John Michael Montgomery helped celebrate the Army's 229th birthday by singing four of his hits at the Pentagon this month. Wearing camouflage fatigues, the Grammy-award winning singer blended in with the crowd when he arrived at the Pentagon courtyard concert site -- except for his tall, black cowboy hat, that is. Montgomery took time to shake hands, sign autographs and pose for pictures before going on stage. Army Brig. Gen. James Kelley, chief of staff, U.S. Army Reserve Command, introduced the singer, "His realistic lyrics capture the hardships and the determination and 'muddy boots' of our armed forces and their proud families," the general said. Montgomery's current hit, "Letters from Home," he added, is a tribute the nation's service members. Montgomery described having a song about the military during a time of war has been a humbling and wonderful experience. He said he's met some "great American heroes in the military across the seas and families back here." "This song," he said, "just really hit home for me, and as a matter of fact, that's what it's all about."

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