The American Legion Riders

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

2010-02-02T09:11:00.000-08:00

American Legion’s Operation Comfort Warriors
competes for $250K Pepsi grant
Votes Needed!

INDIANAPOLIS (Feb. 2, 2010) – The American Legion’s Operation Comfort Warriors is competing for a $250,000 grant to be awarded by Pepsi Cola, Inc. There are 729 charities competing for grants, which are determined by number of votes received online. As of this morning, Operation Comfort Warriors was third in voting. The top two vote getters will receive quarter-million dollar grants. Rules allow voters to vote for Operation Comfort Warriors once a day through the month of February.
Visitors can cast their votes at http://www.refresheverything.com/operationcomfortwarriors.
Since December 2008, the American Legion family has raised funds for Operation Comfort Warriors, a program dedicated to meeting the needs of wounded military personnel, providing them with comfort items not usually supplied by the government. OCW ensures that patients at U.S. military hospitals and warrior transition units are given items like sweat suits, DVDs, puzzles, electronic devices, books, calling cards and more.
“The wars in Afghanistan and Iraq continue. Military service will always include inherent dangers from training and other hazardous duties,” American Legion National Commander Clarence E. Hill said. “As long as our men and women are in harm’s way, there will continue to be wounded warriors. The American Legion needs to be there for our heroes. Operation Comfort Warriors is an excellent way to show our appreciation for their sacrifices. I urge all Americans to show their appreciation by voting for it on the Pepsi Refresh Everything Web site.”
All administrative and marketing costs for Operation Comfort Warriors are paid for by The American Legion, meaning 100 percent of all donations and grants received go to the troops.
With a current membership of 2.5-million wartime veterans, The American Legion was founded in 1919 on the four pillars of a strong national security, veterans affairs, Americanism, and youth programs. Legionnaires work for the betterment of their communities through more than 14,000 posts across the nation.
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Media contacts: Marty Callaghan (202) 861-2700; Joe March or John Raughter (317) 630-1253, Cell (317) 748-1926 /(317) 441-8847. A high resolution photo of National Commander Hill is available at www.legion.org.

More+than+900+soldiers+bound+for+Haiti

2010-01-15T11:27:00.000-08:00

More+than+900+soldiers+bound+for+Haiti

New Riders Forum on main American Legion website

2010-01-12T07:53:00.000-08:00

Our web site development team is launching an American Legion Forum on www.legion.org, part of the new roll-out of services and interactive content on the Legion's website.

To take part in Rider discussions, even start a new discussion thread of your own, visit www.legion.org/forum and sign in. Read posts, participate in ongoing discussions, and even start your own.

Bill Sloan (AWACS)

Fundraising!

2010-01-06T06:22:00.001-08:00

Mr. Sloan,

My name is Wesley Thompson I am a SFC in the US Army and an active member of both the American Legion and Legion Riders at Post 192 in Evans, Ga. Since, joining the Legion riders, I have become very impressed and active in campaigning for the Legacy Fund. It is a matter that hit very close to home for us at post 192 as a fellow rider recently lost a brother in Afghanistan leaving behind his wife and 4 kids.

Over the years, I have seen many different companies and organizations execute different events to raise money for various veteran causes such as the Wounded Warrior Project. Recently, I attended a shootout in Ga where different companies donated various firearms for raffle with all the proceeds going to the Wounded Warrior Project. This got me thinking....What I would like to propose is creating and raffling an American Legion Rider "Legacy Bike". What I would like to do, is approach several large companies and organizations which have demonstrated support to veterans over the years for donations. With these donation a motorcycle would be purchased and the bike would be custom painted to project the spirit of the "Legacy Run". Next, tickets would be made available for sale, mainly through a website, where anyone could go an purchase them. All of the money raised from ticket sales would go to the Legacy fund. The bike would be ridden on the Legacy Run, and upon completion, the new owner would be drawn and contacted. I think this could be not only a great opportunity to raise funds, but could be an opportunity to create a website where photos of the bike being built and word could really get out about the Legacy Fund, the Legion Riders, and the Legion as a whole.

I would appreciate any opinion you have on this. Still being a new member I have not been exposed to all the rules and regulations which would deal with a situation like this. It would be a undertaking none the less and I know it is not something I could accomplish myself, but I would love to spearhead the opportunity. I do not believe I would be able to accomplish it this year (my first born is due on August 16th...hopefully I will be able to make the run!) but for 2011...I am on board!

I look forward to your feedback and I appreciate your time.

Respectfully,
Wesley Thompson

Yarnell, AZ Chapter and Post 79 welcomes all ALR!

2009-12-21T12:23:00.000-08:00

American Legion Post 79 said...
We have a very active Riders group at our post in Yarnell, AZ. Please stop in and visit us if you are traveling our way. Information and directions are on our site: http://americanlegion79.org

American Legion Post 79 Yarnell, AZ where the weather lets you ride year round.

