On the evening of December 24, 2001, fire destroyed the nine stall barn at Walkaway Farm in Bell Buckle, TN. Owned by Jerry and Tammy Fears, the entire barn, horse equipment, tractors, and supplies were a complete loss.
The five head of horses lost were three World and World Grand Champions - Personal Pride, Power Glow, and Power Walker, along with Maxx Out and Dun That. The Fears' popular breeding stallion, Personal Power, was able to escape as he had a stud paddock attached to his stall, and the outside door was open.
The Fears' had left the farm briefly for a Christmas Eve dinner when the fire occurred. Jerry Fears stated, "Due to the kindness of the horse community, we are back up and functioning. We couldn't have gotten back and might not have even wanted to if it hadn't been for the kindness of the horse people."
Note from Jerry and Tammy Fears -
"We would like to express our sincere gratitude to friends and family who have been so supportive through the tragic loss of our five horses and barn. We know that the prayers and closeness of friends has helped us through this tragic time. To those who buried our horses, helped clean up, helped rebuild the new barn, brought hay, tack, gave gifts, loaned equipment, stabled Power, brought food, sent cards, offered prayers, and cried with us - your kindness and compassion has been overwhelmingly great. The horse community has certainly been there for us during this time. We feel so privileged to know so many great people. The lives of our horses that we loved so much will remain in our memories forever, as will the friends who have helped us through the last few months. Thank you all so much!"