KINGSTON, Jamaica – Grammy-award winning Jamaican artist Shaggy was among those recognized for their service to the US Marines at a special Veterans Day Dinner in Boston.
The fundraiser event, presented by Hanscom Federal Credit Union and hosted by Home Base, a Red Sox Foundation and Massachusetts General Hospital Program, took place at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum on Thursday, November 7.
The event was held to honor the service of military families and recognize the nonprofit’s biggest supporters.
In a press statement, Shaggy said: “My military experience helped shape me into the person that I am today. I am honored to be associated with such an important event and cause and look forward to continuing a friendship with Home Base for years to come.”
It is understood that proceeds from the event will directly support the vital mental health and wellness programs available at Home Base to treat the invisible wounds for Veterans, Service Members and their Families, which include post-traumatic stress PTS, traumatic brain injury TBI, anxiety, depression, co-occurring substance use disorder, and family relationship challenges.
The event featured a live performance by songwriter and recording artist James House and a live discussion with Shaggy about his illustrious music career, his military experience and support of Veteran causes.
Shaggy whose real name is Orville Burrell, enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1988 at 20 years old. He served with a Field Artillery Battery in the 10th Marine Regiment during the Persian Gulf War.
Shaggy has said that it was during his time in the military that he perfected his signature singing voice that took him to stardom in the 1990s.