Legacy Run Registration NOW OPEN for 2010.

2009-12-18T08:49:00.000-08:00

Registration for The American Legion Legacy Run, August 22-26, 2010, is now open. You can find the 2010 registration/waiver form at www.legion.org/riders/legacy, or contact legionriders@legion.org.

This year the Legacy Run will travel approximate 1350 miles from Indianapolis to the convention city of Milwaukee.

The final 2010 route, looping to the west from Indianapolis before turning north and back east into Wisconsin and the Milwaukee area, will be finalized and announced in the Spring of 2010.

Register early to be placed back into your 2009 groupings.

As a special treat in 2010, we will be joined by a group of Royal British Legion Riders, who will travel from Great Britain to be a part of our annual run. To learn more about the RBLR, visit their website at www.rblr.co.uk

See you all in late summer!

AWACS

Despite pain and injuries, wounded vets head out on cycling trip

2009-12-18T06:35:00.001-08:00

Despite pain and injuries, wounded vets head out on cycling trip

Posted using ShareThis

Legion Riders Escort Ride2Recovery in Florida

2009-12-14T09:40:00.000-08:00

Legion supports veteran's fight for flagpole

2009-12-04T10:21:00.001-08:00

Legion supports veteran's fight for flagpole

Posted using ShareThis

Marine Corps vet encourages wounded warriors

2009-11-18T11:59:00.005-08:00

Klay South prowls the hallways of Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, visiting wounded warriors and making life a bit easier for them. Some patients are amputees, some severely burned. Others are scarred and disfigured by torso or facial wounds. South, a Marine Corps veteran, isn’t motivated by sympathy. He relates to these troops because of his own combat experience.

On Veterans Day 2004, during the first battle of Fallujah, South was struck in the face and leg by bullets fired from an insurgent’s AK-47 rifle. A field tracheotomy saved his life, and since then he’s endured more than 40 surgeries and procedures to reconstruct his face. When he visits wounded warriors, he knows their pain. He can look them in the eyes and honestly tell them that life will get better.

South, 33, is the founder of Veterans of Valor, a nonprofit organization formed to help meet the needs of severely wounded servicemembers with specific items, services and programs. During his hospital visits, South distributes hundreds of backpacks with iPods or Sony PlayStations, zip-up hoodies, breakaway pants and other items. Each backpack is valued at more than $500.

“I know what these brave men and women are going through,” said South, after visiting a double-amputee patient. “I have a titanium jaw. I lost 22 teeth and 20 percent of my tongue. Physical recovery is sometimes easier than the mental or emotional aspects of healing. I want them to think down the road, not about their current condition. Things will get better. I’ve survived the journey, and they will, too.”

Besides hospital visits, South invites wounded warriors, their families and caregivers to an evening away from the hospital. During his San Antonio visit, 700 servicemembers and guests enjoyed food, games and camaraderie at a Dave & Buster’s restaurant. Eighty members of the Texas American Legion, Auxiliary and Sons of The American Legion volunteered to pair up with wounded servicemembers and help in any way they could – even if it meant just listening.

Delegates at The American Legion’s 91st National Convention in Louisville, Ky., unanimously passed Resolution 108 to support the Veterans of Valor program.

“It’s ‘game on’ with The American Legion family,” said South, watching Texas Legion volunteers interacting with wounded Marines and soldiers. “I am amazed at the turnout of Texas Legionnaires on such short notice. Legionnaires want to do something. It’s what the Legion is all about.”

South said he’s also grateful that members from his own Legion home – Post 252 in Greenwood, Ind., along with two other Indiana posts in Carmel and Speedway – donated money and materials.
To learn more about the program, visit www.veteransofvalor.org.

Marine Corps vet encourages wounded warriors

2009-11-18T11:59:00.001-08:00

Marine Corps vet encourages wounded warriors

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President Obama visits with Legion National Commander David K. Rehbein

2009-08-04T11:01:00.000-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

VA healthcare will not be endangered by national system, says President Obama

Promise made during private meeting with National Commander of The American Legion

