Salute to Veterans program returns to Southport with performance by Letters From Home

SOUTHPORT, NC (WWAY) — The NC 4th of July Festival will once again honor military service and sacrifice with its annual Salute to Veterans program, set for Thursday, July 2, at the Southport Community Building.

The event begins at 5 p.m. and has served as a cornerstone of the festival for more than two decades, offering veterans and community members an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the contributions of U.S. servicemembers.

Admission is free and available on a first-come, first-seated basis. Organizers emphasized that attendees do not need to be veterans — or attend with a veteran — to participate in the event, which includes both dinner and live entertainment.

This year’s program will feature the return of internationally recognized singing duo Letters From Home, marking the fifth time the performers have appeared as special guests at the Southport event.

Known for blending the nostalgic sounds of wartime-era music with humor and contemporary flair, Letters From Home features founder Erinn Dearth and performer Dan Beckmann. Their high-energy performances combine singing, tap dancing and storytelling in a modern take on classic USO-style entertainment.

The duo has performed more than 1,000 shows worldwide, including appearances at the 75th Anniversary of D-Day in Normandy, France, and performances for Battle of the Bulge veterans in Belgium. In 2023, the pair completed a tour of all 50 states and produced a documentary exploring the impact of their performances and the message behind their work.

According to organizers, this year’s performance is designed to honor all veterans, with a special emphasis on those who served during the Vietnam era. The show also celebrates the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States.