Giving them 'Everything they want' in Kuwait

CAMP ARIFJAN, Kuwait - On a warm Tuesday evening in the middle of the Arabian Desert a little piece of American life was brought to some military members serving overseas.

American rock band Vertical Horizon, known for their chart-topping hits "Everything You Want" and "You're a God," described the experience as one that would not soon be forgotten. "We are glad to be here, when we found out we had the opportunity to come to Kuwait and perform for the troops we were ecstatic, this will not be an experience we will ever forget," said lead vocalist and founder, Matt Scannell, during the band's hour-long performance.

The band's performance was part of the Armed Forces Entertainment concert series touring the Southwest Asia area, according to their website.

"I think it's a great thing that AFE does by bringing bands like 'Vertical Horizon' out here to entertain us and take our minds off our daily routines for a couple of hours," said Sgt. Dennis Coleman, concert audience member.

Spc. Scott Ivy, Vertical Horizon fan, agreed, "I really enjoyed the concert, it got me away from work and was a nice break from our everyday life here."

The band was just as appreciative of having the opportunity to come and perform for "real American heroes" as they gave the audience a round of applause after completing their set.

"You guys are the reason our country is so great and why we can feel safe when we are back home in the states, thank you," stated Scannell during one of the breaks in between songs.

According to the AFE website, they host more than 1,200 shows around the world each year, reaching more than 500, 000 personnel at 270 military installations, and proudly presenting troops with the finest American entertainment and giving them a well-deserved break.

"The concert was great, there was really good energy in the crowd and at the same time it was personal with Matt [Scannell] talking to us in between songs sharing personal stories about his life, it was really a neat experience," said Spc. Stephen Kirt, audience member and fan.

The concert came to a powerful ending as the band finished off the evening with their worldwide hit song "Everything You Want", as the crowd sang the chorus in unison. The band members told their captive audience that it was a pleasure and an honor to perform for them.