WASHINGTON (Aug. 4, 2009) – President Obama, meeting privately with the leader of nation’s largest veterans service organization this morning, pledged to keep the medical care system administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs essentially as is – quelling fears that VA healthcare would be absorbed into a national health care system.
“(I) got his very strong assurance the VA as our veterans know it will continue to exist,” said National Commander David K. Rehbein. “It will not be diluted or folded into some sort of national system and that the folks who go to the VA…that will be considered their insurance, so any insurance requirements (will be met) simply by being enrolled in the VA.”
Another topic discussed during the one-on-one meeting in the Oval Office was Medicare reimbursement to the VA, a proposal long championed by The American Legion. This proposed practice would require Medicare to pay for care provided at Department VA medical facilities to Medicare beneficiaries – that is, eligible veterans over the age of 65 with non-service related injuries, illnesses and conditions. Currently, Medicare is precluded by statute from doing this.
“Medicare reimbursement to VA would be a boon to veterans in that it would encourage them to take advantage of what we consider the best care anywhere,” said Rehbein. It would also generate much-needed revenue for the VA.” The “Medicare VA Reimbursement Act of 2009” resulted from a discussion Rehbein had with House Veterans Affairs Committee Chairman Bob Filner (D-CA) at the Legion’s DC headquarters just three weeks ago. “I am pleased that Chairman Filner visited with us and then took prompt action,” Rehbein said.
Obama and Rehbein also discussed the positive effects that the enhanced educational benefits contained within the newly enacted and American Legion-pioneered Post 9/11 GI Bill will have on the veterans community and the nation as a whole.
The vexing problem of a dramatically growing backlog of VA benefits claims was also considered by the two. Rehbein said he feels the president “fully appreciates” its gravity and will do what he can to aid in its solution.
Rehbein, obviously pleased with the meeting’s outcome, characterized the 25-minute White House chat as “very friendly…conversational in style” in which “issues were discussed rather than positions being presented.”
With a current membership of 2.5 million wartime veterans, The American Legion was founded in 1919 on the four pillars of a strong national security, veterans affairs, Americanism, and the mentoring of youth. Legionnaires work for the betterment of their communities through more than 14,000 posts across the nation.
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Media contacts: Craig Roberts, (202) 263-2982, Cell (202) 406-088 or Joe March, (317) 630-1253; Cell (317) 748-1926. A high resolution photo of Nat. Cmdr. Rehbein is available at www.legion.org.

Why be an American Legion Rider?

2009-07-27T11:58:00.000-07:00

I wrote this a few years ago and the friend mentioned at the end was my good friend Greg "EBay" Hansen. He was a good deal responsible for me becoming a Legion Rider and being as active as I have been. This is still how I feel today and I have no better way of expressing what being an American Legion Rider is to me.

After reading this, please share your comments on Why and What the Legion Riders is to you.

Thanks,

Don "Bulldog" Behrens
Kansas American Legion Riders
Area Director

Lately while searching for more ways to entice more members into being more active, I decided to list why I had become An American Legion Rider.I had already been involved with the American Legion as both Legion and S.A.L., Charity Golf and Bowling Tournaments. I rarely even walked into the Post. Now I walk into several Posts and known on site.

I was already a member of the Patriot Guard, but I saw something while attending Missions and Homecomings that drew me into it. I saw something that I had not seen since my active duty service, most particularly during my time in Vietnam. The Camaraderie from that time period, I saw between Legion Riders. What was most amazing, it was not only shared between Vietnam Vets, it was shared between everyone in the Riders, SAL and Aux alike. I have never seen this ever before. I was drawn to it and wanted to be a part of it. I have not seen this sharing between the Regular Legion, SAL, and Aux, only in the Legion Riders and those that become involved with Us.

Being An American Legion Rider is very Special to Me and everyday becomes more so. It has shown me programs within the Legion that I didn't have a clue existed. Those programs must continue and being First and Foremost a Legionnaire (Something that came to me after becoming involved) it will take my generation and the following generations to do it. Another thing that the Legion Riders has been able to do, is to bridge the generation gap and bring several generations together to work together.

This was originally was only for myself, but after speaking with a Friend, he wanted to see it, so I thought I would share it. We have something very Special in the Kansas American Legion Riders, that even other States haven't seen as yet. I hope that it will continue to blossom.

Thank All of You for Sharing With Me,

Don "Bulldog" Behrens

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

2009-07-23T05:43:00.000-07:00

Military and veterans health care should not be part of any national health care bill, says The American Legion

WASHINGTON (July 22, 2009) – The national commander of the nation’s largest veterans service organization has reacted to tonight’s urgent call by President Barack Obama for national health care reform.

“While The American Legion appreciates the complexity of the healthcare reform challenge facing the President and Congress,” said David K. Rehbein, “on behalf of our nation's 26-million veterans and the nearly two million personnel now on active duty in more than 130 countries, we urge Congress to ensure that veterans’ and military health care not be part of any national health care bill. They should be exempt in the legislation.”

Rehbein added, “Our nation must maintain its long standing tradition that veterans’ and military health care systems will remain independent and focused on our most deserving citizens.

“The American Legion has a proud tradition of securing and preserving the earned benefits of America’s veterans,” Rehbein said. “Ensuring timely access to quality healthcare for today’s military and veterans is of paramount concern. These are the citizens who have borne our battles in previous wars as they still are in Iraq and Afghanistan. They have earned our care the hard way. We, as a nation, have an obligation to ensure that their healthcare is not compromised,” he concluded.

