District 3 Sergeant-at-Arms Warren Clark, left, welcomes Roger Caldwell into the American Legion Rider family. Clark is a Rider member at Post 153, New Auburn. Caldwell recently attended a Rider function and spoke to District 3 Historian Paul Bernard. Bernard signed Caldwell up as a member of Post 150 and Riders. Clark, Caldwell and Bernard are Vietnam era veterans.

American Legion Riders on a roll

MECHANIC FALLS – The American Legion Rider program, a group of Legionnaires who are motorcycle enthusiasts, has been a spark of interest to many new members, especially Vietnam era veterans.

Legion Rider programs are popping up around the country. In Maine there are programs in Post 153, Auburn; Post 15, Caribou; Post 42, Damariscotta; Post 28, Farmington: Post 132, Richmond; Post 1, Rockland; Post 24, Rumford; and Post 202, Topsham.

The riders participate in the annual POW/MIA Rally each Memorial weekend in Washington, D.C.; they sponsor local charity events; and provide community service.

One group is spearheading an effort to erect a veterans’ memorial park in the center of their downtown area.

The program was designed to have people work together while enjoying themselves. The requirements to become an American Legion Rider include being a member of the American Legion, Auxiliary or Sons of the American Legion; owning a motorcycle (at least 250cc); or be the spouse of an owner who is an American Legion Rider.

Anyone interested in becoming a member of the American Legion or Rider program can contact Paul Bernard at [email protected]. Additional information can be found at www.maineamericanlegion.com.