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Gov. Rounds announces country music stars “big and rich” to perform at Vietnam war memorial dedication
PIERRE, S.D. — Big Kenny and John Rich, better known as the country music sensation “Big and Rich,” joined Gov. Mike Rounds today to announce they will be performing their new single, 8th of November, during the Vietnam War Memorial Dedication.
“We are honored to have Big and Rich come to Pierre and perform a truly special song which recognizes the service and sacrifice of our Vietnam Veterans,” said Gov. Rounds on the announcement.
The song was written to honor Niles Harris, a South Dakota Vietnam veteran, who currently lives in Deadwood. Niles was a 19 year old private in the 173rd Airborne Brigade who was shot in a firefight on November 8, 1965; during his first tour of Vietnam. Every year on Nov. 8, Niles drinks a toast to honor those lost that day, as well as all who serve in the US armed forces.
Big & Rich met Niles in Deadwood where they became friends. Niles gave Big Kenny the top hat he still wears. They have become friends, and accompanied Niles to Vietnam where he buried his boots at the battle site.
“We’re gonna be real proud to be part of the dedication,” said Big Kenny. “They (veterans) never got a homecoming they deserved.”
Big and Rich will perform the song during the 2 p.m. (CT) dedication ceremony, Saturday, Sept. 16 in Pierre.
The two-day dedication of the state’s Vietnam War Memorial features a heroes parade and formal dedication ceremony on Saturday, Sept. 16. The event also includes a replica of the national Wall memorial, Huey helicopter rides, muscle car show, USO tents, fallen sons and daughters remembrance field, quilt of tears display, and concerts by The Beach Boys, The Red Willow Band, The Steve Miller Band, and Creedence Clearwater Revisited.
More information is available at www.SDVietnamWarMemorial.com