With a current membership of 2.5 million wartime veterans, The American Legion was founded in 1919 on the four pillars of a strong national security, veterans affairs, Americanism, and the mentoring of youth. Legionnaires work for the betterment of their communities through more than 14,000 posts across the nation.
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Media contacts: Craig Roberts, (202) 263-2982, Cell (202) 406-0887 or Joe March, (317) 630-1253; Cell (317) 748-1926. A high resolution photo of Nat. Cmdr. Rehbein is available at www.legion.org.

Progressive Insurance supports the Legacy Run

2009-07-16T09:17:00.000-07:00

Our thanks to the men and women at Progressive Insurance, our newest American Legion Legacy Run supporters.

Here's your pop quiz of the day, and it's not an easy one:

"What is the make of motorcycle featured at the top of the page of the Progress Motorycle Insurance website www.motorcycle.progressive.com?"

First THREE correct answers emailed to legionriders@legion.org (AWACS) gets a free 2006 original-issue American Legion Legacy Run patch. Don't forget to include your mailing address.

ALR in IRAQ

2009-07-14T09:02:00.000-07:00

I have attached a picture of SFC Andy Swenson stationed in Iraq who also is a member of American Legion Riders Post 298, Battle Creek, MI. Although Andy could not attend our events he keeps the mission of the Riders in his actions in Iraq. Andy is missed very much by his fellow Riders, including his wife Jen Swenson. Jen is prior Army herself and has been in charge of the home front while Andy is away. He will return home sometime later this summer for a short leave then it's back to business.

Tom Starkweather, Director
American Legion Riders
Post 298 Battle Creek, MI

Legion Riders raise $21,000 for Kids Cancer Camp

2009-07-06T08:21:00.000-07:00

Alabama Legion Riders raise $21,000
American Legion Rider Chapter 107 in Leeds, Ala., donates the money to camp for children with cancer.

See more about Camp Smile-a-Mile on The American Legion Online Update at www.legion.org.

Air Force Red Horse Squadron Cooks for Legacy Run

2009-06-29T15:06:00.000-07:00

Members of the Silver Flag Training Site, Det 1, 823rd Red Horse Squadron, Tyndall AFB, cooked hamburgers and hot dogs for the recent Legion Riders Poker Run held at Post 356, Lynn Haven, FL, June 6th.

Members stood out in the heat and cooked all day and raised $447.00. They wrote a check to the Legacy Run that day and it will be delivered to the National Commander by Mike and Tina Kirchoff during the Legacy Run.

Thanks to all the members for their hard work and dedication!

2009-06-08T12:10:00.001-07:00

I received quite a bit of responses from my original message regarding “another Veterans Corps”…

Thank you all for caring.

From many of the responses, there are valid arguments made for and against this new “Veterans Corps”.

On the one hand, this new initiative, if properly supported by existing VSOs, can help launch an awareness program to returning veterans and introduce them to the traditions of “veterans serving veterans”. This will help increase awareness for VSOs like The American Legion amongst younger veterans and get them involved. And with some mentoring from older veterans, we can expect these young veterans who get involved in the “Veterans Corps” eventually volunteer their time with the VSOs and continue to make an impact. As one legionnaire wrote “If the new Veterans Corps is to strengthen and enable organizations to build capacity for their own missions to assist fellow veterans, then there is a chance this new initiative will actually accomplish something.”

On the other hand, if improperly executed, this program risks wasting taxpayer money and further disenfranchise veterans who are already doing everything they can.

Your collective wisdom has enlightened me in the fact that given this initiative, we can either be counter-productive and argue who can provide the best assistance to our veterans, or we can see this opportunity and work together to help mentor a generation of returning veterans the importance of peer-support and volunteer services to strengthen their communities.

And keeping true to the grassroots, I urge you to find out more about this Veterans Corps and ask your American Legion representatives, and your congressional representatives, to ensure VSOs critical role in developing the “Veterans Corps”.

another Veterans Corps???

