'Joe's Ride' tours through Mid-Michigan - ABC 12 – WJRT – Flint, MI

(08/04/12) - Saturday morning, dozens of people from throughout Michigan came together in honor of a Mid-Michigan soldier who lost his life too soon.

"It's been two years since Army Specialist Joe Johnson lost his life while serving in Afghanistan.

"Joe was a hero. He was courageous, funny, dependable and generous," said Teri Johnson, Joe's Mother.

His mother Teri organized 'A Hero's Legacy -- Joe's Ride,' a motorcycle ride Saturday morning, to help fund a college scholarship in his memory. The third annual event left from Scooters Bar and Grill in Mundy Township, traveled to Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, and visited several other spots throughout the area. 

The ride was inspired by the outpouring of support Joe's family has received from the Patriot Guard.

"When they came to Joe's funeral, it was unbelievable. These guys have become like family to us," Teri said.

As for the scholarship, it goes to a Carman-Ainsworth student. Not the one with the best grades, or the best athlete, but to someone who simply reminds Teri of her son.

"This scholarship is for a kid that when the teachers think about him, they might roll their eyes, but they always smile," Teri said.

Terri and her husband Dennis believe that Saturday's ride will go a long way in keeping their son's memory alive.

"I miss him everyday. I grieve for him everyday, but doing something like this gives me purpose, and every one of us leaves a legacy," Teri said.