Artist Michael Amante Salutes Veterans With Music

Friday, August 21st, 2009

Friday, 21 August 2009 00:00

Capturing in song the spirit of American patriotism, world-renowned performer Michael Amante of Floral Park has released Amante Salutes America. The album includes Michael’s a cappella versions of The Star-Spangled Banner and God Bless America, which he sings at Citifield for the New York Mets and numerous other sporting events.

Artist Michael Amante

Amante Salutes America is a patriotic album that provides financial support to organizations benefiting United States disabled veterans. Joining with Michael on the album is United We Sing, whose members are Josette D’Ambrosi, Lynelle Johnson and Genna Griffith.

During World War II Amante’s father was a pilot in the United States Army Air Corp. He had flown over 91 combat missions.

“Growing up and hearing his accounts of the war are where my profound respect for our U.S. armed forces began. In all of my concerts I dedicate a song to our U.S. veterans and active service personnel,” Amante said.

In December 2006 Amante decided to dedicate an entire concert to the U.S. armed forces. It began with a concert in tribute to the men and women who served the country during World War II and a portion of the proceeds went to the American Legion.

Then in 2007, Amante met Dick Traum, Mary Bryant and Genna Griffith from the Achilles Freedom Team of Wounded Veterans and was immediately taken in by the organization.

“They asked if I would sing the national anthem to start the Hope and Possibility Race in Central Park,” Amante said. “Before the race started I had the honor of meeting a number of disabled wounded veterans. After meeting Melissa Stockwell, first female amputee back from Iraq, and John Devine, a Long Island Vietnam veteran, I knew that from this day forward my December concerts would be dedicated to our disabled veterans. This is where the idea for Amante Salutes America was born.”

Amante Salutes America, Inc., a New York State not-for-profit corporation, has been formed for the purpose of creating, distributing and selling the CD. All funds and expenses with respect to the creation and promotion of the CD, together with all income from the exploitation of the CD, will flow through Amante Salutes America, Inc.

Amante Salutes America, Inc. is currently exploring a number of non-profit organizations to whom the proceeds will be donated. To date the organizations already chosen are The Achilles Freedom Team of Wounded Veterans and the Disabled American Veterans Chapter 76 ~ National Amputation Foundation, Inc.

“The Achilles Freedom Team of Wounded Veterans is grateful for Michael Amante’s loyal support. His patriotism inspires the injured servicemen and women as they undergo rehabilitation and rebuild their lives,” Mary Bryant, founder and director of the Achilles Freedom Team of Wounded Veterans, said. “Michael’s talent and musicality are matched only by his generosity. We are excited to hear his new CD, Amante Salutes America, and thank him for his commitment to honoring the service and sacrifice of America ‘s wounded veterans.”

Paul Bernacchio, president of the National Amputee Chapter 76, Disabled American Veterans and the National Amputation Foundation, Inc., added. “National Amputee Chapter 76, Disabled American Veterans and the National Amputation Foundation welcome Michael Amante into our family of supporters who understand that the price of freedom is not free and are honored to be selected by Amante Salutes America as one of the supported charities.”