1976: Roy Keppy named 'Farmers for Ford' national leader

Sept. 23,. 1976: Eldridge farmer Roy Keppy was named the national chair of the Farmers for Ford Committee of Gerald Ford’s presidential campaign. Keppy personally met with Ford, as well as representatives of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. “It was a real thrill to meet the president,” said Keppy. “He was real easy to visit with. He really impressed me … I’m honored to be asked to assist in the election of President Ford.” Keppy, a nationally known pork producer, was recruited for the position by U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Earl Butz.