Ashton Johnson Memorial Gala, 2023
Preparations for the 2nd annual AJM Black Tie Gala are already under way and we are working hard to make this year even more successful than last year.
This year the Gala will be held in October, 2023. The date and location of the venue are still being decided and we will post details as soon as they come available.
The primary goal of the Gala Event is to raise money for the organization in order to provide scholarships to veterans seeking a career in aviation. To that end, we have been working diligently to get items for our silent auction. Last year, we were fortunate to have an amazing list of sponsors and donors who made our Black Tie Gala and Auction incredibly successful. This year, we are hoping to surpass last year’s donations and we can only achieve this through your help.
Earlier this month, our founder, Joey Johnson spent the morning and afternoon assisting a veteran non-profit organization, called The Halo for Freedom Warrior Foundation. Their mission is to provide support for Wounded Warriors as they face the many challenges encountered during their rehabilitation, reintegration and healing process. A remarkable organization, run by some remarkable people.
Joey got to meet some of the amazing volunteers, including
- Aaron Tippin – Country Music Star
- Russel ‘Red’ Steagall (Actor/Musician)
- Buck Taylor (actor from Gunsmoke)
- Donald ‘Doc’ Ballard (Medal of Honor Recipient)
All 4 signed a huge canvas print of Joey’s Stearman, which will be up for auction at the Gala.
Another memorable moment was having the opportunity to meet World War II veteran, Corporal Don Graves (USMC Retired). Corporal Graves served with the 5th Marine Division and fought in one of the bloodiest Pacific campaign battles, Iwo Jima
In keeping with the Western Theme, we attended the Fort Worth Stock Show this year and were lucky enough to meet Taylor Sheridan and Cole Hauser (Rip from Yellowstone). They both signed a guitar, which will also be up for auction.
We are all very grateful for these donations and we look forward to this years Gala Event. The success of these events relies on the generosity of our supporters and we greatly appreciate every donation received.