Before Billy Ray Cyrus’ set at the 2009 Freedom Concert, he met with Sherman Gillums, Jr., who is a wheelchair-bound former United States Marine.
“God bless you, sir,” Cyrus said to Gillums, shaking his hand.
The video then follows Gillums going maneuvering backstage, and ultimately joining Cyrus on stage for his military tribute song, “Some Gave All.”
“To the men and women out there and all the families, thank you for your service to this great country,” Cyrus tells the camera. “God Bless America. ‘Some Gave All’ is for you tonight.”
Cyrus invited Gillums and a fellow wheelchair-bound Marine to join him, and the crowd paid their respects. He began playing a solemn version of “Some Gave All” and the crowd fell silent.
We got goosebumps on our arms and tears in our eyes when Cyrus sang the lyrics,
“All gave some, some gave all
Some stood through for the red, white and blue
And some had to fall
And if you ever think of me, think of all your liberties
And recall, some gave all.”
“Some Gave All” is an incredible song that helps us remember the importance of our military and to thank every single soldier of the past, present, and future, and especially those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
The song was included on Cyrus‘ 1992 debut album of the same name. Although he released “Some Gave All” almost 25 years ago, he still sings it at almost all of his live shows to this day.
“Some Gave All” tells the story of a soldier’s ultimate sacrifice, emphasizing the themes of honor, duty, and patriotism. Although it wasn’t released as a single, “Some Gave All” resonated deeply with listeners, becoming an anthem of remembrance for many. The song’s powerful message and Cyrus’s sincere delivery ensure its lasting impact as a tribute to those who serve.
Watch the emotional performance below.