Saturday, November 23, 2019

Jesse James Dupree and Jackyl!

As some of you already know, the National VFW Foundation recently partnered with JJD to assist with our Unmet Needs program.  JJD is a social influencer of the highest degree and has already substantially assisted VFW in our programs, most notably at the Full Throttle Saloon in Sturgis, South Dakota.

I got in from Cozumel around midnight, picked up Mama Cass early Friday morning and we headed north for the four hour drive to Watseka to see JJD and his band, Jackyl, play.  On the way, JJD called and said if I got in early Mama and I should drop by the bus and hang out, so of course we did!  I met State Senior Vice Laurie and Junior Vice Bobby in the parking lot and invited them to come along.  We had a great time hanging with Jesse and the band and the topics of discussion ranged from music to the environment to politics to children and much, much more.  Jesse is well rounded guy and it was a pleasure to share his time....and his bourbon!  If you've never tried the Original Jesse James American Outlaw Bourbon Whiskey, I suggest you give it a try!

The concert was really fun in a small, premium venue.  State Commander Brad, Mama, and I went on stage to present an Illinois VFW Check for Unmet Needs in the amount of $1800.  The crowd was very appreciative of veterans and they showed it in their enthusiasm.  The show continued and later ended with Jesse's signature chainsaw playing.  He even dedicated the final song to Mama....I think he really likes her!


Jesse and Mama on the band bus


Playing the VFW logo Chainsaw!


When the Boss tells you to celebrate The Big Check....


Mama and her VIP [Very Important Pup] backstage pass.  The Watseka Theater owner bent over backward to make sure she was comfortable the entire time.  She even got a row of seats to herself!