Ray Sorensen painted his very first Freedom Rock in 1999, and he repaints most of that special one every year in time for Memorial Day–to thank American veterans and families for their service and sacrifice. It’s located just south of I-80 along Highway 25 between Menlo and Greenfield.
He’s been painting Freedom Rocks in Iowa’s 99 counties ever since. The Dallas County Freedom Rock is his 82nd in Iowa.
Each Freedom Rock is covered by an American flag mantle, the banner these men served under and which protects all Americans.
July 23, 2019. Photos by Larry Cornelison.
A storyboard will give more details about the men featured Freedom Rock, as well as other Dallas County heroes. The sidewalk is finished, and a flag pole and landscaping will be added this fall.
The Minburn American Legion Osborne Post #99 sponsored the project. Fund raisers were throughout the county for this outstanding and creative way to remember and honor our veterans.
Plans are in the works for a fall dedication ceremony.
What a compelling news story about the Sorensen family from 2014.
Wow very detailed!
It is wonderful that someone uses his talent and takes the time to do such remarkable work for his state. Others would be wise to use Ray as a role model!!
It all started not far from his small hometown with the original graffiti-covered boulder.
I’m glad he kept up with his ‘hobby’.!!
This so beautiful. What a talented young man. Thank you for the picture of my Dad and his brothers
Ray Sorensen is an Iowa treasure!
You and your family must be so pleased to have the five Wilson brothers honored in this way.
And so amazed. I’m so thankful their sacrifice isn’t forgotten after all.
Once upon a time, I dated a 4-H boy from Sully. I’m glad to see one of the Freedom Rocks is there, in my home county of Jasper. It’s a wonderful project. I’m hoping to visit the area in the next year, and to tend to my parents’ graves in Newton. If I do, I’ll be sure to make a side trip, to see “our” rock.