ARLINGTON (1080 KRLD)- It's hard to believe that 2021 marks the 20 year anniversary of the attacks of September 11, 2001.
Lee Greenwood remembers that time all too well.
The country artist and "God Bless the U.S.A." singer performed many times in New York City in the immediate aftermath of 9/11.
"I think (the meaning) just got deeper," Greenwood says of his hit song.
"Every American flew a flag (after 9/11). I don't care whether they were wearing a turban, carrying a cross around their neck, or had tatoos on their back. They were all Americans at one time saying, 'We are now circling the wagons and defending our country.'"
North Texans can get a taste of that patriotism when Greenwood plays a 9/11 memorial concert on Saturday, September 11, at Levitt Pavillion in Arlington. The program begins at 6 p.m.
Following the opening program, country/retro rocker Deana Carter ("Strawberry Wine") will take the stage at 7 p.m. Greenwood goes on at 8:30 p.m.
"I'm a touring country artist," says Greenwood. "I know we're going to have the country fans there, we will not disapoint them with our show."
But the highlight of the night will be when Greenwood honors first responders, specifically members of the Arlington Police Department and Arlington Fire Department.
"It will be an emotional moment," Greenwood says. "It will be interactive with our audience, so just expect that."
In addition to honoring North Texas first responders, the concert's proceeds will support the Levitt's free music series, which offers 50 live shows in a range of genres each year.
Masks will be encouraged when guests are in high traffic areas. Hand sanitizing stations will also be available.
Tickets begin at $25 and are available now at levittpavilionarlington.org.
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