10 Country Artists Who Served in the Military

Country music has a long history of patriotic songs that pay tribute to the members and veterans of the United States military, honoring the work and sacrifices made by those who have and do serve, as well as honoring the sacrifices made by soldiers’ families.

Toby Keith was known for songs such as the stirring and vulnerable “American Soldier,” while Billy Ray Cyrus issued the powerful tribute “Some Gave All.” Other country songs that honor soldiers while often offering up honest portrayals at the challenges that come with military life include Tim McGraw’s “If You’re Reading This,” Johnny Cash’s “Ragged Old Flag,” Trace Adkins’ “Arlington,” Randy Travis’s “America Will Always Stand,” and Justin Moore’s “The Ones That Didn’t Make It Back Home.”

Additionally, several country artists have long supported the USO, with Country Music Hall of Fame member Gene Autry being among the first country artists to support the USO. Many other artists through the years have supported the USO, including Barbara Mandrell, Charley Pride, Chely Wright, Kellie Pickler, Adkins, Keith and The War and Treaty.

While many country music artists have released songs honoring the military, some country artists have proudly worn a U.S. military uniform themselves before launching their music careers, from late artists including Autry, George Jones, and Johnny Cash to modern-day country artists including Craig Morgan and The War and Treaty’s Michael Trotter Jr. Often, artists with military service have brought that discipline and patriotism into their own songwriting.

Below, Billboard looks at 10 country artists who have served in the United States miltary.