American Legion Riders Chapter 202: August 2026 Update

After nearly record-setting distances in June, July’s extreme heat found the riders of American Legion Chapter 202 logging just 11,384 miles, less than half of the month before. Those who did get out to ride enjoyed group rides to destinations in Glasgow, Jefferson City, and Eureka Springs, spending $1,117.78 on fuel and $2,199 on meals. As part of the wider military riding community, we participated in the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association fundraiser in Moberly and supported Robert Hall’s funeral escort. Individual riders went further afield with Shannon Silvey visiting Niagara Falls and Steven Rush journeying to Wisconsin and making a stop at the Harley Davidson factory. 

Most importantly, however, two different incidents reminded us just how tight knit and mutually supportive chapter 202 actually is. When Dennis’ trike stalled, the text chain kicked into gear and riders immediately assembled to provide repairs and get everyone to safety. Even more significantly, when a negligent motorist pulled in front of Sharry. and sent her to the hospital for hand surgery, everyone rallied around her and the Mizzou ER instantly was full of people waiting to offer their support. Since then, her fellow riders have taken turns providing three and four-wheel rides to ensure that she is still included in all of our events. We are incredibly grateful that Sharry’s injuries were not any worse and that she is making such significant recovery.  

Off the road, we joined with the rest of Post 202 and VFW Post 280 in celebrating our nation’s 250th anniversary, complete with costumes, barbecue, and plenty of red, white, and blue. Two weeks later we celebrated Christmas in July at Bridget and Mike McGuire’s place in Mike’s last official action as director of chapter 202. After several years of helping rebuild the chapter, Mike has decided to step back and hand over the reins to our newly elected director, Jim Elkthunder. As Jim steps into leadership, he is supported by a familiar team of officers with Sandi Gruenwald staying on as assistant director, Sandy Thomspon as secretary, Bridget McGuire as treasurer, and Crystal Carter as sergeant of arms. We are grateful for Mike’s dedicated service and look forward to working with Jim in the years ahead.

In addition to our leaders, as a volunteer run organization, the American Legion Riders could not survive without the support of countless members donating their time and resources. Altogether our riders spent 543 hours representing our organization and donated $7,906 to charitable causes. The largest donation was made to Columbia’s Welcome Home homeless veterans organization, where we presented a check as part of our monthly burger and bike night. Finally, in recognition of the work we do to make our community a better place, we are also the recipients of a great deal of support from area businesses and organizations. This month we got a chance to thank everyone who contributed to our car, truck, and bike show with certificates of appreciation. 

Once again, huge thanks to everyone who supports our work, to everyone who gives of their time, and to everyone who stepped forward to lead us in the year ahead. None of this would be possible without you.