News Photo by Steve Schulwitz A group of people show their pride for the American flag and President Donald Trump during a Freedom March in Alpena on Saturday. Similar rallies were held in many places nationwide and were geared toward showing support for law enforcement, the Constitution, and holding government officials accountable.

ALPENA — About two dozen people gathered for a Freedom March in the parking lot behind Alpena City Hall on Saturday to salute law enforcement, firefighters, health officials, and to call for the protection of the Constitution.

The Alpena event was one of many nationwide and was organized by the American Patriot Council, which describes itself online as an organization whose goal is to restore and sustain a constitutional government in the U.S. It says in its mission that the group is inclusive to all, and condemns the use of violence as a form of political action. It claims other missions are to respect the rights of others, hold politicians accountable, and advocate that all Americans deserve the same, equal treatment and justice.

The organization also has a petition on its website that also calls for the arrest of Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, Attorney General Dana Nessel, and Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson for conspiracy against the rights of the people in Michigan during Whitmer’s stay-at-home order this spring that was designed to slow the spread of COVID-19.

The group also condemned other groups who conspired to kidnap Whitmer and attempt to overthrow the state government. Fourteen men recently were arrested on state and federal charges for allegedly plotting to kidnap Whitmer and put her on trial for abusing her power during the pandemic.

In Alpena, the group’s message was less about the government and more about showing support for essential workers during the pandemic, the military, the Bill of Rights, and President Donald Trump.

“This has been a tough time for everyone, especially our children, and I just wanted to have a peaceful event where people come together and show its love and support the community, because I think we are all patriots here,” local organizer Tara Lay, who is a former Army veteran and firefighter, said.

With a few snowflakes falling during the afternoon, those in attendance had their vehicles decked out in red, white, and blue in support of the American flag, and most had flags expressing support for Trump and his reelection. There were more than a few horn honks from motorists who drove by, and attendees waved flags, such as a pink Women for Trump and a Tea Party flag, in response.

For the most part, attendees were socially distanced or stayed in their vehicles and there were few large groups of people. Some wore masks, while others chose not to while they were outdoors. One couple wore Trump 2020 facemasks.

Lay said there were no counter groups who protested the rally and no harassment from anyone who may have opposing views, or concern about the group’s mission.

“We have had nothing but positive reactions,” she said. “People have honked or yelled out, ‘America,'” she said. “It has been a peaceful event.”

With the presidential election just around the corner, Lay said it’s important for “patriots” to get out and vote. She said not doing so could have longstanding consequences.

“It could be the difference between America as we know it,” Lay said. “It could fall into ruin, or there could be another civil war or revolution. As a veteran, I took an oath to protect my country against all enemies, both forein and domestic, and that oath still stands today.”

Steve Schulwitz can be reached at 989-358-5689 at sschulwitz@thealpenanews.com. Follow him on Twitter @ss_alpenanews.com.