As volunteers for the Nation of Patriots, we would like to extend sincere thanks to many who have helped start our 2015 Nation of Patriots Tour.

American Legion Post 56 in Albert Lea sponsored a flea market and craft show Feb. 27 and 28. In addition to this sponsorship, lead by John Severtson and David Olson, Bonnie Schneider of the American Legion Auxiliary also donated to our fundraiser. Legionnaire Larry Trampel  spearheaded enlisting assistance through Thrivent Financial for Lutherans.

At this same time, Western Star Lodge No. 26 Ancient Free and Accepted Masons also made a donation to assist this fundraiser.

Albert Lea Chapter 2377 of the Harley Owners Group also rented tables and all sales generated were donated to this cause.

This collaboration has resulted in a total of $2,079.96 as a 2015 kickoff. As volunteers with the Nation of Patriots, 100 percent of the funds raised go to helping combat wounded veterans and their dependents. All positions in the Nation of Patriots are 100 percent volunteer, making this 501c (3) tax exempt entity totally focused on assisting combat wounded soldiers.

The Nation of Patriots 2015 Tour will start on Memorial Day in Wisconsin. A flag flown in combat will be escorted throughout 48 states until Labor Day when it returns home to Wisconsin. This year the flag will be received on Sept. 1 at Bergdale Harley-Davidson when it is escorted here from Eden Prairie.

On Sept. 2, the Albert Lea HOG Chapter will invite any volunteer riders to join us as we escort the flag to Zylstra Harley Davidson in Ames, Iowa.

Throughout 2015, we will continue fundraising for this cause. The public is invited to join this group of volunteers raising funds or escorting the flag in honor of our veterans, past and present. Thank you to each of the solidiers in our Armed Forces from the bottom of our hearts. Godspeed to them on each mission, and please know the honor and respect you have from all of us.

If you know of a combat wounded veteran in need of assistance, please refer them to us for consideration of these benefits. We work closely with the veterans services offices, American Legion and VFW groups as well as Purple Heart chapters and citizens to seek recipients. Our recipients will receive benefits from the funds we are able to raise during the final two months of 2015.

 

Mark Harig

volunteer

Nation of Patriots

Harley Owner’s Group

Albert Lea Chapter