CAMP BUEHRING, Kuwait -- The Marines and sailors of the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) arrived in Kuwait just in time to catch a live performance by the popular alternative rock band Yellowcard at the Oasis Recreation Center stage here tonight.
The 11th MEU (SOC), from Camp Pendleton, Calif., is conducting sustainment training here as part of their six-month deployment throughout the Western Pacific Ocean and Arabian Gulf region.
Three members of the band, Ryan Key, Sean Mackin and Ryan Mendez played acoustic version of some of their favorite hits throughout the night and sent a clear message to a packed crowd of service members.
“We support you and we want everyone to come home safe and soon,” said Key, the band’s lead vocalist and guitarist.
As the rockers took to the stage, the Marines, soldiers, sailors and airmen erupted in applause as the band greeted the crowd.
“We’re really excited to be here and play for you guys,” Key said.
The Yellowcard members dedicated songs to the service members and commented on the great responsibility of young people in the military during the performance.
“I’m 28-years-old,” said front man, Key. “There are guys ten years younger than me working harder than I ever had to in my life.”
As the band played on, the crowd’s size and volume grew. Before the last song, the band invited the crowd to hang out and talk with them after the show.
Lance Cpl. Logan Grant, a Yellowcard fan and armorer with Company B, Battalion Landing Team 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 11th MEU (SOC), waited after the show to meet the band members.
Grant said that he was excited to see a poster announcing the Yellowcard concert the day he arrived in Kuwait.
“The performance was totally unexpected and was a great surprise,” he said. “I definitely give them props for taking the time and coming all the way out here and perform for us.”
The band signed autographs and took photos with Grant and everyone else who waited to see them.
As the grateful service members shuffled through the line, they thanked the band for their performance. But it was members of Yellowcard, who heaped thanks and praise to the troops.
“We’ve always felt that no matter what your political views are, it is important for us to be here and do something special,” said Key. “You’re doing your job and we appreciate that. It doesn’t go unnoticed or unappreciated. We are proud of you and proud to be here.”
For more information on the 11th MEU (SOC) visit their website athttp://www.usmc.mil/11thmeu.