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The All-American Rejects and The Lost Stars Rock Navy Bases in New Orleans, Meridian and Gulfport During Operation MWR

May 29, 2024 | Story by Naomi Wilkins | Commander, Navy Installations Command

WASHINGTON – Not even a delayed start to The All-American Rejects concert at Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base (NAS JRB) New Orleans could stop concertgoers from seeing one of the most recognized rock bands in the world. As the first stop on their Operation MWR tour, the band was joined by the Nashville-based band, The Lost Stars. They continued their performances at Naval Construction Battalion Center (NCBC) Gulfport and Naval Air Station (NAS) Meridian.  

The concert was highly anticipated by attendees and also highlighted the quality of life programming provided by Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR), and supported by Navy leadership. “In my view, events like Operation MWR enhance the resilience of military service members and families by showing them that leaders care. These events help to build camaraderie, allow service members and their families to come together, socialize and have a good time,” explained Capt. Lena Kaman, Commanding Officer at NAS JRB New Orleans. 

Katherine Lewis, NAS JRB MWR New Orleans Special Events Coordinator, explained that The All-American Rejects were selected to perform at Operation MWR because “They have a lot of chart-topping hits and we knew they would really appeal to the demographic of our installation.”

Despite the looming threat of rain and storms, and a one-hour delay, it wasn’t long before the gates opened and eager concert attendees geared up for the show. The Lost Stars, a pop group with hits like “Blacklist” and “Here’s to Being Single,” opened the evening with a fun and vibrant show, making a true connection with the crowd. “We want you to know you are valued, you are important, and you make an impact in your community, especially being a part of the Armed Services. We appreciate everything you do,” announced Damian Malnar, lead vocalist of the group. 

Shortly after, The All-American Rejects stormed the stage for a 90-minute performance that had the crowd rocking, including one of their most recognized songs, “Dirty Little Secret”. The group was also eager to show their support for service members and their families. “We support and love you guys so much for what you do for us, and the sacrifices you and your families make,” expressed lead singer Tyson Ritter between songs. 

Both groups went on to perform at NCBC Gulfport and NAS Meridian, and the shows were just as electric. Shelby Waldron, NCBC Gulfport MWR Marketing Director, said they saw about 1,000 attendees at their event. “We’ve gotten a lot of positive feedback from patrons, both at the event and post-event. People are still commenting on posts and sending private messages thanking us for a great show, and at the end of the day, that’s why we do what we do – for the service members and their families.” 

The feedback received by NAS Meridian MWR Director Evie Adams was just as uplifting, with Adams recapping the concert by saying, “It was awesome to see the families that came out to the event. I have heard many parents say that this was their child’s first concert and that they loved it. I think it was pretty special to get to be a part of these families’ core memories.”

Navy MWR's Operation MWR will host 65+ free events at Navy installations worldwide from May to June 2024. These events aim to boost morale and resilience among service members and their families through live entertainment, recreational activities, food, games, and more. Open to active duty members, reservists, veterans, retirees, DoD civilians, and eligible MWR patrons. For more information about Operation MWR and to find your local event, please visit NavyMWR.org/OperationMWR.

Navy MWR’s mission is to deliver high-quality, customer-focused programs and services that contribute to resiliency, retention, readiness and quality of life. Navy MWR Entertainment tours make a positive impact on the morale of our troops. The program provides quality, live entertainment for Sailors stationed overseas and on deployed ships at sea. For more information about the program, visit NavyMWR.org/Entertainment.

No Navy endorsement implied.

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