The "Why"
Why We Ramble
The Ramblin' Roosters Riding Club, Incorporated, was born in June 2024, thanks to the visionary efforts of two extraordinary individuals, former Police Officer Brian Morris and ex-Army Captain Sean Morres. With deep roots in service and an unwavering commitment to creating positive change, Brian and Sean have combined their unique experiences and shared passion to establish a powerful platform for community impact. Their dedication to making a lasting difference is the driving force behind the Ramblin' Roosters, inspiring others to join them in their mission to effect meaningful change and contribute to the greater good.
D. Brian Morris, our esteemed President, affectionately known as the "Cock of the Walk," channels his energy into this cause as a heartfelt tribute to his cherished family. In memory of his father, Ralph L. Morris, LtCdr, USN retired (who succumbed to Alzheimer's in February 2016), his mother, Lynn Morris (who lost her battle with lung cancer on November 23, 2023), and his sister, Tracy Lynn Morris (tragically murdered on January 2, 1999), Brian is driven by a deep sense of purpose. "This is something I have to do," Brian reflects. "My parents instilled in Tracy and me the importance of helping others and making a difference. For them, I will dedicate my remaining days to living up to their example. Now that I’m 61, with perhaps limited time ahead, this mission feels more urgent than ever. It will be my 'last hurrah.'"
Sean Morres, Vice President and co-founder of the Ramblin' Roosters Riding Club, embodies a life of service, leadership, and community dedication. A proud graduate of Stetson University with a degree in Business Administration, Sean's life trajectory was forever altered by the events of 9/11, which occurred during his college years. Heeding the call to serve, Sean joined the Army National Guard and ROTC, ultimately becoming a commissioned officer in the U.S. Army. His service on the front lines of the Global War on Terrorism (GWOT) further solidified his commitment to making a difference, both at home and abroad.
Ralph, Lynn, and Tracy Morris (circa 1990-ish)
This simple, innocuous photograph captures the last time all three beloved individuals "posed" together, taken at their family home in Madison, Alabama, right around the time Tracy graduated from Nursing School. This same home became a place of deep sorrow when, in 1999, Tracy was tragically murdered just a few miles away by Jason Michael Sharp, a man who had stalked her for over a year.
Jason first crossed paths with Tracy under circumstances steeped in irony. Down on his luck and desperate to support his pregnant wife, he knocked on the Morris family's door, seeking work. True to their generous spirit, Ralph, never one to turn away someone in need, offered Jason a chance to earn money by detailing the family’s cars. Tracy, following her father’s example of kindness, allowed Jason to clean her Jeep. Sadly, this act of compassion sparked an unhealthy obsession in Jason, leading to devastating consequences.
Reflecting on this tragic turn of events, Brian shared, "In this case, they helped the wrong person, but you can’t let that stop you from caring about others. If you did, evil would always win."
Despite the heartbreaking loss of Tracy, her legacy of saving lives as a dedicated nurse was honored and uplifted on June 6, 2012. On this day, Alabama’s Governor, Robert Bentley, signed into law the legislation known as Tracy's Law. Authored by Brian in late 2010, he devoted nearly two years to advocating for its passage, securing unanimous, bipartisan support in both the State House and Senate chambers. Tracy’s Law provides law enforcement with a vital tool to bring stalkers into the court system before they can turn violent, a measure that has already saved countless lives and will continue to do so in her memory.
Melody "Dingy" Trevino, (circa 1975)
Melody is Brian's "lost sister". Affectionally known as "Dingy", she was one of 6 children who were sexually abused and trafficked by her mother in Virginia in the mid 1970's. Ralph and Lynn served as foster parents for the State of Virginia back then, and Dingy was the first child they fostered.
At the tender age of 11, this was Brian's first exposure to any kind of child abuse, and it left an indelible imprint on his heart with a deeply seated hatred for rape and sexual abuse; especially for child victims. Dingy is the reason he is so adamant about ending the exploitation of children.
The state came one day while Brian (then age 13) was at school and took Dingy away, ultimately returning her to the mother that exploited her. He never saw her again.
Sean Morres, VP, "Rooster 2"
For nearly a decade, Sean dedicated himself to the military, where he supervised over 150 soldiers as a Company Commander and held various leadership roles. His time in the service saw him earning numerous decorations, a testament to his unwavering dedication and exemplary leadership. After many tours and an honorable discharge, Sean transitioned to civilian life, carrying with him the values and skills honed in the military.
Sean's heart has always been with his community. His sense of service inspired him to co-found the Ramblin' Roosters Riding Club, a platform through which he channels his passion for making a positive impact. Through the Ramblin' Roosters, Sean aims to create lasting change and achieve ambitious goals, driven by the same dedication and spirit that defined his military and professional careers.
Whether leading soldiers, building businesses, or rallying his community, Sean Morres embodies the principles of leadership, service, and commitment to a greater cause. His journey is a testament to what can be achieved when one combines passion with purpose.
D. Brian Morris, President, "Rooster 1"
My friends, life is full of tragedies that touch us all. But it's not these hardships that shape who we are; it's how we respond to them that truly defines us. I've faced my share of sorrow, but nothing has been as heart-wrenching as losing my mother recently. We were incredibly close, especially since we were the last two surviving members of our family. Her passing has left me feeling profoundly alone, and there are days when the weight of it makes me want to give up. It would be so easy to succumb to despair, to just lie down and wallow in my grief. But in those moments, I hear my father's voice echoing in my mind, urging me to "Turn two, boy. Turn two, and resume ship's work!" (That's navy jargon for "get off your ass and get back to work.")
Who am I to wallow in self-pity? I'm not so special that I should be spared from pain, especially when I know so many others have faced far greater hardships. We all have our crosses to bear.
So, I embark on this journey with a heartfelt desire to make a difference, to keep pushing forward until the day comes when I reunite with my mom, dad, and Tracy. I will "turn two" and continue my mission with resolve.
Turning two. Aye, aye, Sir. ...indeed, I will.
Won't you join us?
~Brian