World War II Veteran receives his print from Cape Coral artist Rick Kelley during his appearance at the Southwest Florida Military Museum and Library

Artist Rick Kelley, who’s patriotic American Freedom Series is winning acclaim nationally, appeared at the Southwest Florida Military Museum and Library in Cape Coral on June 25th to give out signed copies of his inspiring prints to veterans.

Through the project called “Families of Our Fallen,” Kelley has been donating one of the patriotic images of his “Freedom Series” to families of fallen soldiers throughout Southwest Florida in gratitude for the selfless efforts of the soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan.

The eagle, American symbol of pride and strength, is prominent in the series, which began with the painting “On Freedom’s Wing.” Kelley made the painting after the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks against America in 2001.

“America’s strength and beliefs have made this country home to people seeking freedom,” Kelley said in explaining the meaning behind his painting. “Like the Bald Eagle, we can soar to great heights and weather any storm. We can achieve our dreams by riding On Freedom’s Wing.”

The response to that painting was so great that Kelley was inspired to create “Liberty’s Flight”, the second in the series.

To commemorate the 10th anniversary of the 9-11 attacks and to honor the memory of all who were lost, Kelley produced “Reflection of Freedom.” The painting is an interpretation of the heavens sending back two rays of light as a tribute to this nation’s strength and unity in time of crisis.

“The Homecoming” is another dramatic painting that honors those who serve, or have served our country as well as others who have gone beyond the call of duty. It portrays a young man in camos heading down the dusty road towards his hometown, but the print is filled with heartwarming symbolism, including a F-16 fighter, fireman, Mother Teresa, Martin Luther King, The Pentagon and Flight 93.

Kelley will return to the military museum and library for a public display of his patriotic art on July 4th. The Invest in America’s Veteran’s Foundation plans a full day of activities at the museum that day, including a special dedication ceremony for the historic 37-star American flag, which is on loan to the museum, live music and tours of the military museum.

Written by: Jim Zbick (Invest In America’s Veterans Foundation Curator)