National American Legion Riders Chairman David Heredia looks ahead to America’s 250th birthday, the 20th Legacy Run and more.
Some years are simply busy. Others are historic – the kind that remind us of who we are and why we ride.
2026 is one of those years.
As our nation commemorates 250 years of American independence, we also celebrate the 20th anniversary of The American Legion Legacy Run and the 33rd year of the American Legion Riders representing the mission and values of The American Legion.
Three milestones. One shared purpose. One Legion Family.
As National Commander Dan Wiley reminds us, we are “Better Together.” That is exactly how we will meet this moment: united in service, visible in leadership and grounded in mission.
We are better together as we forge a legacy as “Champions of Hope”.
33 Years Strong. For 33 years, the American Legion Riders have shown the nation that this program is about far more than motorcycles. It is about mission.
Our roots began in 1993 at American Legion Post 396 in Garden City, Mich., when Legionnaires Chuck “Tramp” Dare and Bill “Polka” Kaledas brought together members of the Legion Family who shared a passion for riding and a commitment to serve. What started as a post-level initiative quickly became a national movement defined by fellowship, patriotism and measurable impact.
Today, we continue that tradition as servant leaders who show up. We support Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation, National Security, Americanism, and Children & Youth. We stand beside families who grieve, we serve with discipline, and we build bridges between posts and the communities we call home.
Across America, you are often the most visible expression of the American Legion Family – and you represent it with professionalism and heart.
Thank you for every mile you’ve ridden in service. Thank you for every veteran you’ve supported. Thank you for being the steady presence our communities can count on.
Sojourn 250. In this anniversary year for our nation, the American Legion Riders – alongside the broader Legion Family – will take part in Sojourn 250, escorting a historic U.S. flag, carried with honor, in a powerful tribute to America’s enduring spirit. This is a once-in-a-generation moment, and we’re proud to help carry it forward.
This is more than a ride. It is a visible reminder of what unites us.
When our escort moves through towns and communities, people will recognize what it represents: patriotism in motion, neighbors standing together, and the American Legion Family – Legionnaires, Auxiliary, Sons, Riders and supporters – honoring the freedoms secured 250 years ago and carrying them forward with purpose.
The journey from Pennsylvania to Washington, D.C., is not just miles on a map. It is a historic statement of unity, gratitude and Americanism. In this milestone year, we have the honor of helping lead that tribute in a way the public will remember.
Service didn’t end with a uniform. It continues through the Legion Family and the communities we serve.
20 Years of the Legacy Run. This year also marks the 20th anniversary of the American Legion Legacy Run – a tradition that has carried hope across America for two decades.
In 2026, we return to our roots by riding America’s national byways: the scenic highways, historic towns and heartland roads that reflect the story of our country. The Legacy Run has always been about more than the destination. It is about the journey, the fellowship and the mission carried mile after mile.
That mission remains clear: supporting veterans and their families through the Veterans & Children Foundation (VCF).
For 20 years, Riders have turned throttle into tangible impact. This year, I encourage every Rider – whether participating in the full ride or supporting from home – to continue fundraising in support of the VCF.
Your support matters.
Every dollar raised strengthens our ability to provide direct assistance to veterans and military families facing unexpected hardship – helping with things like housing stability, essential living expenses, emergency travel or critical family needs when it matters most. The need is real, and so is the difference you make.
Ride with Impact. Our service does not begin and end with one event.
The Harley-Davidson Let’s Ride Challenge turns everyday riding into measurable support. Last year, ALR participation helped generate over $100,000 in donations from Harley-Davidson tied directly to the miles we logged.
That is the power of unity.
Those miles became funding. That funding became assistance. And that assistance changed lives.
That is why registering again this year matters. Registration ensures our miles are counted, our presence is visible and our collective impact continues to grow. If you rode last year, ride again – and bring another Rider with you.
The USA 250 Challenge is another opportunity for Riders across the country to honor this historic milestone through patriotic participation, community visibility, and service in action – all while promoting wellness and healthy activity through purposeful riding and connection.
You don’t have to travel cross-country to make an impact. Ride with purpose, serve where you are, and let your presence strengthen the communities we call home.
Here’s What I’m Asking Every Rider to Do:
· Support Sojourn 250 by sharing the story and encouraging participation where possible.
· Promote the Legacy Run and keep fundraising for the VCF. Every dollar matters.
· Register for the Let’s Ride Challenge and log your miles, so our impact continues to grow.
· Participate in the USA 250 Challenge in your community through visible patriotic service and engagement.
· Invite a Legion Family member or supporter to ride with you – and to serve alongside you.
This Is Our Moment. In 1776, Americans stepped forward for liberty.
In 1993, Legionnaires created the American Legion Riders to serve in a new and visible way.
In 2006, the Legacy Run began a movement that would raise millions in support of veterans and their families.
Now in 2026, those legacies converge.
This is not coincidence – it is continuity.
We are better together.
We forge a legacy together.
We ride as Champions of Hope.
Thank you for everything you do as servant leaders, supporting our military, our veterans, their families, and the communities we call home.
For God and Country,
David Heredia, Jr.
National Chairman, American Legion Riders Advisory Committee
- Riders