My last post highlighted seven awe-inspiring attractions that I encountered on US Route 6.
Going through my notes (as I put together a US Route 6 coast to coast guidebook), I realized that I didn't include some sites that might not be grand in size but effected me deeply. One such spot was the very remote "Freedom Rock" in Iowa between the tiny towns of Menlo and Casey.
This is what I originally posted while traveling "The 6":
“Freedom Rock" www.thefreedomrock.com, drive West from Menlo on the White Pole Rd. until you come to a Greenfield arrow pointing left. Take the left, go over I80 and in a couple of miles you’ll see a painted rock. Normally crowded, this 56 ton boulder is a literal touchstone for veterans and families of the fallen who come to pay their respects. The artist, Ray “Bubba” Sorensen II (named “America’s Hottest Husband” by Redbook Magazine a few years back), uses the ashes of fallen vets mixed with paint in his poignantly rendered war scenes. He repaints the 5 or 6 ft. tall boulder every Memorial Day. This year, he included “ 5-15-11; Justice Served.”
Young Bubba now wants to take his talent on the road - creating murals for Veterans Hospitals and Military Memorials.
I am a big fan of Dancing With the Stars - and this past Monday I sobbed uncontrollably when injured Iraq Veteran-turned-actor, J.R. Martinez danced a tribute to the soldiers who never made it home. Seeing that and then remembering my stop at Iowa's Freedom Rock, I dedicate this post to all those who fight for our country and for our freedom.
Thanks also to Ray "Bubba" Sorensen II for keeping our soldiers and veterans in our minds and hearts.
Going through my notes (as I put together a US Route 6 coast to coast guidebook), I realized that I didn't include some sites that might not be grand in size but effected me deeply. One such spot was the very remote "Freedom Rock" in Iowa between the tiny towns of Menlo and Casey.
This is what I originally posted while traveling "The 6":
“Freedom Rock" www.thefreedomrock.com, drive West from Menlo on the White Pole Rd. until you come to a Greenfield arrow pointing left. Take the left, go over I80 and in a couple of miles you’ll see a painted rock. Normally crowded, this 56 ton boulder is a literal touchstone for veterans and families of the fallen who come to pay their respects. The artist, Ray “Bubba” Sorensen II (named “America’s Hottest Husband” by Redbook Magazine a few years back), uses the ashes of fallen vets mixed with paint in his poignantly rendered war scenes. He repaints the 5 or 6 ft. tall boulder every Memorial Day. This year, he included “ 5-15-11; Justice Served.”
The Freedom Rock Ray "Bubba" Sorensen II Menlo, IA |
The Freedom Rock Ray "Bubba" Sorensen II Menlo, IA |
The Freedom Rock Ray "Bubba" Sorensen II Menlo, IA |
I am a big fan of Dancing With the Stars - and this past Monday I sobbed uncontrollably when injured Iraq Veteran-turned-actor, J.R. Martinez danced a tribute to the soldiers who never made it home. Seeing that and then remembering my stop at Iowa's Freedom Rock, I dedicate this post to all those who fight for our country and for our freedom.
Thanks also to Ray "Bubba" Sorensen II for keeping our soldiers and veterans in our minds and hearts.
The Freedom Rock Ray "Bubba" Sorensen II Menlo, IA |
you do some beautiful work it's fantastic
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