By Mike Craddy
As American Legion Riders, our main objective is helping other veterans & promoting the aims and purposes of The American Legion as a family-oriented, motorcycling activity for members of The American Legion, Auxiliary and Sons. We do this in various ways. Most notable is the Legacy Ride, which raises money for children of the Afghanistan and Iraq War Era veterans who have either lost their lives or who receive 50% or more disability. Last year $1.2 million dollars was raised and $86,000.00 alone was received by Connecticut Veteran families. Phenomenal!
ALR Chapter 101 started out in April 2014 with 10 charter members and minus $5 in the till. Since then, we have written and had our constitution and by-laws approved, nominated and elected officers, established a meeting place and time, and grown to over 30 members.
During the past 5 years, ALR Chapter 101 has enjoyed taking part in many events in support of our 4 pillars. In the first 2 years we have helped run the monthly flea market, rode in many parades (Four Town Fair, 4th of July, VJ etc.) and helped with various ceremonies, flags sales, and Post and Auxiliary dinners and fundraisers. At least one member of the Riders has been present for all Post organization activities since our charter inception. We also invite all to participate in scheduled Chapter activities such as our monthly impromptu rides, summer family BBQ meetings, charity rides and our annual Christmas Party.
From June 2015, we have had fundraisers such as our annual Spaghetti dinner as well as store front & recruiting collections. These fundraisers have helped this Chapter by allowing us the ability over the past 5 years to give donations to various organizations and to help support our Post, Auxiliary and Sons.
During this time, we have generously donated to various veterans & children’s organizations such as Hartford Children Hospital, Kites for Kylie, Comfort Warrior, Tough as Tanks, Legacy Fund, Combat Feathers, and Tough Ruck. Also, our donations to Post 101, Auxiliary Unit 101, & Squadron 101 have included funds for Boys and Girls State, Flags on Main St., the Post building fund, the . Veteran’s Home Christmas Shop & Kids Camp.
ALR Chapter 101 considers family 1st and what matters most is our veterans, their families and our communities. Connect with our fun-loving ALR Chapter 101 Riders -- charitable work was never more fun or creative! www.SomersPost101.org. (888) 240-8188
