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History Made on the Flight Line: Operation MWR Lands at NAS Jacksonville

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October 22, 2025 | Story by Megan Trexler | Commander, Navy Installations Command

Washington --- The flight line at Naval Air Station (NAS) Jacksonville was transformed into a massive concert venue on October 18, 2025, around 30,000 attendees came together for an unforgettable Operation MWR event. Hosted by Navy Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) Entertainment in partnership with NAS Jacksonville’s MWR, the concert marked the first time Jacksonville has hosted an Operation MWR event.

With clear skies and perfect Florida fall weather, Sailors, families, veterans and other MWR patrons filled the flight line for an evening of music, camaraderie and celebration. Surrounding installations, including Naval Station (NS) Mayport and Naval Submarine Base (NSB) Kings Bay, partnered with their local MWR Liberty programs to coordinate bus trips for junior Sailors to attend the concert.

The evening opened with Hueston, whose powerful voice and heartfelt lyrics immediately connected with the crowd. Performing songs like “Love Letters,” “Just For The Night,” and “Joy Ride,” Hueston set the tone for a night of high energy and shared pride.

Next, special guest Shaboozey brought his signature blend of country and hip-hop to the Jacksonville stage, a style that has made him one of the most talked-about emerging artists in music today. Following his breakout success with chart-topping hits and major award show appearances, Shaboozey showcased his versatility and connection with fans through a lively set featuring “Last Of My Kind,” “Fire and Gasoline,” and his No. 1 hit “A Bar Song (Tipsy).”

During his performance of “Amen,” Shaboozey invited Lawson L., the 18-year-old son of a military veteran, to join him on stage and play guitar. It was a moment neither would forget. According to Shaboozey, it was the first time he had ever invited a fan to perform alongside him, and he later said he couldn’t have ended the Great American Road Show in a better way, adding that Lawson “did a great job.” After the show, Lawson shared, “That was the best time I’ve ever had. Thank you to Shaboozey, the crew, MWR, and everyone else who helped put this together.”

“This experience has been awesome. It’s something I’ve always wanted to do…to give back and contribute to the morale and welfare of our armed forces,” Shaboozey said before taking the stage. “There’s already such good energy here. I just hope I can inspire them the same way they inspire me. That’s always been my goal with music.”

The anticipation reached its peak as Jelly Roll took the stage for a powerful, high-energy performance. The multi-platinum artist and Grammy nominee, known for his raw storytelling and heartfelt lyrics, performed several songs, including “Heart of Stone,” “Get By,” and “Need A Favor.”

“I truly believe the bravest people in the world are here tonight,” Jelly Roll said when asked about the impact of Operation MWR and performing for the military community. “Because of the sacrifices they make, they don’t always get to experience the entertainment they deserve. I think it’s really special that we get to bring it right to the Sailors and their families.”

Throughout the night, Jelly Roll’s connection with the audience was unmistakable. He brought a young fan up on stage to introduce his song “Hard Fought Hallelujah,” a moving moment that drew cheers from the crowd and underscored his gratitude for the military community. That spirit of connection continued when he noticed Linda Collins, the spouse of an Army retiree, holding a sign in the front row celebrating 1,708 days of sobriety. Before performing “Winning Streak,” Jelly Roll read her message to the crow and promised to give her a voice to help others, a gesture that deeply moved the crowd.

“When he sang ‘Winning Streak,’ it felt like he was singing my life story. At 52 years old, his music gave me the courage to start over...to return to school and rebuild my purpose. I’m now a full-time (college) student, working toward becoming a licensed mental health and substance abuse therapist. I also work full-time as a peer specialist in my hometown, walking alongside others in their recovery journeys,” said Collins.

As the music faded and the crowd began to disperse, one thing was clear, the night had left a lasting impression on everyone who attended. The Jacksonville event was part of the Operation MWR concert series, designed to strengthen morale and bring Navy communities together through world-class entertainment. The series began two days earlier at Naval Station Norfolk, uniting service members and families through the universal language of music.

“Bringing Operation MWR to Jacksonville for the first time has been an incredible experience for our entire MWR team,” said Kelley Harkins, NAS Jacksonville’s MWR Director. “It’s not every day we get to host a concert on this scale, and seeing Sailors and their families come together to enjoy a night like this made all the planning and preparation worth it. It was an honor to partner with Navy Entertainment and our other partners to give our community an experience they’ll never forget.”

As part of Navy MWR’s ongoing efforts to enhance Quality of Service, these concerts are designed to inspire resilience, readiness and camaraderie across the Navy community. This year’s Operation MWR series also serves as a centerpiece of the Navy and Nation’s 250th birthday celebration, a two-year tribute honoring 250 years of defending freedom and ensuring peace through strength.

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.

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This is an Official U.S. Navy Website Commander, Navy Installations Command.

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