Those who have been in FFA know that the youth organization is larger than just their chapter, their region, or even their state.
And, it’s no secret that many roots of country music are planted firmly in agriculture. In fact, some celebrities, like country music star Trace Adkins, were even members of the FFA in high school, donning the blue corduroy jacket the National FFA Organization is so well-known for. In fact, Adkins was the president of his FFA chapter in his high school in Sarepta, Louisiana.
The artist is known for supporting the National FFA Organization, serving as a spokesperson for the organization, and actively promoting agricultural education and the values of FFA. Over the years, he has participated in various FFA events, including concerts and fundraisers, to support the organization’s initiatives and to encourage youth involvement in agriculture.
Adkins, who grew up on a farm in Louisiana, often speaks about the importance of agriculture and rural life. His connection to farming and rural communities aligns well with FFA’s mission to support and educate young people about agriculture, leadership, and career development.
However, after losing his FFA jacket in a house fire, the artist was missing that iconic piece of his history.
“My house burned about 15 years ago or something like that,” shared Adkins. “So it burned up my jacket, and I didn’t think I would ever have another one. I mentioned it to my wife a few weeks ago — I saw a kid wearing his FFA jacket, and I said, ‘Gosh, I wish I still had my jacket. It’s too bad.’”
Fifteen years later, during the National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas, Nevada, the National FFA Organization partnered with Wrangler to gift Trace Adkins with a new, FFA jacket embroidered with his name and chapter.
“She just took the ball and ran with it, and here we are,” said Adkins. “So, Merry Christmas to me!”
»Related: The evolution of FFA: From corduroy jackets to all-inclusive
