Stephen Cochran Supports and Inspires Fellow Veterans

 Country’s rising star, Stephen Cochran, has had success with his self-titled debut album and coast-to-coast tour. But Cochran took time out to travel to Palo Alto, Calif., to spend Thanksgiving entertaining veterans at the VA Hospital and signing autographs, all while taking the time to personally thank each soldier for their service.Cochran has a connection with the veterans because he is a Marine vet, having served in both Iraq and Afganistan. In combat, he was severely wounded. He struggled through back injuries and paralysis, but fought his way back to the stage and into the hearts of fans. Still, Cochran is dedicated to helping his fellow veterans.Cochran told the Palo Alto patients, "Since I can't be with my family on Thanksgiving, there's no place I'd rather be than right here with my brothers and sisters, and that's all of you."Cochran works with the Independence Fund, which is an organization that provides tools and therapies to returning vets. Having played benefit shows to help purchase 15 iBOT wheelchairs at cost $30,000 each, Cochran has gone above and beyond for the vets. The iBOT is manufactured by Johnson & Johnson and employees the technology of the Segway Personal Transporter. With the IBOT, wheelchair-bound patients are given amazing mobility, in turn, giving them more productive lives.Joshua Lindsay, an Operation Iraqi Freedom Vet and first recipient of the iBOT from Cochran’s Independence fund, gave the Palo Alto veterans a special demonstration of the iBOT. Lindsay said, “I'm at eye-level with people, and I don't have to look up at you. It's a respect thing. I feel more, and I'm happier. It gives you your pride back."Word of Cochran’s Palo Alto visit reached the USO, where the servicemen’s organization invited Cochran to Walter Reed Hospital to perform and inspire their wounded vets on Dec. 19. Of course, Cochran has agreed and is rearranging his schedule to make the trip.Cochran will be returning to Iraq and Afganistan on Dec. 28 to perform his music and deliver his message to the American Heroes. Meanwhile, his newest single, “Thinkin’ I’m Drinkin’,” is gaining momentum.For news and up-to-the-minute touring information, visit http://www.stephencochran.com/