Gary's Story: Life After Sutton

12-10-07 Gary Brugman's new life begins Monday, December 10, 2007 and his excitement is almost uncontrollable. On this day, Gary Brugman climbs into his MATCO Tools truck and embarks on a promising, new career (see pictures below). Generous and patriotic Americans have banded together to help make it possible financially, and MATCO Tools recognized a good man when they saw one. MATCO Tools has a company policy which excludes franchise opportunities for convicted felons, and they made an exception for Gary.

After U.S Attorney Johnny Sutton unjustly and maliciously sent Gary to prison for two years, his life was in shambles. He lost everything. His wife, his home, everything !! Through it all, however, Gary never lost hope and he has always remained proud to be a citizen of the greatest country on earth.

In February 2007, Gary's story was made public for the first time in an article which was posted on the American Freedom Riders website (See Gary's story here ). The response was immediate and overwhelming. By now Johnny Sutton's pattern of malicious prosecution was also public knowledge. Support for Gary spread like a wildfire. Though still on probation and rightfully concerned about retribution from Sutton, Gary courageously supported justice for more recent Sutton victims, Ramos and Compean and Hernandez. Everyone who met him recognized the depth of his character and the sincerity of his patriotism.

When Gary first mentioned a MATCO Tools franchise, he spoke of it as merely a dream. He recognized it as a financially rewarding opportunity but, just as important, as a 20 year Harley rider and shade tree mechanic, Gary loves tools. Just a dream he thought. He was soon to be reminded that dreams sometimes come true.

On October 8, 2007, the American Freedom Riders published a request for donations to enable Gary to meet the requirements for the Matco Tools franchise (See request here). The generous response is clearly documented. Gary now owns a MATCO Tools franchise, and if he could thank every single supporter individually, he would do it.

Gary's supporters are far too numerous to credit individually, but a few contributors stand out for their tireless and effective effort. Houston businessman and radio talk show host Edd Hendee assisted Gary in the franchise negotiations and also effectively solicited contributions. Popular San Diego personality and radio host Roger Hedgecock and his producer Jimmy Valentine are unrivaled in their dedication and support of Gary. Tara Setmayer, senior aide to Congressman Dana Rohrabacher, applied her superhuman energy to gather support. Monica Ramos and Joe Loya, wife and father in law of currently imprisoned Border Patrol agent Nacho Ramos, spread the word at every possible opportunity. More than anyone, the Ramos and Compean families understand the devastation Gary has suffered.

This chapter in the story of Gary Brugman should serve as a vivid reminder to all of us that, even though our government constantly disregards the will of the people, we can still make a difference when we stand side by side and show the true patriotic resolve which founded this country.

A note from Gary is included below, and the American Freedom Riders website will be posting periodic reports from Gary as he builds his business and rebuilds his life.

Screw you, Johnny Sutton.

Danny Smith
American Freedom Riders

Note from Gary, 12-10-07

To the People of America,

I want to say thank you to all of you. Thank you for helping me get my life back on track, for helping me keep my sanity, and especially for supporting Agents Ramos and Compean in one of the worst times of their lives. But another thing I wanted to thank you all for is for helping me believe in America again. Since my conviction, I had given up on America, the National Anthem and the Pledge of Allegiance.

However, that has changed. I wish there was a way I can thank each and every one of you that has helped me get back on my feet and restore my faith. Maybe one day I will be able to do so…but please, know that your letters and contributions have made it to me and I have been touched by every single one. I have to thank several people who made this possible, people who have changed my life. Tara Setmayer, Danny Smith, Edd Hendee, Pat Gray, Roger Hedgecock, Jimmy Valentine, Ted Poe, Nacho Ramos, Gilmer Hernandez, Nicole Van Mir, Laura Ingraham, Dale, Bryan and everyone at MATCO Tools and of course, you the people.

Today I start my route in San Antonio and we will see what the future brings. I have a long way to go, but I'm on my way thanks to all of you. It has taken me almost two years to get my head together, but through lots of prayer and blessings from the Lord, things are falling into place. I would not have gotten this far without the Lord Jesus Christ. Thank you America, for helping me get my life back.

If there was any way possible for me to go back and serve you again, I would. I loved saving lives in the Coast Guard, and I loved protecting the border so much, I will never get over it. I love the Border Patrol; it's still in my heart and in my blood to be a Border Patrol Agent. I may be in the MATCO Tool business, but I will always be an Agent. My blood will always be green forever.

One more thing I ask, PLEASE…let's not forget about Ramos and Compean. They are still in solitary and away from their families for doing their jobs, protecting you and your children. God Bless us all.

Honor First,
Gary M. Brugman
Wrench Boxes, LLC
maxxhd@gmail.com