"I was invited to represent Jason and the Air Force at the closing ceremony of the Faces Of The Fallen exhibit at Arlington Cemetery. Jason’s portrait was part of the exhibit since it had opened in March of 2005. It was imperative to me to be there to support the incredible founder, Annette Polan. This exhibit was one of the most touching memorials in honor of the fallen that you will ever have seen. It was at this ceremony when I met Robert M. Henry. Robert had painted Jason’s portrait for this exhibit. He was also invited to personally present me with Jason’s portrait, on display this evening. I was finally face to face with the artist that captured my son’s life in an amazing painting. All I could say to him was “Thank You”. It took Robert a moment to realize who I was. His response was “ take this portrait home-wrap it up and put it away until I’m gone. Then put it up on e-bay it will bring a good deal of money for your scholarship fund”. I just graciously smiled and replied, “you obviously don’t know me yet”! I carefully guarded this portrait and the larger one he had painted for me to replace it, also on display here, all they way home on the plane from D.C. I have the portrait(s) proudly displayed at home where all can enjoy.  I’ll proudly do so for the rest of my life.

Since my return from D.C. Robert and I have maintained contact and have developed a wonderful friendship. He has this amazing ability of saying just the right things at just the right moment. He has been extremely instrumental in aiding with the plans for this years event. It was his mission to get as many of his 180+ artist thru Eons Art Gallery to donate a piece for the auction. Many of those artists graciously donated from all parts of the country (it’s been like Christmas). Robert also drove all night from Maine to join us this evening to share our story and his gift of art." - Dawn Petersen