Service photo of Brandon Merriman
A live concert is set June 20 to benefit an American hero following an accident earlier this year.
The event is being hosted to benefit Brandon Merriman of Stephenville and his family as artists Dewayne Terry (performing American Soldier, a tribute to Toby Keith), Noah Claunch and Bobby Luster with Tommy Scales perform at Melody Mountain Ranch.
Organizer Gary Bills reported that tickets and sponsorship tables are still available for the event. (They can be reserved/purchased by calling/texting Bills at 817-2335141. Tickets are $100 each ($110 if paying with a credit card) while sponsorship tables for eight are available for $1500 and come with special VIP benefits.
“We’re paying travel expense for the bands,” said Bills. “Everything else is going to Brandon.” Bills is appreciative of the talent who’s agreed to play saying crowds will get a great show.
Active military with ID get in free and there will be a group military photo op for artists. An auction will also feature signed guitars by performers as well as items donated by local merchants and individuals.
Brandon Merriman served as a U.S. Air Force combat controller for 17 years before he was medically retired due to injuries resulting from deployment. He was deployed more than 11 times to various locations and earned accolades including 7 Bronze Stars (5 with Valor), a Purple Heart, Meritorious Service Medal and three joint commendations with valor medals.
Merriman was injured in a UTV accident Jan. 24, 2026 during the Texas winter storm. He was ejected from the vehicle, and it landed on his head and chest. He sustained a brain injury and fractures to his skull, neck, sternum and ribs. He also suffered a stroke and frostbite.
The veteran spent five weeks in ICU with an additional three weeks inpatient before he was transferred to Baylor Scott and White Institute for Rehabilitation. He spent six weeks there, working on cognitive and physical skills to regain mobility. He is currently inpatient at the VA Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center in San Antonio.
“Just the fact that he’s still here is a miracle,” said Bills, who has known the Erath veteran since he was a kid. “He’s actually doing great. Hopefully, he’ll be at the concert.”
Bills said tickets will also be sold at the door, but they are limited. “When they sell out, they’re gone,” he said.