Drowning Pool talking to Congress, president
While hard rock act Drowning Pool isn't a band we often cover here, the group has taken some of their profile and used to address their concerns about the soldiers involved in ongoing conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq. The band recently performed a USO tour for American troops currently abroad and noted concerns about health care for veterans:
Once home in the United States, we connected with Iraq/Afghanistan war veterans who have returned home. Though back on safe shores, these individuals are
facing a steep uphill battle to reclaim their health after facing the trauma of war.We are seeking an opportunity to testify before Congress on behalf of these troops and veterans who need mental,
emotional and medical support services," said Benton. That goal will be accomplished with the return of Congress
from over the weekend as the calendars and agendas in Washington are being marked to welcome Drowning Pool during
the course of the next 6 months.
To that end, the band wrote a letter addressing the issues of healthcare and concerns for the troops on their return home, which was placed in the
President's personal reading file. The band is now set to participate in a Congressional hearing where
Drowning Pool will testify to both parties of the U.S. Congress, addressing the facts of
treatment of the American soldiers upon their return home from the Middle East.
The White House is not the only government outlet that has given attention to the letter written by the band.
Several of the 2008 Presidential candidates have accepted the letter and issue with open arms from Drowning Pool.