Never Give Up On Country Concert will benefit veterans
Marion County’s Todd Brannon says the event organizer, the Travis Mills Foundation, helped him cope with post-military service issues.
Travis Mills speaks on stage with his daughter, Chloe, during the “Never Give Up On Country” concert at Silver Springs State Park on Feb. 3, 2024. This year’s concert will be held Jan. 31 at Sheltair Aviation. [Photo by Bruce Ackerman]
Todd Brannon was born and raised in West Palm Beach. He moved to Ocala in 2005, after he returned from deployment in Iraq as a U.S. Navy Seabee, where he sustained injuries from an improvised explosive device, or IED.
Brannon said he had shrapnel wounds, “mainly on the right side of my body from my neck down to my legs.”
Todd Brannon shares a moment with his son Todd “TJ” Brannon Jr. [Photo courtesy Todd Brannon]
“I was deployed in 2004. I was part of the convoy security team assigned to transport equipment and personnel to different locations. After being hit by an IED and losing two service members, we were assigned to retrieve a two-star admiral three days later upon his arrival in Ramadi and we came under fire. I was injured and five others paid the ultimate sacrifice,” Brannon said.
“I had four children and a wife waiting for me at home. I spent another five months before I could get the chance to go home. I still to this day suffer from my injuries and severe PTSD. My wife was my caregiver and passed away three years ago from COVID complications as I still struggle with her loss and to raise one son alone,” Brannon added.
The Travis Mills Foundation is a nonprofit dedicated to supporting “recalibrated” veterans like Brannon and their families. Founded by retired U.S. Army SSgt. Travis Mills, one of only five quadruple amputees from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan to survive his injuries, the foundation provides programs that focus on overcoming physical and emotional challenges. Located in the mountains of Maine, the veterans retreat offers a space for rest, recovery and connection. Brannon has spent time at the retreat.
For the past 18 years, Brannon has worked for Marion County, where he is a roads maintenance manager.
“I learned about the Travis Mills Foundation from one of my employees, whose son was wounded in Iraq also. I have been to the retreat in Maine and had a wonderful time and enjoyed all the activities. You could do as much or as little as you like there and rebuild with your family and meet new friends and develop great relationships,” Brannon shared.
For the past three years, the foundation has held an annual Never Give Up On Country concert in Marion County, at locations including the World Equestrian Center and Silver Springs State Park. This year, the concert will take place on Jan. 31 at Sheltair Aviation.
Headlining the concert will be country music artist Chris Janson. Chris McNeil also will perform.
Chris Janson will headline the Jan. 31 “Never Give Up On Country” concert in Ocala. [Photo courtesy Travis Mills Foundation]
“I’ve always been passionate about giving back to the men and women who’ve served our country,” Janson said in a prepared statement. “Partnering with the Travis Mills Foundation, an organization that does so much for our veterans, is an honor. I’m excited to do my part and help support the heroes who’ve sacrificed so much.”
“Chris Janson’s support means the world to us,” Mills shared. “His music brings people together, and this concert will allow us to continue expanding our services to veterans who need them the most. Together, we can ensure our heroes get the help and encouragement they deserve.”
Mills is no stranger to Ocala, having been in attendance at each of the concerts. On May 16 of this year, he was the guest of honor for “a hero’s welcome” event and screening of “Travis: A Soldier’s Story” at the On Top of the World community’s Circle Square Cultural Center. The Marion County Board of County Commissioners declared May 17 as Travis Mills Day in Marion County.
The “Never Give Up On Country” concert, along with its sponsors and the community, has raised more than $1 million in support of the Travis Mills Foundation. The 2025 event marks the third time the show has been presented by Chase, foundation officials stated.
“At JPMorganChase, we are deeply committed to supporting our nation’s heroes and honoring their service,” said Carla Hassan, chief marketing officer, in a news release. “We are proud to partner with the Travis Mills Foundation, which empowers veterans and their families by providing opportunities in their post-service lives. This event unites the community to support a mission that truly matters and makes a meaningful impact.”
Tickets for the concert are $50, with the option to purchase a meal from Mission BBQ, and can be purchased at nevergiveuponcountry.eventbrite.com
“I will be attending the concert. I know many of my friends that I met at the retreat will probably be there also,” Brannon noted.
To learn more about the concert or the Travis Mills Foundation, go to travismillsfoundation.org
Chris McNeil performs during the “Never Give Up On Country” concert on Feb. 3, 2024, in Ocala. He also will perform at the concert coming up on Jan. 31. [Photo by Bruce Ackerman]
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