Video of the McVey family

Riders Raise $21,000 for Cancer Kids

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

See the article in The American Legion Online Update at www.legion.org.

Red Horse Squadron Cooks for Legacy Run

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!

American Legion Legacy Run GATHER AGENDA

Agenda
The American Legion 4th Annual
Legacy Run Kick-Off Event
American Legion Post 64
August 16-17, 2009


Monday, August 17, 2009


10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Doors Open, Post 64 - Registration for Legacy Run Participants

11:00 a.m. Emblem Sales Opens

4:30 p.m. All Riders Brief:
Marty Justis, Executive Director
Billy Johnson, Legacy Run Coordinator
Dick Woods, TAL Legacy Run, Chief Road
Captain
Bill Sloan, Legacy Run Coordinator

5:00 – 5:05 p.m. Opening: Salute Colors, Pledge of Allegiance and Invocation
Billy Johnson, Legacy Run Coordinator
Reverend Ron Moore, Legacy Run Chaplain

5:10 – 5:20 p.m. Introduction/Remarks from Guests
National Commander – David Rehbein
Indiana Department Adjutant – Steve Short
Megan Smith

5:20 – 5:45 p.m. Legacy Run Contributions:
Dave Rehbein, National Commander
Marty Justis, Executive Director

5:45 – 7:30 p.m. Dinner, Post 64, for Legacy Run Participants and Guests

Tuesday, August 18, 2009

5:15 – 6:00 a.m. Breakfast Post 64
.

6:00 a.m. Posse Up/Rider Check -in

6:15 a.m. Road Captain, Assistant Road Captain (ARCs) and Tail Gunner (TGs) Meetings
Dick Woods, Chief Road Captain

Note: Immediately following this meeting ARCs and TGs will move out to begin lining up flights in order of departure. They will not attend All Riders Briefing.

6:30 a.m. All Riders Safety Briefing:
Dick Woods, Chief Road Captain

6:45 a.m. Prayer:
Reverend Ron Moore, The American Legion
Run Chaplain

7:00 a.m. Kick Stands UP!!!


LET’S ROLL. SAFETY ON THIS RIDE IS EVERYONE’S RESPONSIBILITY. DON’T LET ANYONE TWIST YOUR THROTTLE!!!

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???

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…

Oklahoma Riders looking for group to Indianapolis

Sir,

I am a member of the Oklahoma Legion Chapter and wondering if there was a Legacy Run planned from our area or even a corresponding state (Texas, Kansas, Arkansas)?

Thank you
Edward

Bad Bob and his kilt! A right tartar, he is!

Gooooood Morning to all my comrades, friends and fellow riders. I live in Blytheville, Ar and will be departing for my third Legacy Run on or about 15 Aug. I'll be heading up I-55,I-57,I-70 to Indy. Anyone wishing to join up and ride together please contact me at vnvmcbadbob@aol.com. I ride the red, white and blue Heritage with the American Flag and POW-MIA flag. I will probably wear my kilt along the way. My baby brother will tag along in a chase vehicle this year with a trailer. For anyone that hasn't made one of these, by all means, make it!. It's a great cause we all believe in and a world of fun. Especially with that crazy bunch from Converse, TX. (Where in the world is Converse?) My cell number is 870-740-6038.
Me lub you long time,
Bad Bob

Hi Bill Sloan!!!

Legacy Runs fro OK/TX/KS?

Anonymous said...
Are there any Legacy Runs from Oklahoma/Texas/Kansas area going to Louisville?
Love to know about it.

May 28, 2009 8:56:00 AM EDT

Legacy Run FROM FLORIDA!

AWACS,

We plan to depart Jacksonville Florida, Clarence Hill’s home post Wednesday, August 19th , Stop in Charlotte, NC, depart Charlotte August 20th arrive Charleston, WV (meet the Legacy Ride) Depart August 21st arrive Louisville, Ky (spend the weekend) Depart Monday August 24th arrive Chattanooga, Tn, Depart 25th Chattooga and head for Florida. We have a local Post hosting us in NC and TN, anyone interested please contact Mike Amig at 904-742-0841 or amig@hipkllc.com for details.

