An organization dedicated to raising money to help veterans in need stopped in Mitchell to share its message in front of the Statue of Liberty mural at the Corn Palace.
Kevin Stoterau is a member of the Nation of Patriots tour. The relay carries an American flag that’s either flown at the White House or a military installation. “The flag hits all 50 states within 115 days, making stops all along the way,” said Stoterau. “A lot of the trip of the flag is on motorcycle.”
And relays it to different riders along the way. “Then I bestow upon you, the American flag and officially deem you to be a flag-bearer. Ride for honor for country and for those who protected all. Godspeed flag-bearer.” When the flag was transferred to the next rider at the Corn Palace Plaza.
Nation of Patriots mission is to raise money to help disabled veterans dealing with financial difficulties and is something close to Stoterau’s heart. “I’m helping those who have also given to our country,” Stoterau said. “And I served over half my life trying to help protect the country, and that means a lot to me.”
The riders are traveling more than a thousand miles with numerous stops in South Dakota. The group will complete its mission later this week when it delivers the flag to Fargo, North Dakota where it will continue its journey with the next group of riders.