Gibson, an American guitar brand, has partnered with Guitars For Vets to bring the power of music to returning US military veterans. Gibson opened the doors of its Custom Shop in Nashville to debut a donation of 48 guitars and 19,000 string sets as well as pledge their continued support to Guitars For Vets. Guitars For Vets provides veterans with guitars and a forum to learn how to play which is in line with the new Gibson Gives mission. Gibson artist Sully Erna of rock group Godsmack presented the gift to US Veterans Henry Thomas, Pete Nugris, Brandon Branham and Patrick Nettesheim Co-Founder of the non-profit.
Thousands of US veterans are afflicted with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). In fact, more soldiers have committed suicide since the Vietnam War than have died in actual battle. Many are now finding hope in an unlikely place—behind the wood and strings of an acoustic guitar. The healing power of music helps soldiers cope and Guitars For Vets (501(c)3) provides veterans with guitars and a forum to learn how to play to relieve stress. With over 80,000 guitar lessons and 3,000 guitars gifted so far, Guitars for Vets has refined a guitar instruction program aimed at providing Veterans struggling with physical injuries, PTSD and more a unique supportive program. Guitars For Vets pursues its mission to share the healing power of music by providing free guitar instruction, a new acoustic guitar and a guitar accessory kit in a structured program run by volunteers, primarily through the Department of Veterans Affairs facilities and community-based medical centers. The organization's mission is to help those who served our country rediscover their joy through the power of music.
Gibson Gives is the front end of the Gibson Foundation whose overall mission is to make music matter one guitar at a time. For more information on the Gibson Foundation, visit gibsonfoundation.org.
Music credit: Godsmack “Unforgettable.”
