Every year Nation of Patriots organizes a national effort that pays tribute to and honors all of America’s armed forces – past, present and fallen. This is the eighth year the Albert Lea Harley Owners Group participated in the Nation of Patriots Tour. This year, the Nation of Patriots route was changed. Instead of receiving the flag at the end of the tour, we received it at the beginning.

On May 31, approximately 35 bikes arrived from the Mason City Harley Owners Group chapter. The ceremony was quite emotional for all that were there to witness the event. We started the ceremony with the National Anthem followed by the transferring of the flag from Mason City HOG chapter flag bearer to the Albert Lea American Legion and the Veterans of Foreign Wars honor guard. Several young men from the Knights of Columbus Cub Scouts Pack No. 105 joined the ceremony as our newest honorary honor guard.

While the honor guards received and folded the flag, the 12 steps as to why our flag is folded into a triangle was read. Following the flag folding was the transfer and reading of the Riders Oath to our flag bearer. The final piece was the Proclamation readings by the city of Albert Lea mayor and Minnesota senator. We served approximately 125 to 130 patriots at our evening meal at Bergdale’s Harley Davidson.

On June 1, we lead 55 bikes and 77 riders from Bergdale Harley Davidson to Crow River Harley Davidson in Delano. You couldn’t have asked for a nicer day to ride. Safety was a concern as we were traveling into the outskirts of the metro area. We are so very thankful to all of the police and sheriff’s departments, American Legion Riders Post 56 and safety vehicle by Vern Eide for a safe journey to and from Delano.

There are so many of you that have contributed to the success of this two- day event. It speaks volumes as to your commitment and support for our combat-wounded veterans and their families. So many people have no idea what combat-wounded veterans and families endure. With your commitment and donations to the Nation of Patriots, we hope to show our appreciation for their many sacrifices.

We are truly humbled and very grateful for your participation. Our combat wounded veterans and their families also thank you! You have touched their lives forever!

Nation of Patriots will be working with our veteran services and the Military Order of Purple Heart to find our combat wounded veterans.

Please join us on Nov. 11 at the Albert Lea American Legion for the presentation. As of June 7, we had over $9,000 and will continue to fundraise until October. If you need more information on donating to the NOP, please contact Bill Koza at 507-383-7457.

Thank you so much for being a major part of a very successful and touching 2017 Nation of Patriots Tour.

God bless you all and God bless America.

Bill Koza

volunteer

Nation of Patriots