2009-06-08T09:23:00.001-07:00

Congress is trying to establish a new “Veterans Corps” under the established programs of AmeriCorps. (http://hamptonroads.com/2009/03/worthy-AmeriCorps-program-benefit-veterans) The provisions introduced to both the House and Senate asked that the taxpayers to put more money into a bureaucracy and establish a program from the ground up to do the job that so many Veterans Service Organizations are already doing. From what I can tell, this new initiative will give AmeriCorps the funding it needs to establish transition assistance volunteers to help veterans.
Now correct me if I’m wrong, but I’ve always thought the point of VSOs, like The American Legion, are chartered by Congress to organize volunteer efforts, manage donations, and bypassing the government bureaucracy, and putting the efforts and initiatives at the hands of veterans who understand how to help another veteran. Maintaining true grassroots and empowering fellow veterans to serve their peers not only ensure the quality but also the bond that ties a veteran to his/her community. Why do we want to waste more taxpayer’s money to build something that is already there???
So why is the Obama administration looking in another direction on helping our veterans??? Can it be simply that Obama, or Congress, didn’t really think this through? Are they just jumping into the bandwagon to simply do something for the sake of doing something???
If it were up to me, I’d say instead of building another veterans’ service organization under AmeriCorps, Congress and Obama should look at what all of the VSOs are doing, and help build partnership across the board and help facilitate peer support to reduce the redundancy and maximize support to those returning veterans that need the help…
I think this is a case where politics and the appearance of doing something needs to take a backseat. Acting with reason and operating with the best interests of our veterans and servicemembers should be our first responsibility. Congress can really make a difference by coming to the VSOs and ask for an alliance or some sort to establish this “Veterans Corps”… but that’s just my opinion…

Troops wished Godspeed on mission

2009-04-23T09:20:00.000-07:00

By Jared Felkins
The Times-Journal
Fort Payne, Alabama
Published April 21, 2009

Friends, family and Fort Payne faithful wished the soldiers of the 1343rd Chemical Co. godspeed Tuesday as they left in buses headed to Texas and eventually Kuwait.

“We don’t say, ‘We support the troops, but…’” said Randy Owen, who sang the National Anthem before the deployment ceremony Tuesday at the Fort Payne Armory. “We say, ‘We support the troops and their families.’ If you need anything, we are there for you.”

A large crowd of friends, family and local, state and national officials gathered as about 130 troops were lined in attention to witness the morning ceremony.

“As each of you plan to deploy to Kuwait, it’s an honor to be with you to recognize your contributions,” said Congressman Robert Aderholt. “Protecting our country is something we take very seriously in Congress. You are what makes this nation great, and we will never forget that.”

The troops took a tour of Fort Payne on buses before entering Interstate 59. In Gadsden, the troops met up with about 95 other soldiers also deploying on Tuesday. From there, the National Guard soldiers head to Fort Hood in Killeen, Texas before heading to the Kuwait boarder with Iraq in mid-July. The troops will offer security to convoys while deployed.

“We have the best leaders and the best soldiers in the Alabama National Guard standing before you today,” said Battalion Cmdr. Alan Nayhem. “But the real heroes are the family members.”

Many speakers, soldiers and officials, stressed community support for family members who wished their loved ones goodbye and godspeed.

“I’d like to tell you how proud I am of this group of soldiers,” said Capt Jess Howard. “The next year will be tough on you, but remember it is only a year. To the family members, be your soldiers’ rock of support.”

Fort Payne Mayor Bill Jordan told the soldiers and their families he understood the personal sacrifices each one was making.

“We salute you and wish you the best of luck,” Jordan said.

The American Legion Riders, directed by former company member Randy Ray, led the soldiers to Birmingham on motorcycles.

“All of these who have worn these colors have been there,” Ray said. “We want to support them. We want to give them a send off.”

Between the ceremony and time when troops boarded buses, they had a few hours to say goodbye to family and friends.

“God willing in 11-12 months from now we will be standing right back here in Fort Payne, Alabama,” said Maj. Gen. A.C. Blalock.

American Legion Legacy Run Registration--2009

2009-03-19T11:24:00.000-07:00

Indianapolis to Louisville - Aug 18-21

Fee Schedule:
Registration fees postmarked before 1 August 2009: $35 per operator, and $15 per passenger.
Registrations postmarked after 1 August 2009: $50 for each participant (operators and passengers). *
Supporters: $35 at any time (not for operators or passengers)
Volunteers: Registration is free to all volunteers and can be accomplished by mail here or onsite before the Legacy Run stops and refueling points.
CLICK HERE FOR THE 2009 REGISTRATION FORM

Register early by printing out the completed registration form and mailing (with payment by check, money order, or credit card information) payable to:

The American Legion Legacy Run
PO Box 1055
Indianapolis, IN 46206

We will mail the ALLR 2009 patch set and mapbook to all rider/operators, passengers, and supporters approximately two weeks prior to the Run.

Volunteers are required to sign a registration/waiver form, but are not charged a registration fee. They will not receive a patch set or mapbook. Volunteers who register and pay as a supporter ($35) will be mailed the patch set and mapbook.

*NOTE: The American Legion Legacy Run, like all public highway motorcycle events, must first consider the safety of all riders, passengers, spectators, and volunteers. For this reason, run safety planners may find it necessary to place an upper limit to the numbers of new participants joining on any day or leg of the Run. Late registrations also create a difficult challenge for local American Legion posts and Riders chapters attempting to purchase food and beverages to support the Run. For these reasons, a guaranteed position cannot be promised after 1 August 2009. Save money and help us create an accurate headcount before the Run begins—register early!

