Free concert comes to McConnell

  • Published
  • By Airman Justin Shelton
  • 22nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. --  The band that used to be known as the Prairie Rose Wranglers is going to be performing a free lunchtime concert at the Robert J. Dole Community Center at noon, June 18.

The Diamond W. Wranglers used to play at the Old Cowtown Museum and now want to bring their talent to the base for all of Team McConnell to enjoy.

"The Diamond W. Wranglers do cowboy music just right," said Fe Vorderlandwehr, 22nd Services Squadron. "It is evident that they love what they do and they are extremely good at it. Their support of our troops is unwavering and when I asked if they could perform they jumped at the chance."

The band is comprised of four members: Jim Farrell, guitarist; Stu Stuart, lead singer; Orin Friesen, bass guitar player; and Steve Crawford, drummer/percussionist.

Mr. Farrell owns his own recording studio, and records all of the albums for his band. In 2005 he was awarded the Wrangler Award for Western Music Producer of the Year.

Mr. Stuart served a term in the Navy, and has been with the Wranglers for the nine years that they have been performing.

Mr. Friesen produced the International Blue Grass Music Association Awards show for its first 10 years in business and is a member of the Old Time Country Music Hall of Fame.

Mr. Crawford became an official member of the band in 2003 and is an architect when not performing with the band.

The Diamond W. Wranglers mostly perform country western music and cowboy trail songs. They also play self-created material, sometimes of a humorous nature.

"They're just awesome, they sing well and are very entertaining," said Mary Eary, 22nd Mission Support Group.

Don't miss this chance to enjoy some free entertainment while eating lunch. For more information contact Services Squadron at 759-4230.