The Patriot Tour concluded its Mississippi stop Sunday as a single American flag continued its hand-to-hand journey across the country to raise funds and awareness for disabled veterans and their families facing financial strain. The multi-state ride, organized by Nation of Patriots, brings together veterans and members of the biking community for a more-than-120-day trek through all 50 states.
Community riders, veteran flag bearers and local impact
At each stop, the flag is carried by veteran bearers and local riders who want to show support for service members coping with hardship. Kathy Collins-Lantz, regional commander for Alabama and Mississippi, said the organization’s work fills a vital need for veterans across the region.
“We’re honored to do this because there’s a lot of veterans out there in our community and statewide, nationwide, that need assistance, and Nation of Patriots has come through for them,”
Mississippi flag bearer Stephen Carrington described the mission as more than a ride. He emphasized the tour’s focus on helping veterans, raising funds and increasing public awareness among civilians.
Grant assistance and organizational reach
Nation of Patriots, founded by Bill Sherer, has made a measurable impact since its inception. Last year, the organization provided more than $13,000 in direct assistance to five disabled Mississippi veterans and their families through its grant program. Nationwide, the group reports more than $2 million raised and assistance given to over 800 veteran families.
- Flag travels from a different launching state each year.
- Cross-country trip lasts more than 120 days.
- Flag is passed hand-to-hand by veteran bearers and local volunteers.
The Patriot Tour’s presence in Mississippi offers local veterans a visible reminder that support networks exist beyond government programs, and it provides an entry point for civilians to learn about veterans’ needs in their communities.
| Metric | Figure |
|---|---|
| Mississippi veterans assisted (last year) | 5 families |
| Mississippi assistance provided | $13,000+ |
| Nationwide funds raised | $2,000,000+ |
| Veteran families helped nationwide | 800+ |
For Mississippians who want to learn more or support the Patriot Tour and Nation of Patriots, the organization maintains a website with details on the route, donation options and how to nominate veterans for assistance. The tour’s ongoing stops also present opportunities for local communities to host events, volunteer as flag bearers or help spread awareness about available grants.
This event underscores how volunteer-driven efforts and veteran-led initiatives can deliver targeted financial help where it’s needed most. The tour will continue its cross-country schedule, carrying that single flag to the next state as riders and veterans press on with their mission.
