STURGIS, S.D. — What began as a 450-mile journey across South Dakota to honor America’s fallen service members is now coming full circle.

Following the successful completion of the 2026 Miles of Honor memorial run, founder Mai Richards is embarking on a statewide donation tour that will return $12,916 to veterans organizations, memorials, national cemeteries, and community partners across South Dakota.

The donation presentations, taking place August 6, 7, and 11, represent the final chapter of this year’s Miles of Honor campaign, transforming months of community support into direct financial assistance for organizations dedicated to preserving the legacy of those who served.

Between May 1 and May 25, Richards completed a remarkable 450-mile run across South Dakota while carrying the American flag, honoring the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the United States. Along the way, communities from across the state rallied behind the mission, contributing to the nearly $13,000 that will now be distributed back into veteran-focused organizations.

“Miles of Honor has always been about remembering those who gave everything for our country and supporting the organizations that ensure their stories are never forgotten,” Richards said. “This donation tour is the most meaningful part of the journey because we get to give back.”

The statewide presentation tour begins Thursday, August 6, with stops in Sioux Falls, Chester, Madison, and Howard, where donations will be presented to local American Legion posts and the Chester Area Veterans Memorial.

On Friday, August 7, Richards will travel to Pierre to present a donation to the Pierre American Legion.

The tour concludes during the 85th Sturgis Motorcycle Rally on Tuesday, August 11, with a public presentation from 2 to 3 p.m. at Rally Point Plaza in downtown Sturgis. The event, presented by Harley-Davidson, will include donations benefiting the South Dakota State Veterans Cemetery, Black Hills National Cemetery, and The Good Ride.

Media attending the presentations will have opportunities to speak with Richards, along with former South Dakota Secretary of Veterans Affairs Larry Zimmerman, about the impact of the Miles of Honor mission and the organizations receiving support.

While the 450-mile run served as a powerful tribute to America’s fallen heroes, Richards says the donation tour is where the mission truly comes full circle, ensuring the communities and organizations that continue honoring veterans receive meaningful support to carry that work forward.

As Miles of Honor continues to grow, the organization’s message remains simple: remember those who sacrificed everything, support those who preserve their stories, and strengthen the communities that refuse to let those sacrifices be forgotten.