ALR Florida History

In 1993, Chuck (Tramp) Dare, American Legion Post 396, Garden City, Michigan, shared an idea to start a motorcycle association that would operate within the American Legion. In 2003, Florida adopted the Riders program, and soon after Post 75 in Crestview was the 1st Chapter of the Florida ALR to form, followed quickly by many new Chapters in the area and state. The 1st ALR Chairman for the State of Florida was Steve Lugenbeel from Chapter 75. October of 2007, the American Legion Riders became a National program of The American Legion.

ALR Chapter 75 has a large presence in the local community. As a rider, we are the face of the American Legion, as we are the members who are out in the community, representing Post 75, and the American Legion. We do this with our emblems, flag, vests, and other regalia that we proudly wear to show our family pride. Our riders sponsor 2 major community fund-raising rides each year. Some of the ways the Legion Riders support our community:

• Annual Michael Anaya Memorial Poker Run. Poker run is named in honor of Crestview resident, and son of AL Post 75 Auxiliary member Cheryl Anaya, who gave his life in service to our country. Monies raised for this event go to various veteran’s organizations.
• Annual Run for the Toys Christmas ride. Proceeds and toys donated to Families First Network of Northwest Florida to support holiday cheer for under-privileged children in the local area.
• Annual Crestview Christmas Parade. Chapter 75 riders are part of the American Legion Post 75 family in the downtown parade.
• Motorcycle escorts for local fallen brothers/sisters in uniform.

Chapter 75 ALR also supports neighboring American Legion and veteran’s organizations (AmVets, VFW) with their participation in fund-raising events.

Currently, Chapter 75 has around 40 active members. We are growing each year, and welcome new riders. All you need:

• Be an active, current member (with current dues paid) of any of the families (Legionnaire, Aux, or Sons) of Post 75
• Have a current motorcycle endorsement
• Have, and operate, a motorcycle of 750cc or larger
• Be ready to become the face of the American Legion.