On October 19, 1977, Lynyrd Skynyrd was inarguably the greatest rock band touring the USA and played what was their final concert in Greenville, South Carolina. While enroute to Baton Rouge on October 20th, their plane crashed in the remote woodlands of southwest Mississippi, killing 6 passengers to include frontman Ronny Van Zant, guitarist Steve Gaines, and backup vocalist Cassie Gaines. Forty-three years later, their classic southern rock ballads are remembered worldwide - everyone has a favorite Skynyrd song! The episode begins with Lee Kjos describing why Skynyrd remains his all-time favorite band. We then visit personally with Ronnie Van Zant's childhood friend and bodyguard, Gene Odom, and several Amite County, Mississippi locals who first responded to the crash. What was growing up in Jacksonville like for Ronnie Van Zant? How'd they develop their band name, what events inspired their lyrics, and what was it like touring with them? What kind of guy was Ronnie Van Zant and how would he likely have wanted to be remembered? What do first responders most remember about that day? What compelled them to privately fund and to recently construct a beautiful Lynyrd Skynyrd Monument nearby? Having met these guests and heard their stories, what's Ramsey's final take on it? All of these questions and more, to include some incredible never-before-told anecdotes, in today's very special episode of Duck Season Somewhere.

More Info:

Contact Gene Odum on his social media to inquire about touring Lynyrd Skynyrd sites around Jacksonville, Florida.

Hanging Out With Gene Odom (YouTube Channel)

Gene Odom Entertainment (Gene's Facebook Page)

Lynyrd Skynyrd Monument Facebook Page

Lynyrd Skynyrd Monument Website

Special thanks to our friends at Outdoor Country Talk podcast for introducing us to this story.

Episode Sponsors:

BOSS Shotshells

Benelli Shotguns

Kanati Waterfowl Taxidermy

GunDog Outdoors

GetDucks

USHuntList

It's truly duck season somewhere 365 days per year. Host Ramsey Russell chases waterfowl worldwide, year-round. Follow Ramsey's duck hunting adventures:

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