Rolling Thunder California To Visit Nat'l HQ On Way to DC

2009-03-19T08:24:00.000-07:00

Awacs, we are riding from California to DC for attending Memorial Day Programs. I have just completed the route and stops along the way and am hoping that we might visit Nat HQ on Wed May 20th. Please feel free to contact me about any of this.
Could you place me in contact with any Legion Post along our way so that we can visit and share our trip.
All riders and vehicles are welcome to join us at any point.

Thank You,
Joseph "Harleyjoe" Watt, Post 149 Commander of Escondido, Ca.

--We will be proud to host you, Harleyjoe. This building belongs to you. Let me know how many a week or so before you arrive. --AWACS

Blog Site for Marine walking a perimeter . . .

2009-03-10T10:30:00.000-07:00

http://eddiegraywalksamerica.blogspot.com/

Riders, check out this young Marine. This is a blog that we set up to track his progress. Some of the ALR chapters in the perimeter states in the U.S. might vote to keep track of him--and provide support if needed in some of the outlying areas.

He asks for nothing in return but respect.

AWACS

2009 American Legion Legacy Run Announced

2009-02-27T11:12:00.000-08:00

The American Legion Legacy Run will roll again August 18-23, 2009. Join us as we roll through Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, and Kentucky on a 4-day, 1,000-mile ride for the children of our fallen comrades.

Registration is now open at www.legion.org. Click on "Legion Programs"

Legion Riders Escort National Commander through Georgia

2009-02-26T11:43:00.000-08:00

On Friday, January 30th, a large group of Legion Riders from Georgia, Florida, and South Carolina escorted National Commander Rehbein through Georgia on his visit to that great state.

'Sarge' out of Augusta welcomes Mike 'Patches' Kirchoff in Albany, GA. 'Papa Joe' and his crew rode out of Valdosta, and others joined to re-create the Legion Rider escort that usually happens in August.

'Flamingo Tina' and 'Patches' Kirchoff rode up from Panama City, FL for the mini-reunion of American Legion Legacy riders. It was an honor to ride in support of Commander David Rehbein and Department of Georgia Commander Fae Casper.

Many of us are already planning our annual pilgrimage to Indianapolis to participate in the upcoming American Legion Legacy Run. We are planning fund raisers and getting donations so we do not show up empty handed!

The American Legion Legacy Run --2009

2009-02-10T11:53:00.001-08:00

The fourth annual American Legion Legacy Run motorcycle tour is scheduled for Aug. 18-23, starting in Indianapolis and ending in Louisville, Ky., site of the Legion’s 91st National Convention. The Legacy Run raises money for academic scholarships awarded to children of servicemembers killed in the war on terror.
For the first time, the Legacy Run will head east, moving from Indiana into Ohio, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, and into Kentucky, arriving Aug. 21 in Louisville (final route planning is under way). After completing a 1,200-mile trip, riders will take part in various Legion activities before leading the national convention’s parade Aug. 23.
Online registration opens March 15 on the Legion’s national Web site (www.legion.org). Participants should consider travel times to and from Indianapolis and Louisville as they mark their calendars. The preliminary travel plan is:

• The American Legion Legacy Run will assemble on Monday, Aug. 17, at Indiana’s Wayne Post 64, 601 S. Holt Rd, Indianapolis.
• Riders will depart Post 64 early on Tuesday, Aug. 18, and move east along Interstate 70 on the first leg of the journey.
• The Legacy Run finishes at the end of the parade route in Louisville. Riders may wish to stay there for the convention, Aug. 23-27. Legion posts in northern Kentucky and southern Indiana have also offered to host events and tours for visiting Legacy Run participants.

Registration opens online on March 15, 2009, at www.legion.org.

For additional information, visit www.legion.org (click on Legion Programs) or contact Bill Sloan, assistant director, Membership and Internal Affairs, at wsloan@legion.org.

National Commander Special ALR Representatives Named

2009-02-02T13:05:00.000-08:00

The American Legion has announced the appointments of Bill Kaledas (MI), and Terry Woodburn (IL), as National Commander Liaisons to The American Legion’s Internal Affairs Commission. Both experienced riders, Kaledas (Michigan Post/Chapter 396) and Woodburn (Illinois Post/Chapter 624) also have extensive leadership experience with mainstream American Legion and American Legion Rider activities.

Kaledas has served as a post commander and post adjutant. A member of American Legion Post 396 in Garden City, Michigan, he was one of the original founders of The American Legion Riders and served as the commander of Post 396 during the time the first American Legion Riders chapter was formed in 1993. He was instrumental in helping to build the Riders nationally. Kaledas has also served as mayor of Garden City, Michigan, during his nearly 30 years of American Legion membership.

