MADE POSSIBLE BY
Guitars For Vets
Why We Support
Guitars for Vets
"800,000 U.S. VETERANS STRUGGLE WITH PHYSICAL INJURIES, PTSD AND OTHER EMOTIONAL DISTRESS.
Music helps decrease anxiety, increase self-esteem, and reduce episodes of panic attacks, nightmares and flashbacks. A research study of Guitars 4 Vets students showed a 21% improvement in PTSD symptoms and a 27% decrease in related depression symptoms. The study attributed learning and playing guitar as the primary catalysts for these improvements—and we want to ensure as many vets as possible have that opportunity."
-Guitars for Vets
Our Inaugural 21 Guitar Salute
In 2023 Gathering on the Green hosted its inaugural 21 Guitar Salute. Veterans, their family members and teachers lead the packed crowd in a sing-along of "Knockin' on Heaven's Door."
To add to the excitement - Mickey Thomas of Starship autographed a Taylor acoustic guitar that was raffled off to one lucky winner in the crowd!
Video courtesy of Tony Lorino, Mequon Resident and Host/Owner of Throwback Nation Radio
Guitars for Vets was founded in Wisconsin by Patrick Nettesheim, a musician and Vietnam-era Marine, Dan Van Buskirk.
Guitar lessons and music helped Dan cope with PTSD.
Dan and Patrick shared what they learned with Veterans at
The Clement J. Zablocki VA Medical Center and Guitars for Vets was born.
The organization started in 2007 in Milwaukee and now there are chapters in over 30 states. Ambassadors for the program include players from
Anthrax, Drivin' & Cryin', Halestorm, Talan Latz, Willy Porter,
Trapper Schoepp, Tesla, The WhiskeyBelles and more.
