LOS ANGELES, CA, February 17, 2009 – Singer/songwriter Astara Mink and director/cinematographer Scott McCullough have collaborated on the creation and release of "Mr. Trooper," a music video designed to raise money for programs supporting U.S. soldiers returning from Iraq and Afghanistan, and their families.
"I was disappointed with the lack of attention and support our troops faced upon returning home and knew I had to do something," said Mink, who came up with the idea to write the song, "Mr. Trooper," as a show of gratitude and to honor U.S. troops fighting overseas.
The classy, 1940′s-style song became a hit, encouraging Mink to create a video based on the song, with the hope it would raise awareness and generate donations to help soldiers and their families.
Word spread. Friends came on board. Director Scott McCullough, who has worked with high profile artists such as Prince, the legendary actor Paul Newman and NASCAR,immediately said "yes." McCullough directed, shot and edited the video, reminiscent of USO entertainers who performed for the troops during WWII, on a pro-bono budget. The video was shot at the historic Wiltern Theatre in Los Angeles, with four show stopping singer-dancers to back Mink.
"It was a great opportunity to contribute to something special and unique that would raise positive awareness and honor our troops without any bias of the war’s politics," McCullough said.
"Mr. Trooper" has gained national recognition on a variety of outlets, including Tim Conway Jr.’s popular LA-based radio show, Blog Talk Radio, the Matt Buffman Radio Show, and KSLX FM (97.1 in Los Angeles). "Our soldiers and their families have made and continue to make the ultimate sacrifice and this project is the least I can do to show my support and encouragement for our troops," said Mink.
All proceeds from sales of the "Mr. Trooper" DVD will go to programs designed to help returning troops and their families, through Veteran’s Village, a 501c3 non-profit corporation. To donate and get a copy of the Mr. Trooper DVD, please go to:
http://www.MisterTrooper.com.
