. (ret. Deceased) Milton M. Painter served in South Pacific during WWII and Korea, and his Son, Airman 1st class Ian C. Painter, who is currently serving as an F-16 maintenance Crew Chief in South Carolina. Mike is also a proud member of the Patriot Guard Riders. |
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Luke Legg
Drums
Luke is our newest member. Hailing from Algonquin, he has been playing music since he was seven. At only 17 years old,Luke is an accomplished musician who has an unrivaled passion for music. He is primarily a drummer, but he also plays guitar and classical piano. He also plays drums with the rock band, "Still Fallen". The Voice of Veterans is happy to have him as a member of the band. Welcome aboard Luke! |
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