Rangely hosts third annual Freedom Walk

NOTE: In the below article about the third annual Freedom Walk in Rangely honoring local veterans and first responders, Rangely residents Frank Huitt, his son Ryan, and Sam Tolley should have been named as event hosts, according to Mr. Huitt, not VFW Post 5261, as was published.

The HT regrets the error.

RANGELY I In northwest Colorado, a complaint against rain is akin to blasphemy. As veterans, first responders, and their families gathered at Hefley Park on Thursday, June 23, for the third annual Freedom Walk hosted by Rangely V.F.W. Post 5261, rain showered the event. As the attendees began to march toward Elks Park, the clouds gave way to the sun and cleared the way for the barbecue to follow. House District 26 candidate Savannah Wolfson spoke to the crowd to share her family’s dedication to freedom and her gratitude for those who have and continue to serve.

Rangely is an ideal location for the pursuit of the American dream. Wide-open skies, connected neighbors, and family values allow children to grow up slowly and safely, families can achieve their dreams with hard work and support to buffer difficult times. It’s the dream that veterans and first responders volunteer their lives to protect.

Air Force veteran Mike Miller attended with his daughter Kathy Kottenstette and her daughter, Harper. Miller loves his country and those who serve and sacrifice for the liberties we enjoy. They enjoy keeping the pride alive for the next generation.

V.F.W Quartermaster Michael Gillard shared the story of his first deployment immediately after 9/11 with his infantry division. His 15 years of service in the U.S. Army included three tours in Iraq as part of the 3rd Infantry out of Fort Benning, Georgia, and the 4th Infantry out of Ft. Carson, Colorado. Since returning from the front lines, he enjoys family time and being involved with the community as a member of the VFW to help fellow veterans find the necessary support that he needed to recover from the experience of war. Michael and his wife, Wendi, recently fulfilled their dream of owning and operating a ranch where they care for goats, geese, horses, donkeys, and sheep. The ranch lifestyle incorporates animal therapy, a popular and recognized therapy style for its healing capabilities, especially for combat veterans and those who experience PTSD. Wendi highlights another form of therapy for veterans and their spouses that aims to strengthen marriages after returning home, bringing couples together in Alaska for a weeklong retreat. The couple enjoys the life they have built here in Rangely and the opportunities it offers them to live and serve in the community. Wendi works as an EMT for Rangely Health and Wellness Center and wears many other hats, while Michael currently works for Scout Energy Partners. The Gillards are from southwest Wyoming and have called Rangely home for 11 years. The family includes nine children and two grandchildren.

Army Ranger Gary Hinaman was also in attendance. Quite the storyteller, Gary openly shares details of his service in Vietnam. He used to be very private about his service as Vietnam vets were not treated respectfully or kindly upon returning from duty. When his daughter was a senior in high school, her history teacher, Mark Janson, asked him to talk to the students and share an honest perspective. Hinaman reflects that Janson had every student write him a thank you, which was the first time anyone had thanked Hinamen for his service. This experience helped Gary feel appreciated and encouraged to share his service experience. Since then, Hinaman has written a book, “The Ranger,” which includes slides from his service and describes in-depth details, including the impact of PTSD. Gary enjoyed sharing numerous life and service stories, a recent family photo, and his pride in his wife and children.

Freedom isn’t free. Rangely and Rio Blanco County have a large population of veterans and service families. Multiple support avenues connect interpersonally and professionally to serve those who served our beloved country. The Freedom Walk is just one way that the local community honors them. Special recognition to Frank Huitt for inducting and coordinating the event each year. Thank you for your service.