CHICAGO - Feb. 22, 2026 - PRLog -- Noah Coughlan, the 42-year-old ultra-runner and filmmaker from California, has officially entered Illinois on his inspiring "Run for America: A Tribute to the American People," a demanding 260-day, 5,500-mile solo trek across the remaining States, dedicated to honoring America's upcoming semiquincentennial 250th Birthday on July 4, 2026.
With just six states left—Wisconsin (45), Minnesota (46), North Dakota (47), Oregon (48), Alaska (49), and Hawaii (50)—Coughlan presses onward, set to finish in Hawaii at the Pacific Ocean on Independence Day, positioning him to become only the third person ever to cross all 50 U.S. States entirely on foot.
Noah is crossing Illinois for the third time on his fifth and final Run across America. He will continue through the Joliet, Downer's Grove, and Naperville areas enroute to Wisconsin.
He is currently on Day 128 of 260 with 2,400 miles complete of 5,500 total.
From its humble start in Kansas in October 2025, Coughlan's solo tribute has grown into a profoundly viral and unifying force, resonating deeply from Maine to New York through the Great Lakes region and into Illinois. Thousands of supporters have flocked to cheer him in towns across upstate New York, Michigan, Indiana, and beyond—enduring harsh winter conditions to offer encouragement, share personal stories, and join in tributes to World War II veterans, first responders and everyday Americans.
His message is simple, and not political. Americans are one People with a shared history, the American Flag belongs to all of us, and a fundamental recognition of the very existence of America after 250 years. A message of unity. A message of peace.
Viral videos reaching millions, dozens of TV news features, courtesy safety police escorts, and heartfelt social media shares have captured genuine moments of connection, spreading his core message far and wide: "Americans have a lot more in common than they do apart." The journey has become a powerful symbol of the American Spirit, resilience, and the strength found in everyday people coming together.
As Coughlan advances through the heartland toward the remaining States, his run continues to spotlight the warmth and kindness he encounters along the way. Followers across the country are invited to track his progress at https://www.runforusa.com/
With the Nation rallying behind him, Coughlan's resolve shines brighter than ever: the American people are giving him every reason to keep going, one step at a time.
Coughlan can be reached at noah@runforusa.com
Photos: (Click photo to enlarge)
Source: Run For America 2026
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