Legion Riders
ALR Commander - Greg Kohfeldt Email: ALRCommander@fwrobbinspost194.org
Today over 425 American Legion Riders programs, organized by chapters, districts, or departments, support Americanism and Children and Youth programs in virtually every state in the nation, and more are organizing each month. One of the fastest growing and most highly visible of the many programs offered by The American Legion, The American Legion Riders are a very diverse group, and so are the programs that they support. What do American Legion Riders do? The activities are far too many to mention in this space, but here are a few examples:
American Legion Riders chapters and districts, nationally have become some of the most generous donors for the American Legacy Scholarship Fund, raising as much as $5,000 or more in a single event.
Legion Riders participate in the annual POW/MIA Rally held each Memorial weekend in Washington D.C. known as "Rolling Thunder".
Legion Riders sponsor or participate in local and national charity events in support of the sponsoring American Legion Post.
Legion Riders ride to raise money for such organizations as local VA Hospitals, Battered Women and Children's Centers, Varied Children and Youth Programs, a School for Blind Children, Veterans Relief, Needy Families and many, many others.
Legion Riders founded a national movement called “Patriot Guard” that honors and protects the sanctity of military funerals and memorial services.
Legion Riders have formed special motorcycle Honor Guards and ceremonial teams highlighting the special bonds formed in military service and the motorcycling community.
Legion Riders have also begun to teach motorcycle and driver safety in the community and in schools in co-operation with ABATE and other national motorcycling organizations.
Remember: American Legion Riders are a very dedicated group of Legion Family members. When your Post or district sponsors a new Riders organization, you create a win/win situation for your Post, District, and Department!
For more information: www.legion.org/riders.
History of the American Legion Riders
The American Legion Riders were founded in 1993 in Garden City, Michigan, as a motorcycle enthusiasts group within the American Legion, aimed at supporting veterans and their communities.
Founding and Early Development
The American Legion Riders originated in 1993 when Chuck "Tramp" Dare and Bill "Polka" Kaledas, members of American Legion Post 396, proposed the idea of forming a motorcycle association within the American Legion. They envisioned a family-oriented group where Legionnaires, Auxiliary members, and Sons of the American Legion could come together to share their passion for motorcycling
After receiving approval from the Michigan Department Adjutant, they established the American Legion Riders as a program of the American Legion. The initial group consisted of 19 founding members, and they quickly gained popularity, leading to the formation of additional chapters across the country
Growth and Expansion
Since its inception, the American Legion Riders have grown significantly, with over 110,000 members in more than 2,000 chapters across the United States and in several foreign countries. The organization is dedicated to supporting veterans and their families through various charitable activities, including fundraising events and community service
Activities and Contributions
The American Legion Riders engage in numerous activities, such as:
- Charity Rides: Organizing motorcycle rides to raise funds for local VA hospitals, children’s programs, and other charitable organizations.
- Community Support: Participating in local parades, memorial ceremonies, and events to honor veterans and promote community goodwill
- The American Legion Legacy Run: An annual cross-country fundraising ride that supports scholarships for children of military personnel who have died since September 11, 2001
Additionally, the Riders have established initiatives like the Patriot Guard, which honors and protects the sanctity of military funerals and memorial services
Current Status
Today, the American Legion Riders continue to thrive as a vital part of the American Legion family, embodying the spirit of camaraderie and service. They remain committed to their original mission of supporting veterans and their communities while fostering a love for motorcycling among their members
In summary, the American Legion Riders have evolved from a small group of motorcycle enthusiasts into a significant organization dedicated to charitable work and community service, reflecting the values of the American Legion.