After I taped The O’Reilly Factor in Washington on Friday night, the real fun began. John Ondrasik and Five For Fighting played at the 9:30 Club. He was kind enough to offer a few guest passes, which Bryan Preston and I gladly used to share a rare, kids-free night out with our spouses. What a memorable time. The venue was intimate. The music was fabulous. Ondrasik was funny, soulful, and inspired. The most emotional moment of the night: When he told the crowd the back story behind “Two Lights,” about a young American soldier headed to Iraq and his Vietnam Vet father, and shared an update–turns out the father recently e-mailed him to let him know that the son is alive and well. (Flashback: Check out The Glenn and Helen Show interview with Ondrasik in case you missed it. Victor Davis Hanson played an integral part in “Two Lights.”)

You know what made the evening so special? Enjoying a performance from an artist who truly appreciates the freedom and opportunity this nation affords us–and who so deeply respects the men and women in uniform (military, police, and firefighters) who put their lives on the line to defend it. Ondrasik introduced several military guests in the audience, including Iraq war vets and troops who have served at Guantanamo Bay (Ondrasik performed there in March.) The crowd gave the troops a rousing ovation.

A few photos:

Pictured above: Jason, a naval officer who served at Guantanamo Bay, and his lovely wife. They were among the many military guests of Ondrasik.

Reminder: Five for Fighting is still raising money for several charities at What Kind of World Do You Want?, including Fisher House:

And the New York Police & Fire Widows’ & Children’s Benefit Fund:

Help support these good causes supported by a great musician!