George Strait surprised residents of Rockport, Texas with an appearance at a local Ace Hardware earlier today (Sept. 21).
Videos by Wide Open Country
The country star visited one of the areas hardest hit by Hurricane Harvey with Gov. Greg Abbott to help lift the spirits of those still struggling to recover from the storm. As word spread of his impromptu appearance, hundreds of fans flocked to the store's parking lot to greet Strait.
On a makeshift stage made from wooden pallets, Strait told the crowd of his love for the town and his sadness over the devastation Hurricane Harvey caused.
During his message to the crowd, he talked about how he and his wife have owned a home near Rockport for many years and have a deep love for the town. "You're not forgotten, we're gonna keep a light shining on this area," he told the crowd. "We love the way [the town] was and we're gonna get it back there. I want to go fishing!'
After the brief address, he went into the crowd to personally greet fans. He signed autographs, posed with babies and shared stories.
https://twitter.com/CallerAcosta/status/910906109195583488
.@GeorgeStrait visits #Rockport with @GovAbbott #HurricaneHarvey pic.twitter.com/SvdaqHriJp
— Rachel Denny Clow (@Rach_Clow) September 21, 2017
https://twitter.com/CallerAcosta/status/910897834844655618
.@GeorgeStrait joins @GovAbbott, Commissioner Sharp, Mayor Charles Wax of Rockport & @DHSgov US Secretary Elaine Duke in #Rockport, TX. pic.twitter.com/q12N793SWa
— Rebuild Texas Today (@RebuildTXtoday) September 21, 2017
.@GeorgeStrait visits #Rockport with @GovAbbott #HurricaneHarvey pic.twitter.com/wxFJNrdgwV
— Rachel Denny Clow (@Rach_Clow) September 21, 2017
Just last week, Strait performed a benefit concert for Harvey victims in San Antonio. The show was a part of the Hand In Hand Hurricane Telethon, which raised over $44 million for hurricane relief.