In the heart of Adair County, Iowa, artist Ray ‘Bubba’ Sorenson has once again brought the community together with the unveiling of the 2026 Freedom Rock. This annual tradition, now in its 28th year, honors the sacrifices of Iowa’s fallen heroes and celebrates the rich military history of the United States.
Set against the backdrop of towering windmills and a bustling highway, the Freedom Rock has become a cherished landmark for locals and visitors alike. Each year, Sorenson dedicates his time to repaint the rock, incorporating new tributes and stories that resonate with the community’s values of faith, family, and patriotism.
Honoring Iowa’s Fallen Heroes
This year’s mural includes poignant tributes to four recently fallen service members from Iowa. Their stories are immortalized alongside images of U.S. presidents who also served in the military, such as George Washington, Ulysses S. Grant, Theodore Roosevelt, John F. Kennedy, and Dwight D. Eisenhower. These leaders are remembered not only for their presidential legacies but also for their dedication to serving the nation.
One of the most sacred elements of the Freedom Rock is the depiction of a Vietnam War-era helicopter. Sorenson has incorporated the ashes of more than 175 Vietnam veterans into the paint used for this section, making it a hallowed part of the artwork. This year, the ashes of three more veterans, including Gary French of Colo, were added during a solemn ceremony.
Commemorating Historical Anniversaries
The 2026 design also marks significant anniversaries in American history. Sorenson highlighted the 165th anniversary of the Medal of Honor, a prestigious award given to over 3,000 recipients whose stories of valor and bravery are akin to those of superheroes. Additionally, the mural commemorates the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001, attacks. It features imagery of the World Trade Center rubble and the iconic flag raised by firefighters, accompanied by the words ‘Never Forget.’
For those who pass by, the Freedom Rock serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring sacrifices made by service members and the profound stories that continue to inspire generations. Sorenson’s dedication to this project reflects the community’s commitment to honoring the past while looking forward to a future grounded in faith, family, and individual liberty.
Original reporting: WQAD (Quad Cities) — read the source article.
