Posts Tagged ‘veterans’

american legion riders joining

We joined American Legion Riders Post 15 in Parkersburg, West Virginia, and that meant new vests for our patches—so we rode over to Schafer Leather in Marietta, Ohio for gear that’s built to last.

Why we joined the American Legion Riders

Motorcycling has always been about more than the miles. It’s the people you meet, the values you share, and that moment you realize you’ve found your crew. That’s why we’re proud to say we’ve joined the American Legion Riders – Post 15 in Parkersburg, West Virginia.

For us, this wasn’t about adding another patch to the vest. The Legion Riders show up—for veterans, for service, and for giving back through rides and community work—and that lines up with what riding has always meant to us. It felt like the right turn at the right time. And since I’m a veteran, it just makes sense.

Post 15 Legion Riders have a good number or riders from all branches of service, except Space Force (it might be to soon to have many veterans from that branch). We are looking forward to the rides this year.

About this blog.

New vests, new chapter (and a stop at Schafer Leather)

Joining the Legion Riders comes with a few changes—starting with the gear. We needed new vests set up for our American Legion Riders patches, so we pointed the bikes toward Schafer Leather in Marietta, Ohio.

If you’ve never been, Schafer isn’t just a shop—it’s a piece of American craftsmanship history. They’ve been at it for five generations, going all the way back to 1867. That’s not a slogan—that’s a whole lot of years doing leather the right way.

You notice it the moment you walk in: that clean leather smell, the attention to detail, and a crew that actually takes the time to help instead of rushing you out the door. While we were getting measured and sorting out the vest details, Debbie also checked something off her list—a new set of chaps.

There’s something fitting about starting a new chapter with gear from a local place that understands longevity. The American Legion Riders are about honor, service, and commitment. Schafer Leather seems to run on those same principles—do it right, take care of people, and make it last. We’re looking forward to riding with the Post 15 crew, supporting the causes they support, and earning these colors the right way—one ride, one event, one handshake at a time. If you see us out and about, come say hello. And if you’re anywhere near Marietta and need leather that’ll still be with you years from now, Schafer is worth the stop.

We joined American Legion Riders Post 15 in Parkersburg, WV—and celebrated the new chapter with a ride to Schafer Leather in Marietta, Ohio for vests, chaps, and old-school craftsmanship.

Every November 11th, the rumble of motorcycles across America takes on a deeper meaning. Veterans Day isn’t just another date on the calendar — it’s a chance to pause, reflect, and honor the men and women who’ve worn the uniform, stood the watch, and carried the weight of freedom on their shoulders.

For those of us in the riding community, the connection runs especially deep. Motorcycles have been part of military history for over a century — from Harley-Davidsons roaring across Europe in World War I, to Indian Scouts and WLA “Liberators” serving in World War II, to modern-day veterans who find healing and camaraderie on two wheels. The bond between motorcycles and the military is more than mechanical; it’s cultural, emotional, and enduring.

Why Riders Remember
  • Shared Brotherhood: Just like serving in the military, riding is about trust, loyalty, and watching each other’s back.
  • Freedom on Two Wheels: Veterans know better than most that freedom isn’t free. Every ride is a reminder of the sacrifices made to protect it.
  • Healing Journeys: For many veterans, motorcycles are more than machines — they’re therapy. The open road offers peace, clarity, and a sense of control.
Veterans Day 2025: What It Means

This year, as we gather at parades, memorials, and local rides, let’s remember that Veterans Day isn’t about politics or division. It’s about gratitude. It’s about shaking a veteran’s hand, listening to their story, and making sure they know their service mattered.

Across the country, motorcycle clubs and veteran riding groups will roll out in force — from the Patriot Guard Riders to local American Legion & VFW posts organizing commemorative rides. These events aren’t just about chrome and horsepower; they’re about respect.

How You Can Honor Veterans Today
  • Ride with Purpose: Join a Veterans Day ride or organize one in your community.
  • Support Veteran Causes: Donate to organizations that help veterans transition back to civilian life.
  • Simply Say Thank You: Sometimes the most powerful gesture is the simplest.
Final Thoughts

So today, whether you’re polishing your bike, heading out for a ride, or standing quietly at a memorial, take a moment to honor our veterans.

Because every mile we ride in freedom is a mile they earned for us.

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To all the current, past and future veterans “I salute you”!  As one myself I know the levels of hardship that can come with that lifestyle.m 10 8 4

Many service members will take their motorcycles with them each time they move, or sell their current bike to buy a new one at the other destination.  I like to think that this motivation is something that crosses international boundary’s. I can imagine a soldier in India riding or pulling his motorcycle to the next duty station just like an American soldier.

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Soldiers can sleep anywhere!

Veterans and motorcycles have had a long term relationship that still goes on today.  In the US there are a multitude of clubs formed by vet’s from the recent wars.  Whether or not they rode motorcycles as a duty or only when off duty, bikes are a way of life for many.

Below is a video on how WWII US Army dispatch riders trained.

 

Ride On, Ride Safe