Country Mike Blog

George Strait supports U.S. Troops

Mike Sudhalter  |  January 11, 2011

George Strait has done a lot of things throughout his career as modern day country music's standard-bearer.

He's been the most consistent artist in any genre of music, he's represented the state of Texas as a true gentleman and proved that fiddle and steel guitar still have a place in today's country music.

He's also a Red Shirt.

No, he's not taking up college athletics in his late 50's. Different kind of Red Shirt.

Last month, Strait wore red to show his support for U.S. Troops as part of Red Shirt Fridays, a non-political organization that shows U.S. service personnel that Americans support their sacrifice, and the fact they are willing to risk their lives to defend our freedoms.

Strait, who served in the U.S. Army in the early 1970's, said he's proud to be part of the Red Shirt organization.

"The holidays are a time to be with your family and friends and to be thankful and I can't think of a better gift to the women and men serving our country than to show them how much we appreciate them and are thinking about them," said Strait. "It's a small gesture but together it does make a difference especially for those who can't be here with us."

"Starting this Friday we are going to wear red shirts to every Friday's tour date and we encourage the fans to do the same," exclaims Strait. "I want to see a building full of red shirts if possible."

So, if you're going to be attending Strait's show at UT's Frank Erwin Center in Austin, leave your Burnt Orange at home and show up wearing Red.