Woodburn has also served as a post commander and post adjutant. He worked at the Legion state headquarters in Bloomington from 1981 through March of 1983, and then the next 16 years in Indianapolis working at the National Headquarters of the American Legion in the Americanism and Children & Youth Division. Woodburn assumed the duties of Department Adjutant of The American Legion of Illinois as of January 1st, 2000. He is a 37-year member of The American Legion and a veteran of the U.S. Army from 1966 through 1972. He has been a motorcycle rider since 1967, and the State President of the Illinois Legion Riders for five years.

Both Kaledas and Woodburn have served since 2007 on the National Legion Riders Oversight Board.

"I am pleased to welcome Bill and Terry as the first special American Legion Rider National Liaisons to our commission," said Larry J. Besson, the chairman of The American Legion’s National Internal Affairs Commission. “They will bring extensive knowledge of The American Legion Rider's structure, history, unique challenges, and vision to the national headquarters, as well as outstanding expertise and demonstrated personal leadership."

Kaledas and Woodburn will represent The American Legion Rider community for all matters referred to the Internal Affairs Commission regarding The American Legion Riders. The Commission or one of its subcommittees will study and make recommendations to the National Executive Committee or The National Convention delegates on resolutions submitted from the various departments on any matter related to The American Legion Riders.

“Now the American Legion Riders have a strong voice at the table,” added John W. Querfeld, Director, Internal Affairs. “With the growth of The American Legion Riders to nearly 1,000 chapters worldwide, it was appropriate to bring two long-time riders as consultants to the national level of the Legion.”

For additional information contact Bill Sloan, Assistant Director, Membership and Internal Affairs, at wsloan@legion.org.

ALR Members with Motorcycle Skills Training Experience?

2008-12-29T13:06:00.001-08:00

Skill needed!

The National Headquarters of The American Legion is preparing a database of American Legion Riders nationally with motorcycle skills training experience as an instructor or mentor. If you are an American Legion Rider, and have experience as a motorcycle riding skills trainer or instructor, please email or mail your contact information and details to me here in Indianapolis.

Thank you.

Bill Sloan
PO Box 1055
Indianapolis, Indiana 46206
wsloan@legion.org

The American Legion and the GI Bill

2008-12-23T09:43:00.001-08:00

SURVEY

2008-12-09T06:15:00.001-08:00

If you have a second, please take this survey... it's a communication audit conducted by the national headuqarters...

thank you

CLICK HERE

2008-11-17T10:57:00.001-08:00

The American Legion launches VetCam, a free one-on-one video conferencing – to enable you to talk face-to-face with friends and family across town or overseas; one-on-one; or with several people at a time.
Members of The American Legion, as well as members of the United States Armed Forces (active duty, Reserve and National Guard), their families and friends, are welcome to use this complimentary technology to remain connected with those people most important to you.
Visit http://vetcam.ncbintl.com/ for more information.

Who Are We?

2008-07-31T17:06:00.000-07:00

Bill Kirby said...

Exactly what are the "American Legion Riders" What qualifications do I need in order to become one? Bill Kirby

July 30, 2008 2:54 PM

Anyone want to answer this great question? I've placed Bill Kirby's question on top for everyone to respond to--let's clarify our purpose, our goals, and our identity. Click on "comments" below to see all of our answers--AWACS

The American Legion on myspace.com

2008-07-21T07:09:00.000-07:00

http://www.myspace.com/the_american_legion

bill,

take a look at the myspace page.. I featured Legacy run 2008 video on the page… can you put it out to the legion riders that if they have a myspace page, then please add TAL national hq as their friend…

I know there is a lot of legion riders on myspace, we need them to get some momentum behind this thing…

Thanks…

jin

ALR Three Servicemen Ride

2008-07-17T19:12:00.000-07:00

On July 12, 2008, 30 American Legion Riders from Chapter 356 in Panama City, Florida joined up with over a 100 motorcycles of local motorcycle clubs, including ABATE, AMVETS Riders, Christian Motorcyclists Association, Patriot Guard Riders, U.S. Military Vets Motorcycle Club and Vietnam Vets/Legacy Vets Motorcycle Club and rode to Apalachicola, Florida for the dedication of the Three Servicemen Statue, a bronze sculpture that is the only authorized “detail,” or partial sculpture, created from the original molds used for the Three Servicemen Statue in Washington DC.Jan C. Scruggs, founder and president of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund, was the keynote speaker. Scruggs was the driving force behind the effort to build the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. in the early 1980s. The Wall, as the Memorial is also known, was dedicated in 1982.The ceremony also featured an exhibition of Vietnam-era “Huey” helicopters, a wreath laying at the new statue and a military honor guard.

News from Patches Kirchoff Panama City, Florida

How can we not assist?

