Anthony Kearns Headlines Army Week Gala in New York Tonight

Renowned tenor Anthony Kearns will be the featured guest performer at the 239th United States Army Birthday Gala at the historic Union League Club tonight, Thursday, June 12, 2014.

Christopher Page, CEO of the Army Week Association and a U.S. Army veteran, said, "Army Week New York is part of a week-long series of events to celebrate and give thanks to those who have volunteered to support and defend our Constitution, as well as their families. We're pleased to have legendary performer Anthony Kearns join us for an evening of gratitude."

Mr. Kearns said: "I'm honored to return to New York City for the U.S. Army's grand celebration at the historic Union League of New York City." Last month, Kearns sang 'The Lord's Prayer' in dedication to American military members at the 2014 National Memorial Day Concert in Washington, D.C. The concert was broadcast on PBS and also featured the nation's military leaders including the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

The 239th United States Army Birthday in New York City will be emceed by Greg Kelly, co-host of Good Day New York (Fox 5 NY) and a former co-host of Fox and Friends. The evening's Special Military Guest of Honor is General Raymond Odierno, U.S. Army Chief of Staff, who oversees the country's largest military service of approximately 530,000.

Colonel Eluyn Ginés, U.S. Army Garrison, Fort Hamilton, will receive the "Exemplary Service to the MILVET Community Award" and New York City Fire Commissioner Salvatore Cassano will receive the "Soldier for Life Award."

Colonel Ginés has received numerous awards for service, including the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal (1OLC), Meritorious Service Medal (4 OLC), Joint Service Commendation Medal, among others. Cassano was appointed to his current post by Mayor Michael Bloomberg. As a firefighter, he was instrumental in rebuilding the department after the September 11 attacks, after which he was named Chief of Operations. In recognition of his service to the city of New York, he received the Ellis Island Medal of Honor.

Mr. Kearns said that he is looking forward to performing before such distinguished guests. A member of popular singing sensation, The Irish Tenors, Kearns has a deep history and appreciation for not only members of the U.S. Military but also the people of New York. Among other events, he sang at a New York City Memorial Mass for the fallen of 9/11, including police officers and fire fighters.

Mr. Kearns' appearance at the 239th U.S. Army Birthday is made possible with the support of The Coalition to Salute America's Heroes, an organization that provides direct financial assistance to America's wounded heroes.

David Walker, President and CEO of the Coalition, said, "We're excited to once again partner with internationally-acclaimed Irish Tenor Anthony Kearns. Tonight's event to honor America's largest military service - the U.S. Army - on its 239th birthday is particularly special as our own Sgt. Mary Herrera introduces him to kick off Army Week. His voice and passion for our military inspires us all as it also honors our men and women in uniform. Our association with Anthony, this year's event and our Armed Forces is an honor."

Kearns first took the American television audience by storm in 1999 as the youngest member of The Irish Tenors, with whom he has five PBS Specials and 10 CDs. Their breakout PBS Special, "Live from Ellis Island" - which paid tribute to immigrants - helped the group become one of PBS' highest grossing acts of all time.

Mr. Kearns also has a successful solo career which includes concerts, high-profile celebrity engagements, major television appearances, operas, and collaborations with some of renowned orchestras. He has had the honor to perform for three U.S. Presidents. In fall 2013, Kearns released his first solo album, "With a Song in My Heart." www.anthonykearnstenor.com.

In 2013, Kearns performed as the guest of General Martin Dempsey, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, in a tribute to Medal of Honor recipients, with the U.S. Army Chorus. He also opened the televised 2013 National Memorial Day Parade in Washington, D.C. and performed at the World War II Memorial for Labor Day in a tribute to America's "Greatest Generation" and U.S. forces deployed to defend America after the 9-11 terrorist attacks. In 2012, Kearns was a guest performer in the award-winning Veteran's Day PBS Special, "America's Veterans: A Musical Tribute," with the U.S. Air Force Band.

The 239th United States Army Birthday Gala takes place during Army Week in New York City, June 8 through June 14, and honors U.S. Soldiers, veterans and their families. Charitable, educational, and social events take place which culminate with a free public "Army Day" in Bryant Park. Events are produced by Army Week Association. For more, visit www.armyweek.org.

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