DEERFIELD, Ill., Feb. 2 /PRNewswire/ -- It was nearly one year ago when multi-platinum duo Montgomery Gentry and NASCAR(R) driver Robby Gordon, as well as 5,000 screaming fans, gathered to celebrate the beginning of the NASCAR race season while honoring America's troops.


Jim Beam(R), the world's No. 1-selling bourbon, is proud to once again host "Beam Bash," the 2nd annual charity concert featuring country-rock duo Montgomery Gentry on Friday, Feb. 13, at Bruce Rossmeyer's Destination Daytona. A portion of each ticket sold will go to the Operation Homefront(R) Florida Chapter. Operation Homefront provides support and morale to U.S. troops, to the families they leave behind while they serve, and to wounded warriors when they return home.


"This is a fantastic organization to support, and we're proud to be here with Jim Beam for another year," said Eddie Montgomery. "It's an unbelievable feeling to know, in addition to performing for an audience, you're also performing for an important cause."


Jim Beam's first-ever "Beam Bash" raised $18,000 for the Operation Homefront Florida Chapter. The event was highlighted by a spontaneous "toast to the troops" as Montgomery Gentry, Robby Gordon and Jim Beam seventh-generation distiller Fred Noe gave a shout out during the concert.


"This event is significant for Operation Homefront because it raises public awareness about our programs and services, and has delivered significant funding for the Florida state chapter," said Amy Palmer, chief operating officer, Operation Homefront. "This year, we're hoping to raise $25,000 for the military families throughout Florida."


A giant check will be presented to Operation Homefront during the concert, denoting the total charitable contribution from the evening's event.


"We often overlook the sacrifices made by the courageous men and women in uniform," said Fred Noe, seventh generation distiller and bourbon ambassador for Jim Beam. "'Beam Bash' is not only an opportunity for race and country music fans to be entertained, but also a chance for these fans to thank our troops for defending the very freedoms that enable us to enjoy our favorite pastimes, such as racing."


Montgomery Gentry, nominated for a Grammy award in 2008, expressed great enthusiasm for being selected to headline the event for a second year. The band's association with Jim Beam dates back to 1994, when Troy Gentry won the Jim Beam National Talent Contest. For the past eight years, Jim Beam has sponsored the Kentucky-born duo, helping to bring Montgomery Gentry's live shows to thousands of concert goers across the country.


"We're grateful Jim Beam is giving us this opportunity to entertain, and at the same time show our support for the men and women of the United States armed forces," said Troy Gentry. "Knowing the great reception we received last year, it's an honor to help Jim Beam kick off the 2009 NASCAR racing season with this event."


Robby Gordon, veteran driver of the No. 7 Jim Beam Toyota(R) Camry(R) in NASCAR's top series, will attend the concert and introduce the band. Two days later, Gordon will get behind the wheel of the Jim Beam Toyota and race against 42 drivers in the season-opening NASCAR race at Daytona International Speedway.


"Our race team is thrilled to have Jim Beam back as our primary sponsor for the fifth consecutive season," said Gordon. "Jim Beam is known for celebrating true character and things that are 'real.' No group embodies that spirit better than Montgomery Gentry, and our team is honored to be a part of the second annual 'Beam Bash'."


Tickets for "Beam Bash" go on sale Monday, Jan. 26 and will be available at Destination Daytona Hotel & Suites and The World's Largest Harley Davidson(R) Store in Ormond Beach, Fla. or by calling 866-642-3464. Tickets are $15 in advance or $20 at the door and a limited number of tickets are available.