The Historic Ritz Theatre in downtown Toccoa, Georgia, came alive Saturday evening with the sounds of classic country music and the spirit of patriotic pride, as music lovers from across Georgia, South Carolina, and Tennessee gathered for a powerful and emotional concert presented by Georgia Legends Concert and its founder, Wesley Fricks.

The event began at 6:00 p.m. at the Ritz Theatre, located at 166 W Doyle Street, and kicked off with a heartfelt Memorial Day weekend tribute honoring the brave men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces.

The Veterans of Foreign Wars were prominently represented, with Post 4346 Commander Jeff Ventura leading the Pledge of Allegiance, Post Chaplain George Herring offering the opening prayer, and VFW State Commander Joe Couch delivering a stirring keynote address. During the tribute, Commander Couch presented Wesley Fricks with a special edition commemorative coin in appreciation of his unwavering support for veterans.

The segment also featured a moving video of President Ronald Reagan's iconic speech, "A Soldier’s Pledge," and the debut of legendary country artist David Wills’ new patriotic music video, "Honor Bound," a tribute to those who gave their lives in defense of freedom.

Stephens County High School student Rebecca Fan captivated the audience with a stunning rendition of the National Anthem.

The concert opened with a performance by Nashville legend David Wills, a prolific singer-songwriter whose works have been recorded by an array of country music icons including George Strait, Patty Loveless, Charley Pride, Johnny Paycheck, Sawyer Brown, Keith Whitley, John Michael Montgomery, John Schneider, Toby Keith, and Garth Brooks. Wills, known for writing John Schneider’s last No. 1 hit, “You’re The Last Thing I Needed Tonight,” and “Wild Horses,” recorded by Garth Brooks and appearing on three of his multi-platinum albums totaling 26 million in sales, has seen over 38 million copies of his songs sold worldwide. His appearance was a rare treat for longtime country music fans.

Headlining the show was Dallas, Texas-native Howard Decker, better known on stage as Strait Country Tribute. Decker wowed the crowd with his uncanny vocal resemblance to George Strait, the King of Country Music. His tribute performance was marked by authentic stage mannerisms and the signature Texas charm that Strait fans have loved for decades. Decker’s faithful renditions of Strait classics sent a warm and wholesome feeling over the crowd, making it clear why his tribute is celebrated nationwide.

The show was a resounding success, with a full house and audience members remarking on the exceptional quality of both the performances and the Memorial Day salute. The emotional military tribute stood to set the evening’s tone and left a lasting impression on all in attendance.

Following the concert, an after-party was hosted at the local VFW Post, where artists, show staff, VFW officials, and fans gathered to celebrate the evening’s success and continue honoring the nation’s heroes.

Wesley Fricks, President and CEO of Georgia Legends Concert, expressed his gratitude: “It was an incredible evening celebrating country music and honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. We’re proud to have brought that to Toccoa.”