More than 106,000 American Legion Riders convene in more than 2,200 chapters, covering all domestic departments and at least three foreign countries.
These chapters of American Legion Riders are renowned for their philanthropic efforts. They have accompanied military units returning home from overseas deployments and have fundraised extensively, generating millions of dollars for children’s hospitals, schools, veterans’ homes, severely wounded service members, and scholarships.
The Riders receive support from Legion posts, Sons of The American Legion squadrons, American Legion Auxiliary units, departments, and private donations.
In Garden City, Michigan, in 1993, Chuck “Tramp”
Dare and Bill “Polka” Kaledas, commander of American Legion Post 396, started a motorcycle enthusiasts association within The American Legion organization.
The two longtime riders wanted an environment where Legion family members could come together to share a common love for motorcycles. They agreed to establish a central source for the Riders to ensure that chapters formed not as motorcycle clubs or gangs, but as Legionnaires, Auxiliary, and Sons of The American Legion.
In addition to community fundraising, the Riders focus on promoting motorcycle safety programs and providing a social atmosphere for American Legion family members.
True to the Legion’s grass roots tradition, each chapter manages the programs at the post level, where the best ideas are born. The Riders are a part of many programs and events, including:
Annual cross-country fundraising ride to the National Convention city.
Annual ride over Jacksonville’s seven bridges that concludes with a POW/MIA Ceremony at the National POW/MIA Memorial.
Annual, month-long statewide fundraiser for Children & Youth Programs.
Annual State Summit for Legion Riders featuring vendor expos, classes, and more.
Annual, month-long statewide fundraiser for PROJECT: VetRelief’s Suicide Prevention Initiative.
Statewide ride and fundraiser for PROJECT: VetRelief’s Suicide Prevention Initiative. Starts with a Meet & Greet event.
Closing celebration of the In-State Unity Ride.
The Florida Legion Riders participate in patriotic events and services throughout the year including the Rolling Thunder Ride for Freedom, honoring fallen military men and women. They also protect the sanctity of their funerals from those who mean to dishonor their memories.
The Florida American Legion Riders was formed to promote the aims and purposes of The American Legion as a family-oriented motorcycling activity for members of The American Legion, The American Legion Auxiliary, and The Sons of The American Legion.
1912 A Lee Road
Orlando, FL 32810
800.393.3378
Main 407.295.2631
Fax 407.299.0901
mail@floridalegion.org
Welcome to the New Legion Year!
Beverly and I would like to extend a warm welcome to all the new officers for the 2024-2025 term and express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who stepped up last year to support our program. Your dedication and hard work are deeply appreciated, and while there are too many names to list, please know that each contribution has made a significant impact. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to reach out. Remember, the only stupid question is the one that has not been asked.
Importance of Officer Reporting
One of our top priorities this year is to ensure that all officer contact information is reported and loaded into the ALR database. Accurate and up-to-date information is crucial for improving our communication and coordination.
Year-Over-Year Performance
Looking at our performance metrics, we have had an impressive year. While our membership and annual donations remained steady, we saw a remarkable increase in miles-ridden—from three million to 4.4 million. Well done, everyone! It is interesting to ponder how much of this increase can be attributed to capturing the plaque.
Event Feedback and Improvements
Our surveys this year showed positive feedback across all events. We are actively working to incorporate the changes you suggested. Notably, the Summit will see a few modifications, including additional Safety Classes supported by the Florida Safety Program. Stay tuned for more details on these updates.
In-State Planning and the Rally
Our initial In-State planning session has kicked off, and the Roadmasters are again stepping up to the challenge. They are swapping territories around, promising an interesting event. The Rally will be held at OCC, and we will be raffling off a bike again this year.
Growing and Delegating
With our growth into a professional riding organization, we are bringing on more committees to help us out. Delegating responsibilities to more individuals will ensure a smooth leadership transition in the future.
Thank you for your continued support and dedication. Here is to another successful year with the American Legion Riders!
Your 2024 – 2025 Schedule
If you have any ideas, please share!
Thank You for what you do, and we are proud to be part of your leadership team of such an excellent group!
“For the Cause, Not the Applause”
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