American Legion Riders Stop At VMI

Twenty-four motorcycles carrying 34 riders, roared up Letcher Avenue and onto the Virginia Military Institute post last Friday as part of the seventh annual Legacy Run of the Virginia American Legion Riders.

According to Rick Siler of Natural Bridge, western region director for the Virginia American Legion, VMI was chosen as a stop because of its direct connection with the military.

“This is where a lot of our military men and women get their start. A lot our riders have never seen this beautiful campus, and we wanted to bring them here and let them see it,” he said.

Siler presented a certificate of appreciation to Lt. Col. Collin Bissell, assistant operations and planning officer, who accepted the recognition on behalf of the Institute. The assembly then toured the VMI Museum, barracks, the Corps Physical Training Facility, and the Aquatic Center before leaving post.

The group raises money for the American Legion Veterans & Children Foundation, which provides much-needed assistance to disabled veterans, U.S. military families with children at home who are facing unexpected financial hardships, troops recovering from wounds and illnesses, and the children of fallen troops and disabled veterans.

“It prevents eviction, keeps the power on, and fulfills basic needs to hold a family together through difficult times,” said Siler. “Another top priority of the American Legion is to reduce veteran suicide. We want to promote the help available to veterans, and support them anyway we can.”