10/28/2009

KISS HONORS WOUNDED WARRIORS

Rock band Kiss visits Augusta to honor wounded warriors

By Ashley Campbell

Some wounded warriors got a rockin' surprise this afternoon.

Band members from the group Kiss stopped by the Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center.

NBC Augusta 26 News was there as fans wanted to "shout it out loud" for their favorite band.

"He's my hero right here, these are the guys, these are the guys, these are the heroes right here," said lead singer of Kiss, Paul Stanley, as he put his arm around a wounded warrior.By Ashley Campbell

Some wounded warriors got a rockin' surprise this afternoon.

Band members from the group Kiss stopped by the Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center.

NBC Augusta 26 News was there as fans wanted to "shout it out loud" for their favorite band.

"He's my hero right here, these are the guys, these are the guys, these are the heroes right here," said lead singer of Kiss, Paul Stanley, as he put his arm around a wounded warrior.

Known for their face paint, elaborate live performances with smoking guitars and pyrotechnics, the band Kiss has been a staple in the world of rock since the 1970s.

Back on tour, band members put down their guitars and drum sticks long enough to visit wounded warriors at the Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center in Augusta.

"The greatest American heroes are sometimes the most neglected and here in Augusta you've got the most comprehensive rehab center," said Stanley.

Many of the soldiers were able to go to Kiss's concert in Atlanta.

But they were even more excited to see the band up close and personal, especially one soldier who has a unique bond with the band - Kinga Kiss.

"I can't imagine they took the time out of their day just to come and visit with us."

"I had my ticket signed. I'm so excited," said Kiss.

Band members Paul Stanley, Tommy Thayer and Eric Singer posed for pictures and signed autographs.

Ironically, their fans have always been known as the "Kiss Army."
Wednesday it was all about taking the time to honor the U.S. Army and other members of the military who protect our country.

"The people not only talk the talk but they walk the walk, they've gone the mile and for us to take just a little bit of time to come over here and acknowledge them is minuscule compared to what these people do for us," said Stanley.

"We're so tied up with our appointments and medical treatment and it's just a day to forget about all our pain," said Kiss.
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