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Rodney Atkins and Rose Falcon's Acoustic Set Brings Rota Community Together

Operation MWR - Rota.jpg

May 16, 2024 | Story by Megan Trexler | Commander, Navy Installations Command

WASHINGTON --- Over 400 attendees gathered at Naval Station Rota, Spain, for an evening of unforgettable music and community spirit as part of the Navy’s Operation MWR initiative, presented by GOVX. The event featured a special acoustic performance by country music star Rodney Atkins and his wife, singer-songwriter Rose Falcon.

Despite a series of unexpected travel challenges, including their band being stranded in Philadelphia, Pa. with all their instruments and gear, Atkins and Falcon arrived in Rota with no luggage. The resilient Rota team stepped up and found guitars for their show. This spirit of teamwork and adaptability set the tone for an inspiring night.

Atkins and Falcon delivered a captivating 75-minute acoustic set that resonated deeply with the audience. The highlight of the evening was when they invited a young Sailor on stage to perform a song alongside Atkins. This spontaneous moment encapsulated the evening’s theme of community and connection.

Captain Teague Suarez, Commanding Officer of NS Rota, highlighted the broader impact of Operation MWR events: "These types of events show MWR’s support of our families and it reinforces the Navy’s commitment to our Sailors and their families. By providing these 'taste of home' events, we help to create the fabric of their lives in a positive way."

The crowd, sporting cowboy boots and hats, enthusiastically sang along to every song. The lively atmosphere was enhanced by country-themed decorations, including hay bales and air toys for kids. Attendees enjoyed a country BBQ menu and treats from an ice cream truck, adding to the festive mood.

Atkins shared his thoughts on performing at the event: "It is the least we can do for our service members. We are energized by performing in front of people, especially the military. Today is all about them and giving them a fun and relaxing time. It’s not at all about us."

"Community events like this are much better than going out in town. They offer a taste of home in a safe environment and create a sense of community. We should have more frequent events like concerts and family activities. It really feels like home to us," said an active-duty Sailor at Rota.

Doug Hasselbring, Naval Station Rota MWR Community Recreation Director, expressed his excitement about the event: "Nothing lifts the spirits like live music and the morale of our community is low right now due to the extreme tempo of deployments. We need these more than ever. The concert provided a taste of home."

Navy MWR's Operation MWR, presented by GOVX, will host 65+ free events at Navy installations worldwide from May to June 2024. These events aim to boost morale and resilience among service members and their families through live entertainment, recreational activities, food, games and more. Open to active duty members, reservists, veterans, retirees, DoD civilians and eligible MWR patrons. For more information about Operation MWR and to find your local event, please visit NavyMWR.org/OperationMWR.

Navy MWR’s mission is to deliver high-quality, customer-focused programs and services that contribute to resiliency, retention, readiness and quality of life. Navy Entertainment tours make a positive impact on the morale of our troops. The program provides quality, live entertainment for Sailors stationed overseas and on deployed ships at sea. For more information about the program, visit NavyMWR.org/Entertainment.

No Navy endorsement implied.
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