Frequently, country music artists express their love, appreciation and commitment to the United States, yet for numerous individuals in the industry, their patriotism extends far beyond words. Several country musicians actually served in the military prior to gaining fame in the country music industry.
See bellow a list of several country music artists who have served for our country:
Johnny Cash
Johnny Cash served in the U.S. Air Force during the early 1950s. He enlisted at 18, and went through basic training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas. During his time enlisted, Cash formed his first band, called “The Landsberg Barbarians.” While stationed in Germany,t hey would perform at military functions and local clubs.
Zach Bryan
Rising country singer/songwriter Zach Bryan dedicated eight years of his life to serving in the U.S. Navy before receiving an honorable discharge in 2021, allowing him to follow his passion for music.
Craig Morgan
Craig Morgan’s military career spans a decade of active duty in the U.S. Army and an additional seven years in the Reserves. In 1989, he was stationed in Panama as part of the operation that resulted in the removal of Manuel Noriega from power.
Willie Nelson
After graduating from high school, Willie Nelson briefly served in the U.S. Air Force. Unfortunately, due to back issues, he had to end his military service after being stationed at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas.
Jamey Johnson
Prior to pursuing his dreams in the country music industry in Birmingham, Alabama, and later Nashville, Corporal Jamey Johnson dedicated himself to serving his country as a member of the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves. In his military role, he specialized as a mortar man.
George Jones
