UNC concert celebrates patriotism with John Rich and Lee Greenwood

In Chapel Hill, North Carolina, John Rich of Big & Rich organized a concert named Flagstock on Monday to honor fraternity brothers who defended the American flag during anti-Israel protests in May. The concert was designed to promote a sense of patriotism among University of North Carolina students, with Rich's manager stating the goal was to ensure attendees felt it was acceptable to express their patriotic sentiments. The event was a response to the campus unrest and aimed to create a positive atmosphere around patriotism. The planning for Flagstock involved significant organization, including the establishment of a 501 C-4 organization called Pints for Patriots to manage funds and logistics. Rich's involvement was a pivotal moment for the students, as it highlighted their actions as honorable and deserving of recognition. The concert featured surprise performances, including one by Roman Rene Ramirez of Sublime, which added to the excitement of the event. Security measures were extensive, with a budget of approximately $80,000 allocated for safety personnel, including local law enforcement and emergency services. Transportation was also arranged for students, ensuring they could attend the concert without issues. The event's atmosphere evolved from a quiet start to a lively celebration of patriotism as more students joined in throughout the night. While opinions on the event were divided, with some students expressing concerns about its implications, the concert ultimately succeeded in bringing together a large crowd. It fostered a sense of community and support for patriotic values, demonstrating the impact of student activism and the importance of honoring their actions.