The hardest working band in show businesses has come to Boise. KISS has kicked of their freedom to rock tour, right here in the City of Trees. The band is not just playing rock and roll, but helping veterans.
It is a day Detroit-born Petty Officer First Class Christa Mode will remember for the rest of her life. A veteran of Iraq and Afghanistan, she's catching KISS in concert.
"Oh my god. It's surreal. It is so surreal. I can't believe I'm here," said Mode.
She's not just here to rock out; she is also working. During her service, Christa suffered injuries -- both physical and mental.
"Bad back, bad neck, bad arms. I've had a few bad days, but we got through it," Mode explained.
She came here as part of Hiring Our Heroes, a nationwide initiative to help veterans and their loved ones find work. That is how she was selected to be the bands roadie for a day. Along with her combat buddy Steve, Mode spent much of the day stuffing VIP bags and taking care of any last-minute details.
"At least we're not getting shot at," Mode said while she worked.
"This is us giving back. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce and KISS are teaming up to hire out vets at every single city we play in," said Gene Simmons, the band's bassist.
But it was not just all work and no play, Mode got a behind-the-scenes tour, met the band, and even got on stage with them. While she may be back from overseas, Mode is still fighting a battle to get over PTSD, and to join the work force. Today she believes she won the battle.
"I'm going to face it head-on, and I'm going to do it," said Mode.
KISS also presented a check to Hiring our Heroes for $150,000.
