About Ride for Veterans Board
Mission Statement
Ride for Veterans exists to honor, inspire, and recognize the brave men and women who have laid their lives on the line for this nation. We serve as a reminder to those who feel forgotten that they are still valued, respected, and deeply appreciated.
Through direct action, we strive to create meaningful change—encouraging both veterans and civilians to step forward, get involved, and make a difference. Our mission is built on a simple truth: they once took the first step for us, and now it is our duty to take that step for them.
Ride for Veterans demonstrates what is possible when ordinary people choose to act with purpose.
A little About the President
James Greer – Biography
James Greer is a U.S. Army combat veteran of Operation Desert Storm and a Special Agent with the Federal Government. With over two decades in law enforcement, Greer has dedicated his professional life to service, integrity, and the protection of others.
Following his military service with the 1st Infantry Division—known as the “Big Red One”—Greer continued his commitment to public service through a long and distinguished law enforcement career. His work has consistently focused on accountability, truth, and safeguarding national security.
In 2022, Greer undertook a personal mission that would ultimately define his next chapter of service. Riding a Kawasaki KLR650 motorcycle from Leonardville, Kansas to the Arctic Circle and back—covering more than 8,400 miles in under 22 days—he set out to raise awareness for veteran suicide. That journey, completed in less than 19 days under harsh and unforgiving conditions, became the foundation for what is now a national nonprofit organization.
Greer is the Founder and President of Ride for Veterans, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization dedicated to providing hands-on support to aging and often forgotten veterans living in long-term care facilities across the United States. Through long-distance missions—conducted by volunteers who ride motorcycles or drive at their own expense—Ride for Veterans delivers essential items, companionship, and dignity to those who have already given everything in service to their country.
Under Greer’s leadership, the organization has reached thousands of veterans, logging tens of thousands of miles across the nation. The mission is built on a simple but powerful principle: those who served should never be forgotten. With no paid staff and a commitment to ensuring the vast majority of donations directly impact veterans, the organization reflects Greer’s belief in accountability, sacrifice, and purpose-driven service.
Greer is also the author of Arctic 22, a memoir chronicling his journey to the Arctic Circle and the deeper purpose that emerged from it. His writing and speaking focus on resilience, service, and the often unseen struggles faced by veterans—particularly those in their later years.
He resides in Kansas with his wife, Laura, and remains actively engaged in both his professional career and his nonprofit mission. Through every mile traveled and every veteran visited, James Greer continues to live out a lifelong commitment to service
one mission, one mile at a time
Vice President Richard Blomquist
Mission Statement
Leadership Partnership
Richard Blomquist and Founder James Greer speak daily—not just about the organization, but about life, purpose, and the responsibility of giving back. Through those conversations, they have built a strong bond rooted in a shared commitment to serving others.
What began as support for a single mission—a motorcycle ride to the Arctic—has grown into something far greater. Blomquist helped transform that mission into a national 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to serving veterans he had never met.
He continues to help drive that mission forward, proving that when people commit to something bigger than themselves, meaningful impact follows.
A little about the Vice President
Richard Blomquist – Biography
Richard Blomquist serves as the Vice President of Ride for Veterans, where he plays a critical leadership role in advancing the organization’s mission to honor and serve aging veterans across the United States.
Raised in the Milwaukee, Wisconsin area, Blomquist built a highly successful career as a business owner in the insurance industry. Through years of leadership and dedication, he established a reputation for integrity, accountability, and a commitment to taking care of others during some of the most challenging moments in their lives. His success was not defined solely by business growth, but by the trust he earned and the people he served.
After retiring from a long and accomplished career, Blomquist relocated to the Sarasota, Florida area, where he resides with his wife. While many in his position choose to step away from responsibility, he made a different decision—to continue serving.
Blomquist brings a unique and powerful perspective to the mission—one grounded not in shared military experience, but in a genuine commitment to serve others. His continued involvement reflects a deep respect for veterans and a belief that giving back is a responsibility that extends beyond personal history.
As Vice President, Blomquist provides steady leadership, strategic support, and a grounded perspective that helps guide the organization forward. He plays an essential role in mission planning, organizational structure, and ensuring that every effort remains focused on direct, meaningful impact for veterans.
Blomquist’s character is defined not by what he had to do—but by what he continues to choose to do. His commitment serves as a reminder that service comes in many forms, and that the decision to step forward and give back is one that defines true leadership.
one mission, one mile at a time
Coordinator Samantha Brown
Mission Statement
Coordinating Smiles and Change
Samantha rides ahead of the group, preparing residents for the arrival of Ride for Veterans. She connects with staff and veterans, building excitement and anticipation long before the motorcade arrives. Through her energy and genuine care, she spreads cheer among the veterans—ensuring that when we arrive, it’s more than a visit—it’s a moment they’ve been waiting for.
A little about our Coordinator
Samantha Brown – Biography
Vice President Richard Blomquist presents the 2025 Mission Flag to Samantha Brown
Samantha Brown serves as the Organization Coordinator for Ride for Veterans, where she plays a vital role in planning, communication, and the successful execution of missions that support aging veterans across the United States.
Professionally, Brown is a dedicated schoolteacher who has chosen to work with mentally challenged children—demonstrating a level of patience, compassion, and commitment that defines both her career and her character. Her work in the classroom reflects the same values she brings to Ride for Veterans: consistency, care, and a genuine investment in the well-being of others.
Her commitment to service extends well beyond her profession. Brown has been actively involved in her community, including serving ten years on the local school board, where she contributed to shaping educational policy and advocating for students, families, and educators.
In addition to her work in education and community leadership, Brown volunteers with a state-level veteran suicide prevention organization that works directly with the Kansas Governor’s Office. Through that role, she is engaged in addressing one of the most critical issues facing the veteran community today, helping bring both awareness and meaningful support to those in need.
Brown represents service by choice. She does not come from a military background, yet she stands alongside those who served—driven by a deep respect for veterans and a commitment to give back. Her involvement reflects a belief that service is not defined by past experience, but by present action.
As Organization Coordinator, she is instrumental in ensuring that missions run smoothly, volunteers stay connected, and every detail aligns with the organization’s purpose. Her ability to organize, communicate, and follow through makes her an essential part of the Ride for Veterans leadership team.
Beyond her professional and volunteer roles, Brown is deeply grounded in family. She is married, a mother of two boys, and a proud grandparent—values that shape her perspective and strengthen her dedication to serving others.
Samantha Brown represents leadership built on consistency, compassion, and action—quietly ensuring that meaningful work gets done and that no veteran is overlooked.
one mission, one mile at a time