August 14, 1999

Gary reads his open letter to Eddie Vedder at the Crossroads Rally--U.S. Capitol Building, Washington, DC

Gary saw Rock for Life spokesperson Bryan Kemper on an episode of the popular TV show "Politically Incorrect." He contacted Bryan, stating that he wanted to get involved in the pro-life movement. (Take a listen to the song "Rock A Bye Bye" from Extreme's first album and you'll see that this is no passing phase...Gary's held these convictions for a long time.) Gary sent Bryan a letter expressing his beliefs. The letter was posted on the Rock for Life web page and issued with a press release as an Open Letter to Eddie Vedder (Pearl Jam's decidedly pro-choice singer). The letter, which caused some waves not only among Van Halen fans but among rock fans in general, was a bold step for Gary. He's never really been the "spokesperson" type...and that's why I think this move speaks volumes about the strength of his convictions on this particular topic. It took a lot of courage for Gary to add his two cents on this controversial subject, and Rock for Life acknowledged just that. Gary was invited to participate in the Unite for Life Conference, held in Washington, DC on August 14, 1999. (Rock for Life is a division of the American Life League, the conference sponsor.) A youth pro-life group called Crossroads (another ALL affiliate) timed their "coast-to-capital" walk to coincide with the DC conference. Gary joined the group for the last leg of their trek to the U.S. Capitol Building and read his Open Letter at the Crossroads rally in front of the Capitol.

Gary remembers to look up from his "script" during his speech. :-)

Although Gary appeared slightly nervous as he approached the podium to share his letter, he delivered a flawless reading. He was rewarded with a heart-felt round of applause.