At the 2024 Black Tie and Boots Gala, guests danced the night away, honoring Michael Ashton Johnson’s military service and his loves of aviation and country music.
On December 3, 1992, it was a cold day in Fort Worth, Texas when Michael Ashton Johnson came to us from the Lord above. Growing up in Keller, then a small town in the northern part of Texas, his chubby cheeks and contagious smile made Ashton an instant hit. His playful rowdiness and fearless spirit quickly became his most recognizable traits.
While in college, Ashton heard the call to serve his nation. His talents and skills qualified him for some of the most difficult and technical specialties. He became a specialist in a very highly technological branch of the U.S. Army dedicated to air defense. While stationed at Fort Bliss in El Paso, he was inspired to fly by his commanding officer, a former Blackhawk pilot.
After years of sports and other adrenaline-inducing activities, on June 26, 2020, Ashton achieved the milestone he had long dreamed of—his first solo flight. Sadly however, Ashton’s life was tragically cut short on October 4, 2021 when the weight of the world’s stresses and anxieties had taken its toll.
Determined to ensure his legacy would live on, his father Joseph (Joey to many), created the Ashton Johnson Memorial CloudDancer Scholarship, a fully accredited 501(c)(3) organization that carries forward Ashton’s dream by assisting veterans who also seek careers in aviation. Through the foundation, Ashton’s love for adventure, generosity of spirit, and dedication to helping others will continue to inspire for generations to come.
Since its inception, the Ashton Johnson Memorial CloudDancer Scholarship has awarded 15 scholarships, helping veteran aspiring aviators take flight toward their dreams. Through the generosity of supporters and the dedication of Ashton’s family and friends, his spirit continues to inspire and uplift those who share his passion for aviation.
Over the years, the organization’s annual gala has been the key force propelling its mission. Every October, the foundation hosts the Black Tie and Boots Gala—a western-themed celebration set in the heart of the historic Fort Worth Stockyards. Ablaze with cowboy hats, boots, and western skirts, the event is the highlight of the year for the organization and for many who attend. Combining the spirit of Ashton’s gift for country dance and his love of flight, the event regularly generates donations well into the six-figure range, ensuring that support for our nation’s brave veterans will continue for years to come.
Successes Propelled by the CloudDancer Scholarship?
Introducing First Officer William Francis, American Airlines 737 pilot and veteran of the U.S. Army. William was one of the foundation’s first recipients in 2022. With financial assistance provided by the foundation and mentorship, he soon found his way into the cockpit of a commercial airliner. He now serves on the Foundation’s board of directors on the scholarship committee.
Meet James Halepaska, a U.S. Marine veteran. James received his CloudDancer scholarship in 2023. Having enrolled full time in flight-school, the scholarship enabled James to stay focused on the task and not the financial burdens of flight training. He quickly rose through the ranks to become an assistant chief flight instructor and is now enjoying his success as a full-time corporate pilot.
Alex Foster of the U.S. Air Force Reserve received his scholarship in 2023 and has successfully completed his flight training outside of a formal flight school. Alex took his flight training along the slow and steady route owed to his military obligations that impeded his ability to focus full time on his studies. Despite the pace, he took great pride in each step and completed all the necessary certifications. He is now a full-time pilot for pipeline patrol.
The Foundations’ list of recipients now extends to fifteen, and we are extremely proud and gratified to have been able to help each one reach for their dreams. Every year, past recipients connect out to us for guidance, mentoring, and to provide reports of their training and/or professional accomplishments. We couldn’t be prouder of them all—from those still in the infancy of their training to those who are in the advanced stages of their careers. We extend our heartiest congratulations to all.
Let the Tradition Carry On
This year, on October 4, guests will enjoy a Texas-style buffet, live country music, and a night full of boot-scooting’ fun at the Black Tie & Boots Gala in Fort Worth. The highlight of the evening is the live auction, featuring handcrafted goods, authentic western wear, and other unique treasures that are sure to spark some spirited philanthropy. And let’s not forget the live country music that’ll have everyone two-steppin’ ’til the cows come home! Local music legends, Jolie Holiday and Sonny Burgess return to our Gala for a fourth year and will have us boot scooting into the night!
For further information about the scholarship foundation and the October 4, 2025 Black Tie & Boots Gala, visit https://clouddancerscholarship.org and https://www.facebook.com/clouddancerscholarship/. We also invite you to see these videos:
Informational Videos
Informational Videos
Michael Ashton Johnson Memorial CloudDancer Scholarship
Learn about the Ashton Johnson Memorial CloudDancer Scholarship, how it helps veterans, and how to support this cause while having fun at the annual Black Tie & Boots Gala
An Evening to Remember: Black Tie & Boots Gala 2024 Recap