2008-07-14T12:27:00.000-07:00

I'd like to ask that you post this invitation to the American Legion Riders. This summer, I will be riding about 6,000 miles for the children of fallen Spec Ops Warriors from all branches of the military. The Special Operations Warrior Foundation has now been sending children of fallen warriors to college for 28 years. The foundation was started as a pact made in the desert after 17 children were left without a father after the Iranian hostage rescue attempt. On Memorial Day of 2005, I got the news that a small Iraqi aircraft had gone down with my son aboard. My grandson is now one of the current number of 727 children that will receive a full college scholorship from the foundation when he is ready. Our ride schedule is on my link below. We would be happy to have American Legion Riders join us on any portion of our trip. Along the ride we will be stopping for different planned events and to collect donations made out to the SOWF to be mailed from that city. My sincere thanks go out to any Legion members that can join us or to help spread the word. Debbiewww.firstgiving.com/debbieargel Debbie Argel-BastianFor the children of our heroes: (Capt. Argel Memorial Ride) www.firstgiving.com/DebbieArgel

Legionriders.ning.com, another new site for ALR

2008-07-14T08:24:00.000-07:00

Another site to add for all Legion Riders is http://legionriders.ning.com/ . Keith Callaway of Iowa created this site to provide Legion Riders their own social networking site similar to “Myspace”. So far there are 171 members signed up. Please check it out.

Announcing The American Legion Riders Forum

2008-07-10T14:59:00.000-07:00

Welcome to The American Legion Riders (ALR) blog site and discussion forum. Many of the American Legion Riders and Legion family volunteers interested in learning more about the ALR should visit this site often--it is interactive and safe, and will allow you to share your comments with other visitors to the forum.

The forum welcomes open discussion. Give us your thoughts. Share your stories.

Bill Sloan
Moderator

Alabama Riders Chapter 107 Ride against children's cancer

2008-07-09T07:47:00.000-07:00

The American Legion Riders, Chapter 107 Leeds, Al. Supports Camp Smile-A-Mile
Camp Smile-A-Mile is Alabama’s program for children with cancer. Children who have cancer, their families as well as young adult survivors can attend this camp. Even children that are still taking chemotherapy can attend because they are able to receive their treatment at camp. Everyone attends free of charge. That’s why it’s so important to have fund raisers, such as the annual Camp Sam Motorcycle Ride, which we attend.This year’s ride was on Saturday, June 14. The day started out dismal and rainy and I knew that it would keep a lot of bikers away, but it didn't deter our riders. We knew, rain or shine, the campers were expecting us. The ride started at Barbers Motor Sports Park in Leeds, Al. We had a full police escort from the Jefferson County Sheriffs Department Motorcycle Unit. Although in years past there were hundreds of bikes, this year only about 50-60 bikes participated in the ride.The campers were waiting as we rode into camp. As the horns began to blow and the exhaust pipes roared to their delight, they started cheering. Eighty-one beautiful, bald, sick, and healthy children were waving banners that read “thank you bikers”. Dry eyes were scarce, as emotions flooded everyone. As we greeted the long line of campers, they gave us “high fives” as we passed out monkeys, which is Camp Sam’s mascot.We formed a huge circle and our chaplain, Terry, said a prayer. Then bikers and campers paired up to have lunch together. They enjoyed sharing their stories, dreams and were not a bit shy about telling you what their diagnosis is. Such big words’ coming from such small children is heart-wrenching. Although, I have to admit, I didn't meet one child that wasn't optimistic and they all seemed to be having the time of their lives. Of course, that’s what camp is all about.This was a very emotional time because some of the campers were neighbors and friends of our riders. Sassy, one of our riders, was tickled that she saw her “lunch buddy” from last years ride and that he remembered her. One the other hand, Lee and I didn't see ours and I was afraid to ask why she wasn't there. Many campers come back year after year, but unfortunately, some don't survive their illness to come back.After lunch most of the children headed to the bikes. As you can imagine, they had to try on gloves, helmets, hop on the bikes and rev the engines. (and rev and rev) Finally, we all gathered at the open air stage for the check presentation. The total donations for this day were $30,000.00. I am very proud to say that our riders raised $9612.00 of this total.Although Chapter 107 contributes to many different charities at the community, state and national level, we have made this our primary charity. I'd like to think that I was instrumental in this decision. You see, Camp Sam holds a special place in my heart. In 2000, my son was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. My family and I attended this camp for 6 years. This is a wonderful organization and they took care of us when I had absolutely nothing to give in return. Now it’s my turn to take care of them.Before my son got sick, I had never heard of Camp Smile- A-Mile. Fortunately, thanks to this article, you have. Don't wait until it’s your friend, your neighbor or, God forbid, your own child that gets sick. Donate now. You don't have to take my word for it. Visit their web site, www.campsam.org, and see all the fantastic things that they do.