Rolling Thunder Chapter 2 Wisconsin

10/14/2026

Help make this kid from western Wisconsin Birthday a special day.

*** Mail Call (Mount Hope, WI) ***

"In January 2026, a young Soldier whom I had the honor of enlisting into the Wisconsin Army National Guard was involved in a devastating car accident.

After completing only his second drill weekend after being handed off to his unit, he was on his way home when severe Wisconsin winter weather caused him to lose control of his vehicle and collide head-on with a snowplow.

Since that day, SPC Koehn has been fighting a battle far greater than anything he could have imagined.

For nearly nine months, he has remained hospitalized, recovering from life-altering injuries that required multiple surgeries, including the placement of plates and screws to repair broken bones, as well as brain surgery.

But his story is about more than the injuries he has endured. It’s about a young man who had a dream of serving his country, wearing the uniform, and being part of something bigger than himself.

On October 31st, SPC Koehn will celebrate his 20th birthday.

His mother has reached out with a simple but heartfelt request: She would love for her son to receive birthday cards, letters of encouragement, military patches, and other small gestures of support to help brighten his days during his recovery.

Whether you’ve served for 20 years, just raised your right hand, or simply support those who wear the uniform, you have an opportunity to make a difference in this young Soldier’s life.

A birthday card, a unit patch, a handwritten letter, or a few words of encouragement might seem like a small gesture to us, but to a young Soldier spending his 20th birthday in the hospital, it could mean the world."

Cards, letters, and patches can be sent to:
SPC Cayden Koehn
PO BOX 124
Mount Hope, WI 53816

10/10/2026

Today Rolling Thunder Wisconsin Chapter 5 joined Chapter 2 to es**rt Derek Thomas Floerke Funeral.
He dedicated much of his adult life to the Wisconsin National Guard and ultimately achieved the rank of Sergeant First Class. As a full-time member of the National Guard, Derek served two tours in the Middle East with the 147th Aviation Battalion.
Throughout his military career, Derek received numerous awards and commendations recognizing his service, dedication, and accomplishments including: Army Commendation Medal-4, Army Achievement Medal-3, Army Good Conduct Medal-3, National Defence Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal W/2 Campaign Stars, Inherent Resolve Campaign Medal W/Campaign Star, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Armed Forces Reserve Medal W/M Device & 10 Year Bronze Hourglass, NCO Professional Development Ribbon-3, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, WING Service Ribbon, WING Write Medal-8, Senior Aviation Badge, Meritorious Unit Commendation.
Though Derek quietly carried the heavy burdens of PTSD and addiction, those struggles could never overshadow the man he truly was: a beloved son, brother, uncle, veteran, and loyal friend whose strength, love, and heart touched everyone who knew him.
Derek was the Twin brother of Emily Harris, the sister in law of President Tim Harris!
Our condolences go out to the Floerke Family, Emily Harris and anyone who was touched by his presence! Rest easy my friend we have it from here!

10/03/2026

A sad day for the state of Wisconsin! We have the watch from here. Rest easy!

It is with profound sadness that the Wisconsin Department of Transportation and Wisconsin State Patrol announce the line-of-duty death of Trooper Bradley Ritger at the age of 29.

On September 21, 2026, Trooper Ritger was responding to a traffic pursuit when he deployed a tire deflation device on a bridge deck west of the Dunn County/Eau Claire County line. As he moved to a position of cover, he fell from the bridge onto the roadway below. Despite lifesaving efforts and critical medical care, Trooper Ritger succumbed to his injuries on October 2, 2026.

Trooper Ritger joined the Wisconsin State Patrol as a member of the 67th Recruit Class. He served in the Northwest Region for nearly five years, primarily in the Dunn County area. During his career, he attained certifications as a general law enforcement instructor, mobile field force team member and squad leader, and salvage vehicle inspector. Prior to his service with the Wisconsin State Patrol, Trooper Ritger served with the Wisconsin Department of Corrections for three years.

Trooper Ritger was a dedicated public servant whose strong work ethic and positive presence left a lasting impact on anyone who had the privilege of knowing him. He approached every situation with professionalism, integrity and a genuine commitment to serving others. Whether assisting the public, supporting his fellow troopers, or taking on difficult challenges, he consistently demonstrated compassion and willingness to help wherever needed. His dedication to his family and unwavering commitment to his profession will not be forgotten.

We extend our deepest sympathy to Trooper Ritger’s family, friends, loved ones and all who served alongside him. As the community mourns, the Wisconsin State Patrol has placed a law enforcement memorial vehicle at its Northwest Region Post in Eau Claire where the public is welcome to drop off cards, flowers, or other condolences.

Out of respect for the family, no additional information will be shared at this time. Funeral arrangements are being made by the family. We kindly ask media and the public to respect their privacy and space for grieving.

09/28/2026

Need a Kringle by Thanksgiving or Christmas?? We have you covered. Feel free to message us to order your Kringle. If you live out of state no worries we can ship it to you! Shipping not included in price of the Kringle!

09/25/2026

Today we have the honor of partnering with the Masonic Brotherhood Council to do a Picnic for 300 Veterans!

09/18/2026

Today is POW/MIA Recognition Day! We are here to remember those Prisoners of War! Today we remember all the Missing In Action!
We are here with Rolling Thunder Wisconsin Chapter 5 and Vice President of Rolling Thunder, Inc. Chapter 3 Fl. , Today we were apart of the POW/MIA ceremony here at the Wisconsin state Capitol Building!

09/17/2026

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09/11/2026

Where were you when the world stopped turning? ~ Alan Jackson

08/26/2026