Rock festival takes over mid-Michigan in support of military members and their loved ones.

Rock 4 Vets is an affordable two day festival that was held on August 26-27th in Farwell, Michigan. Ticket prices started as low as $20 a day which allowed a wide demographic of concert patrons to attend. In addition, the festival donated a portion of the proceeds to local VFW/AMVETS posts. Evidently, this event was determined to make a difference in the mid-Michigan communities and beyond. Furthermore, the mission statement for the festival stressed the importance of; engaging, uniting, and celebrating military members and their families. On top of raising awareness for veterans and resources available in their communities. 

With an overwhelming amount of community support, the festival was staffed primarily by volunteers willing to dedicate their time to back the cause. Luckily, I was able to speak with a few and get to see how their experience was at Rock 4 Vets 2022.

Nate and Emilee Cooley brought their son Berkley to volunteer and experience his first rock festival. 

Emilee stated, “being asked to volunteer was an awesome experience. We’ve known Chris Martin (founder of R4V) for quite a few years and when he asked us if we’d be interested in doing security for the event we jumped on it. With Nate and I being the type of people who go to concerts and rock festivals, it was amazing to be able to include Berkley in this one. He got to meet members of tons of bands, he got signatures from different band members, and now he’ll have some pretty awesome memories and experiences to share for the rest of his life.”

Brenda Smith-Wilson disclosed that she was motivated to volunteer because she came from a family of military veterans. 

Brenda included, “Chris Martin took two things I am passionate about and that’s veterans and bands. There needs to be a lot more awareness to our veterans and their families. Whether it’s suicide awareness, PTSD, missing action, or just the issues they face coming back home.”

Additionally Brenda stated, “a huge overall thank you to all the bands and patrons that traveled quite a distance to support our cause and most importantly our veterans!”

Bridgett Husted was another volunteer that helped immensely with organizing and promoting the festival. 

Bridgett said, “It’s easy for me to donate my time for such a great cause! I have always had a heart for veterans and military personnel. My father was in the military and I have other family members that have been as well. It’s something I have always been passionate about. Even in my day job, I find ways to help veterans.” 

She went on to say, “Music is my life! When my friend Chris Martin called me up and asked if I would want to help be apart of the event, I didn’t hesitate at all. Music and veterans, two things that I can spend my time and energy on and be grateful to do so. Chris is an amazing leader, it’s truly an honor to be a part of such a great team.”

Over the past couple years, Rock 4 Vets has continued to grow immensely. Founder of the festival, Christopher Martin began the idea as a one day event. Fast forwarding into this year where the festival transitioned into a two day event, including camping. Allowing the festival to open up more availability for additional; bands, vendors, and sponsors. This year Rock 4 Vets amped up their lineup with a mix of over 20 local and touring bands. 

Friday’s Lineup Included:

Saturday’s Lineup Included:

Outside of the musical talent, the festival also provided concert goers with plenty of food options from local food trucks. As well as, activities such as; axe throwing, tattooing, corn hole, and even shopping from local vendors. With two action packed days of fun, Rock 4 Vets is an inclusive environment where anyone is welcomed. Make sure to save the last weekend in August for next years Rock 4 Vets fest! 

ROCK 4 VETS SOCIAL MEDIA