Patriot Tour Return

press release: On Saturday, Sept. 7, as many as 1,000 riders are expected to escort the American flag from Madison to Beaver Dam on the final leg of its 110-day, 14,500-mile  journey, completing the 10th Annual Patriot Tour. The flag is transported through all 48 continental states via a city-to-city motorcycle relay raising funds for and honoring America’s veterans in need, confirmed Bill Sherer, founder and executive director of the Nation of Patriots. A 501(c)3 organization powered entirely by volunteers, the Nation of Patriots gives 100 percent of funds raised via the Patriot Tour and other initiatives directly to veterans who need assistance.

At noon the rider escort group and several military vehicles will follow the flag in parade formation through Beaver Dam’s downtown to historic Swan Park. The flag will be retired during a homecoming ceremony that begins in the Park at 1 p.m. and includes a Junior Patriot Tour, the presentation of the Warrior’s Medal of Valor, appearances by state and local dignitaries and Mrs. Wisconsin, food, refreshments, patriotic activities for all ages and music by One 2 Many Band.

“All are welcome to ride, to line the parade route through downtown Beaver Dam and join us at Swan Park for the 10th annual homecoming ceremony and celebration,” Sherer said. “We have so much to celebrate, including crossing the $1 million milestone in funds raised and distributed to this point. America’s veterans deserve our deepest respect and highest praise. Anything that the Nation of Patriots can do to ease their burdens, relieve some stress and show gratitude for their service and sacrifice is time and money well spent.”

Since its inception the Nation of Patriots has assisted more than 400 veterans and their families across the country. Assistance has come in the form of housing, food, clothing, much-needed home and vehicle repairs, medical access and more, Sherer said. “We work with veterans organizations to vet the requests and understand the need,” he added. “Sometimes the biggest challenge is getting past a veteran’s pride to let us help. I can’t think of a more deserving audience.”

Beaver Dam was named the Official Home of the Nation of Patriots in 2018 and has been the official launch and homecoming point of the Patriot Tour since 2015. Details about the 10th Annual Patriot Tour Homecoming and ways to get involved, donate and join the celebration can be found at nationofpatriots.org.

Ceremony Features:

Mrs. Wisconsin 

Kim Galske, the reigning Mrs. Wisconsin, began her military career as a Marine and now serves in the Army National Guard. 

Kim is also the executive director of Salute the Troops, a non-profit organization whose mission is to provide financial assistance and supportive programming to veterans and their families.

Galske is a featured speaker at the closing ceremony. 

The Warrior’s Medal of Valor 

The Warrior’s Medal of Valor is the first medal minted specifically for Native American nations to honor military personnel. The medal is presented for brave service U. S. military capacity.

The Prescott Intertribal Warrior’s Society in Arizona is the source of this award for veterans.  A 501(c)3 non-profit organization, the Prescott Intertribal Warrior’s Society provides the Warrior’s Medal of Valor free of charge to all veterans, regardless of service during wartime or not. 

The Warrior’s Medal of Valor will be presented during the closing ceremony.

Junior Patriot Tour 

For children ages 3 - 11.

During the closing ceremony children with decorated bikes, strollers wagons, pets or patriotic fashion will parade past spectators gathered at Swan Park. Goodie bags will be given to the first 100 children registered as well as prizes for the “most patriotic” in three age groups. 

Prizes include: 5 bicycles, 2 kick scooters, a bowling party for 10, a sand truck and others. 

Prizes will be announced and distributed during the ceremony.

Other activities and highlights:

One 2 Many Band 

Tunes with attitude. A blend of blues, rock, country, R&B and punk. 

Outdoor Veteran Exhibits

‘ Wisconsin Remembers: A Face for Every Name’ 

‘Vietnam Experience’ military impressions exhibit

Kid Friendly Activities

Patriotic face painting sponsored by the 4-H Club.

Making bracelets and cards for soldiers and veterans through Operation Gratitude.

The Ninja Warrior obstacle course sponsored by Martial Arts America.

Food & Beverages 

Texas Roadhouse

Tina's Teas and Coffee 

Gray Beard BBQ 

4-H Club 

Taher Foodservice 

Wisconsin Brewing Company