Jamie Lee Thurston to play at scholarship fundraiser
The Jesse Strong Patriots Day Benefit will return to Irasburg on Saturday, September 27, bringing the community together to honor the memory of two fallen service members and pay tribute to all local first responders.
The event will remember Marine Sgt. Jesse Strong of East Albany, who was killed in action in Iraq in 2005, and U.S. Customs and Border Patrol Agent David “Chris” Maland, who was killed while on duty in Coventry earlier this year. This year marks the 20th anniversary of Sgt. Strong’s death.
First held in 2019, the benefit was established to celebrate Strong’s life and legacy. Strong, the son of Rev. Nathan and former Rep. Vicki Strong, was killed trying to deter militants from disrupting Iraq’s first post-Sadaam democratic election.
This year’s gathering will also honor Maland, as well as area police officers, firefighters, EMTs, and Customs and Border Patrol personnel.
Country music singer Thurston was raised in Waterbury and performed with his father starting at age 15. After moving to Los Angeles, California, he moved again to Nashville, Tennessee in 1999, where he now lives as a full-time touring and recording artist.
Organizers describe the event as a day of remembrance, unity, pride, and community spirit. It will be held from 3 to 9 p.m. at the Creek Hill Barn, 2527 Creek Road in Irasburg.
The six-hour program will feature live music, including Thurston and local favorites Raized On Radio as the opening act. Food vendors, a gun raffle, 50/50 drawing, silent auction, and free onsite camping will also be offered.
Proceeds will benefit the Jesse Strong Memorial Scholarship Fund, which provides grants to college students. Tickets are available for a $20 donation online at http://www.JesseStrong.com or at the door.
For more information, contact organizer Ryan Dufresne at 802-262-5307 or ryanjdufresne@gmail.com.