MILWAUKEE — If you’re looking for a meaningful way to connect with local veterans and enjoy a summer evening on the lakefront, head to the War Memorial Center this Thursday, August 21 for the season finale of Music in the Garden, a free, family-friendly event designed to bring together veterans, their families, and the broader Milwaukee community.
In an interview on Wisconsin’s Afternoon News, Dona Drew, a Marine veteran and suicide prevention coordinator at the VA, spoke about what makes the event personal for her.
“Veteran is defined as anybody who has served,” Drew said. “This event gives us a chance to honor that service, and also to make sure our veterans know they’re not alone. There are resources out there and people who care.”
Hosted by the Southeastern Wisconsin Veteran Suicide Prevention Task Force, the event runs from 6 to 8 p.m. in the War Memorial’s pop-up beer garden, located just northeast of the main building at 750 N. Lincoln Memorial Drive.
This installment will feature live music by Inner Ally, a band known for its “good time rock and roll” spanning from the 1950s through the 1990s, along with original songs showcasing rich vocals and strong guitar work. Up to 15 classic cars will also be on display for auto enthusiasts, and craft beer and German fare from Kegel’s Inn will be available for purchase.
But the music and atmosphere are only part of the story.
The heart of Music in the Garden lies in its mission: offering veterans a space to connect with one another, build community, and access vital support services, all in a relaxed and welcoming setting. The event also highlights local and national outreach resources available to veterans and their families, including those provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and numerous private nonprofit organizations.
Dona Drew, who co-chairs the Task Force and leads the Veteran-Centric Music Series, emphasized the importance of these community gatherings in breaking the stigma around mental health and increasing access to life-saving resources.
“It’s a great place for Veterans to learn about the many services available to them while also having a good time,” said Drew.
Those interested in showing a classic car at the event can register online through the War Memorial Center’s Music in the Garden – Car Show visit: warmemorialcenter.org. All community members are welcome to attend, and veterans are especially encouraged to come, share stories, and discover the support networks available to them.
