Patriot Models is a non-profit 501(3)c organization that helps veterans with mental health and social well-being. Patriot Models was founded by Michael Blalock, Karri Blalock, and Tom Ward. Patriot Models rolls out a project each year delivering no-cost help directly to veterans.

Mission Statement

To empower veterans nationwide in their journey towards mental wellness and social connection through the therapeutic art of scale modeling, fostering healing and community wherever U. S. Veterans may be. No soldier left behind.

What is our goal?

We are a non-profit organization that wants to help all vets to a better social and mental well-being. Our goal is to put a scale modeling kit in the hands of any vet who wants help with their anxiety, PTSD, stress or any other mental or physical aliment.

The Team

Mike Blalock

I am Mike Blalock. I was born at Fort Bragg, NC but moved to Atlanta almost immediately, and grew up in the suburbs of Atlanta. I graduated high school and joined the Army. I was honorably discharged in November of 1990 and then I was recalled for Desert Storm in January of 1991. Rejoining civilian life led me to my wife (the love of my life) and the automotive field.

I worked in the automotive field for 23 years. I got burned out and decided to change careers. I became a teacher. I love to teach Forensic Science.

Being a veteran led me to serving vets through scale modeling.  This pastime is incredibly relaxing and rewarding. Having people to talk to about and connect with through scale modeling creates a positive creative network. This kind of network can be helpful with people who are having trouble transitioning into civilian life or struggling with other mental anguish.

The need here is great and the benefits here are direct and impactful.

Karri Blalock

I am Karri Blalock. I was born and raised in Western North Carolina. After graduating from high school, I moved to Metro Atlanta and met Mike. We were married the next year. I have been married for over 30 years. I have two daughters, a rabbit, a cat, and an axolotyl.

Career-wise, I was a surgical technician and then a registered vet tech. Now I teach biology and Forensic Science to high school students. I am about to become a school counselor through college courses at FAU.

This project is important to me because mental health should be a priority for everyone, especially for those who have risked their lives for our freedom. Patriot Models is an avenue for creating better mental health through a hobby that can be shared with like-minded people.

Tom Ward

I am Tom Ward. I’m from a small town in Western Oregon, and enlisted in the Army under the Delayed Entry Program as a 31V. I was stationed at the now defunct Fort Ord, CA, where I was assigned to the HQ Battalion of 2/62 ADA. After completing three years of active duty, I was honorably discharged in July of 1990.

After college, and a stint in retail, I embarked upon a 25-year career in local television broadcasting. This included 17 years as a sports anchor at KVAL-TV in Eugene, Oregon – the last 10 of which were spent leading the department as the Sports Director.

My father and brother also both served, and my entire family is a big supporter of veterans and their needs. I’m proud to support the mission of Patriot Models, and to provide both an outlet, and support for Veterans in need.

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