Mike Amig

ALR Florida

904.742.0841 (c)
amig@hipkllc.com

NEW LEGACY RUN ROUTE TO INDIANAPOLIS

Bill,
IAW the last newsletter, I am sending you and the team an update on how our group (ALR Southern Virginia Chapter) is getting to Indy. Anyone who wants to join along the way is welcome.
15 Aug- Depart Midlothian, VA at 0800. Ride Route 60 all the way across Virginia and most of the way across West Virginia, until we reach Charleston. Take I77 north to Parkersburg, WV for overnight and to meet any riders coming from northern Virginia.
16 Aug- start out on route 50 across Ohio, switch to route 35 at Chillicoate, then take that all the way to I70 west. We'll take I70 into Indianapolis.
These are great roads, and the Interstate riding is kept to a minimum. We had a blast riding this route last year, and the overnight in Parkersburg was a lot of fun, as well. Anyone wishing to contact me regarding a linkup, or finding the Econlodge in Parkersburg, please feel free to email me at hdpatches@hotmail.com.

JIMBO "PATCHES" ALTHOUSE
ALRSV
Post 284
Colonial Heights, VA 23834

Motorcycle Endorsements a must!

For safety reasons, the American Legion Legacy Run registration staff will check for proper motorcycle endorsements on participants operators' licenses before issuing the Legacy Run bracelets on registration day, August 17, at Post 64. Don't be caught short! Make sure your license has the proper motorcycle endorsement (if required by your state) before traveling to Indianapolis.

(While you're at it, make sure your license isn't expired, either!)

Indiana's motorcycle endorsement, for example, is an "M" typed front and back on the state driver's license showing successful completion of a motorcycle skills test or course. Other state's requirements and documentation may differ.

As a reminder, every participant is required to be legally licensed and in compliance with all state motorcycle operation and insurance requirements in their home states.

Registration total now up to 160 machines and 30 passengers as of today (Apr 28, 2009). I'm adding more lodging in every city. Will announce rooms here and on www.twitter.com/legacyrun.

AWACS

Troops wished Godspeed on mission

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.

2009 Legacy Run Lodging Information

The American Legion Legacy Run planners have negotiated favorable room rates with the following properties at each nightly stop. To reserve your rooms, have a major credit card ready and ask for Legacy Run room rates on the dates indicated. Rooms reserved after the cutoff dates shown above may be available at higher price.

Sunday, Aug. 16 - Monday, Aug. 17, 2009:

La Quinta Inn (Legacy Run Hdqrs Hotel)
Indianapolis Airport 5316 West Southern Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46241
Ph: (317) 247-4281
Fax: 317.247.0576
Room Rate: $63.75+tax (rate valid until Aug. 7, 2009)

Tuesday, Aug. 18, 2009:

McLure Hotel (Legacy Run Headquarters Hotel)
1200 Market St., Wheeling, WV 26003
Phone: (304) 232-0300
Room Rate $74.00+tax (until Aug. 4, 2009)

Wednesday, Aug. 19, 2009:

Cool Harbor Motel (Legacy Run Hdqrs Hotel)
141 W. 15th St., Front Royal, VA 22630
Phone (540) 635-2191
Room Rate $69.00+tax (rate valid until July 21, 2009)
Relax Inn Motel
1801 Shenandoah Ave., Front Royal, VA 22630
Phone (540) 635-4101
Room Rate $60.50+tax (until July 28, 2009)

Thursday, Aug. 20, 2009:

Ramada Plaza (Legacy Run Hdqrs Hotel)
400 Second Ave., Charleston, WV 25303
Phone (304) 744-4641
Room Rate $79.00+tax (until Aug. 6, 2009)
Wingate Hotel
400 Second Ave., Charleston, WV 25303
Phone (304) 744-4444
Room Rate $89.00+tax (until Aug. 7, 2009)

Friday, Aug. 21 - Sunday, Aug. 23, 2009:

Holiday Inn (Legacy Run Headquarters Hotel)
1325 S. Hurstbourne Parkway, Louisville, KY 40222
Phone (502) 426-2600
Room Rate $69.90+tax (until Aug. 1, 2009)

For more information contact Scott Miller, smiller@legion.org, or Bill Sloan, wsloan@legion.org, or call 317-630-1321.

Alternative routes to Louisville?

Just happened to stumble upon this blog. I am the State Director for Missouri. This is an excellent alternative to the Eastern Route and we may like to join you in your ride to Nashville. Sorry to hear about Stoney. I would appreciate an email or point of contact for this ride.

Thank you...
Norm Gentry
npgentry@swbell.net