The Clubhouse in East Hampton is hosting New York native and retired Navy SEAL Marc Hansen and his band Electric Mud this Saturday, June 26, for a concert benefiting the Veteran Benefits Foundation. The foundation’s mission is to build an online platform exclusively for veterans connecting them to each other and the resources they need.
“More than ever we need to appreciate and honor those who allow us to live in freedom. Couldn’t be more excited to be a part of this incredible foundation. It’s always been part of my mission, and my team, to support the men and women who have and continue to dedicate their lives to our country,” said Clubhouse entertainment director Matt Rubenstein.
Each of Electric Mud’s members are Navy veterans. “The band and I are stoked to make our debut in the Hamptons. We know they’ll love our West Coast, classic rock vibe and we are excited to jam out for a good cause. I wish I had VetBen when I got out and now the foundation is making sure it exists for future veterans,” said Marc.
Marc’s brother Matt is on the drums and served on the USS Gridley with guitarist Colton Cori. Phil Armada rounds out the crew on bass and served in the Navy’s Special Boat Teams. The group will reconnect with Nik Wendling, the founder of the Veteran Benefits Foundation after serving with him in 2013.
Wendling came up with the idea when he was serving as president of the Military Veterans of Columbia University during the pandemic. “All of my time was spent as the middle man; fielding inquiries from the veteran students on one side, with all of the organizations that want to help, hire, or treat them on the other,” he said.
VetBen cuts out the middle man and instead gives each party an online community on which to meet and communicate. The foundation has partnered with several other organizations including New York Presbyterian Hospital and the Dale Carnegie organization.
A third of ticket sales from the concert will go towards the Foundation’s mission to provide veterans a one-stop-shop for resources online. Doors open at 7 PM and the show starts at 8. Click here for tickets.