Road Trip #1 - Day 3 - Liberty Fest Ride

May 29, 2010
Fort Collins, CO

Wichita Falls, TX -- Today, Tim and myself along with Dad and friends rode escort for our friends Angela and Nubbin to Farmer's Branch, TX. Liberty Fest was an inaugural outdoor event celebrating America and it's military. During the opening ceremonies, Angela and Nubbin would be presented with a portrait of their son Gary S Johnston (killed in Iraq in 2007) by Phil and Lisa Taylor of the American Fallen Soldier Project.

Mom saw us off early, the three of us (Dad, Tim, Me) properly attired in identical patriotic shirts she chose specifically for this ride. The shirts say: Freedom isn't free but it is worth fighting for. After an early breakfast with Dad at McDonald's, we met everyone at a Walmart to stage for the ride. There was a good turnout for the event. We were happy to see my brother ride up. On hand also were Ray (Tex) and Laura, Gary and JeanAnn, Mike and Barbara, Charlie and many others. We were happy to see them all and pleased to be riding with them. Soon, we were traveling on Hwy 287 toward Bowie with Angela and Nubbin in the lead on their trikes.

It was a lovely Texas morning as we rode along with friends on highways we haven't been on in several years. My brother rode with us as far as Bowie. He couldn't make the whole trip because of work. Along the way, we picked up other riders and family and friends. At one stop Angela and Nubbin were presented with a flag that flew at the Gathering of the Guard last year.

It wasn't long before we were on I-35 in Memorial Day weekend traffic. Like I said, it's been long time since Tim and I have travelled these highways. We wondered as we rode along when this or that mix-master had gone up. Ha! Toward the end of the morning, the day warmed considerably so that when we finally got to the park called Liberty Plaza, we were all hot and thirsty. As soon as we were directed to suitable parking and everyone was accounted for, we gathered at our friend's request for a few moments.

Angela and Nubbin thanked us for our support. Not a one of us needed that thanks. The honor was all ours. They also presented Grinch (Grimminger) with a hand made PGR belt buckle in appreciation of his close friendship and support from the beginning of their experience with the PGR. Very touching. Then, we drug ourselves toward what has to be about the tallest flag pole I've ever seen. This is where the center of activities were located. We walked through a classic car show on the way, but didn't linger in the sun. I think we were all looking for shade.

My daughter, Stormy and new husband Rob, fresh from a honeymoon in Maui were to meet us at the park as they live nearby. Stormy found us before I had time to get her number dialed. They had seen us ride in and stopped the first rider she saw to ask our whereabouts. Seeing that we were all over-heated and parched, she immediately procured water for all of us. We had the pleasure of finally meeting Rob's parents, Linda and Martin before they would fly back to England. We also were delighted to meet Carl (age 13) and Scott (age 10). Carl and Scott are Rob's sons and the newest additions to the family.

Most of us sought shade, but a few braved the Texas sun to walk the Wall (The Vietnam Memorial Traveling Wall) with respect and honor and remembrance. Nubbin's brother, Gary C Johnston has a spot on this wall. He was lost in Vietnam in 1970. Our buddy Tex (Ray) led us to the panel on the Wall where the names of many of his friends can be found. The Wall is an awe-inspiring experience, one that can rattle the core of any patriot.


The ceremony included the presentation of the colors, the Pledge of Allegiance, the playing of taps, several speeches by local dignitaries and a DJ, and the swearing in of a couple of young soldiers. Seeing Angela and Nubbin get up to shake the hands of those brave young people was a lump-in-the-throat-moment for most of us.

Phil Taylor, spoke about the process of painting Gary's portrait, how he tries to connect with his subject through photos and memories shared by friends and loved ones. He commented that Gary was easier than most, a pleasure to paint. The young man (Gary's friend and fellow soldier) who took the picture upon which the portrait was based was also on hand. The portrait was finally unveiled and a hush fell over the crowd as Angela and Nubbin and family saw it for the first time.

The ceremony concluded with the traditional bagpipe playing Amazing Grace and then the colors were retired. Afterwards, the family was overwhelmed with a rush of people offering hugs and smiles, love and support. They were also bombarded by photo journalists and reporters.


The group who would ride back with Angela and Nubbin, gathered in a recreation building and soaked up water, gatorade and air-conditioning. First stop after getting back on the road was Chili's where we all gathered for a bite to eat. We enjoyed visiting with good friends, even some new friends.

Thanks for letting us ride along gang. And to you, Angela and Nubbin -- we were pleased to be part of such an important occasion. We wish you and yours all the best. We are proud you count us among your friends.

Below are a few photos snapped along the way. I shot some video clips as well, (still editing) so stay tuned for that.

The Ride to Liberty Fest

Liberty Fest Ceremony & Presentation of Gary's Painting

The Ride Home from Liberty Fest

Riding for Gary - Libertyfest - May 2010
Video under revision... stay tuned 7/2018

And, this is a link to a video interview.
Fallen Marine Remembered in Portrait by N. TX Artist