Our History

In June of 2006, Sykesville Memorial Post 223 Legionnaires Kirk Bridygham and Harry Schafer and Auxiliary member Tedi Vaughn - all motorcycle enthusiasts - started talking about establishing a chapter of the American Legion Riders at Post 223. Kirk did the initial legwork - researching the requirements from the National American Legion Riders Information Center and getting approvals from both Post 223's Commander and from its membership, and setting up the bank account. Harry and Tedi then began recruiting interested people to join. Tom Williams and Sheldon Riddle then came on board to add support.

Finally, on August 16, 2006, the first meeting was held. The bylaws were voted on and the officers for the chapter were elected.

At the time of the first meeting, we already had 40+ members signed up. These people are the Charter Members of the group and are indicated as such by the "Charter Member" rocker they all wear. It was also decided at this first meeting to allow associate members - individuals who are part of the American Legion family but don't own motorcycles - to participate. The group was then registered with the National American Legion Riders.

Post 223's American Legion Riders made their public debut at a bike show held at Sykesville Memorial Post 223 in October, 2006 and our first group ride was held on Veterans Day, November 11, 2006.