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To My American Legion Riders Brothers & Sisters: I know that many of you are not Masons but some of us are. Many of us ride for the same purpose, that being veterans of one service or another and serving in any way we can for the veterans who are putting themselves in harms way, and their families. These are the same ideals that we as Masons and Shriners share. There has been so much communication that I felt a need for a new page. There is nothing in these pages that cannot be seen by anyone. I hope that this page will be helpful to those of you who ride. Roger W. Miner, Editor In Memory of Sgt. Lonnie Calvin Allen, Jr. Sgt. Calvin Allen Jr. as he was called by his family, friends, and relatives was born on March 7th, 1980 and lost his life by an I.E.D. in Iraq on May 18th, 2006, while serving as a member of the 2nd Battalion, 22nd Infantry, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division stationed at Fort Drum, New York. He deployed to Bosnia and Kosovo and on his return to Germany, married Birgit Hoermann on Oct. 28th, 2004. She moved to Bellevue, Ne. when Calvin was deployed to Iraq. Calvin spent much time in school, graduating from Bellevue East High in 1998. He loved art and especially liked to draw cartoons and loved electronics. Calvin was an individualist but loved people. He made friends easily and had the ability to establish long lasting relationships. He was a member of Mount Carmel Baptist Church of Bellevue, Nebraska serving in the Youth Choir, the Young Men's Group, and ushering. He played sports in schools he attended and many of his classmates were there to eulogize him at the service. Calvin also was a Cub Scout and received the Arrow of Light award. He was a Boy Scout and received many badges and awards. He participated in community cleanups and food drives. He had a special place in his heart for Senior Citizens and gave them his attention and respect. He was also a role model for the D.A.R.E. program at Bellevue East. Calvin attended Northeastern Junior College in Sterling, Colorado where he studied Criminal Justice. He joined the Army in 2001 to finish his college career. The service was conducted at Capehart Chapel at Offutt Air Force Base in Bellevue, Nebraska the Rev. Herman Brown of Mount Carmel Baptist Church, Officiating. Rev. Brown stated that this Old Baptist Minister was there to celebrate this Great going home of this courageous and generous soldier. He said Calvin loved children and was honest and had integrity. He also reminded the congregation that the Lord may not come when you call him, but he is always there. He admonished the family that they should always keep his memory alive. The Reverend Brown, at the conclusion of the service, sang the well known hymn, "It Is Well With My Soul". Calvin is survived by his wife , parents, and older brother and many of his relatives and friends. The Capehart Chapel was full to overflowing. Over 400 members of the American Legion Riders and the Patriot Guard stayed outside as there was no room in the Chapel. They were there to honor Calvin and his family. After the service, the A.L.R. and the Patriot Guard joined in the processional. I was just inside the door taking notes wearing my motorcycle vest when a Sergeant in Uniform approached me and said he appreciated the thoughtfulness of all the motorcyclists who was there to honor our fallen hero, Calvin. That Sergeant made my day. All of the Riders should be very proud of that appreciation. It makes our efforts worthwhile. Left - Some of the Riders who attended the Memorial Service. Right - The first line of Motorcycles.
Left - The second and third line of Motorcycles. Right - The forth line of motorcycles.
Left - The casket and procession progresses through the lines as our Riders honors Calvin and Family. Right - The casket is escorted by Rev. Brown before being placed in the hearse. Interment will be at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia on Tuesday, May 30th, 2006 at 3:00 p.m. Before closing it is only fitting to include a poem written by Lonnie Calvin Allen, Jr. from his Seventh Grade English Class and I quote: God's Miracle Birds love to sing. Lovely small creatures, Go to the Patriot Guard Riders Page for more on Sergeant Calvin Allen, Jr. MEMORIAL OF BENJAMIN JAMES SLAVEN Go to the Patriot Guard Riders Page to see the Memorial of Ben Slaven in words and pictures of June 20th, 2006.
PATRIOT DAY OBSERVANCE VETERANS MEMORIAL GARDEN Antelope Park Lincoln, Nebraska Sunday, September 10th, 2006, 7:00 P.M. This From Bob Brophy on August 27th, 2006 ALR & PGR YOU ARE INVITED TO A THANK YOU DINNER BY LINCOLN AREA FAMILY READINESS GROUP A FAMILY SUPPORT GROUP FOR THE NEBRASKA NATIONAL GUARD RSTA / 167 CAVALRY UNIT WHERE & WHEN LEE'S RESTAURANT, 1940 WEST VAN DORN, LINCOLN, NE SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 10, 2006 @ 5:00 PM
Lee's Restaurant is known nation wide for it's great chicken!! This will also be a wonderful opportunity for the families and friends of our National Guardsmen to meet and thank the ALR and PGR for their efforts. They will need a head count please call Bob Brophy at 402-783-2027 by Thursday the 7th. Directions: Take hwy 77 (west bypass) south on the west side of Lincoln, exit on west Van Dorn go west about a mile Lee’s will be on the right (north side) Navy guys...Just follow a Marine they will find the food and the Army will be waiting when you get there.
All ALR members
Wanted to get this started so you all can plan on
it. With a little luck (lot of luck) I have attached a copy of the invitation
to a dinner in Lincoln hosted by the Lincoln Area Family Readiness Group.
This will be a great opportunity to let the families
of our currently deployed troops know a little about us and give them a sense
of knowing that we are with them in remembering their loved ones who are
putting themselves in harms way daily for our freedom. I can't imagine what
it is like for a parent or spouse to know their loved one is in an area like
Iraq or Afghanistan. Please try to attend.
I will certainly plan to attend, and fyi Brophy, it's
very seldom that the Navy can't find their way to food!!!!!
Please let Brophy know ASAP if you can make it. His
email address is
oldhippybb@aol.com.
Omaha area riders, we will plan to meet at the bp
station, south of I-80 on Hwy 50, (the Sapp Bros. exit) it's also 144th
street, and leave there @ 1500 (3:00 PM)
Any questions?? take care, bob swanson
Editors Note: It might be a good Idea to combine these two together and attend the Patriot Day Observance on Patriots Day, September 10th, at 7:00 p.m. NOTES FROM AMERICAN LEGION RIDERS
From Bob
Swanson on Sunday, August 27th, 2006
All: Jeff is one of the "founding 7" members of our ALR, and he's getting hitched!!
Please advise Jeff if you can make it. I plan to be there on the 16th, but
won't be able to make it on the 9th.
GOOD LUCK JEFF!!!!!
bob swanson
Here we go, on Sept. 9th 2006 at 7:30 pm there will be a
bachelor party for Jeff Douglass at the silver spoke its on 77hwy south and
Saltillo Rd Lincoln. Any questions call Jeff at 402-217-3518 And for the guys we will have live entertainment at the
spoke. And then on Sept. 16th, 2006 we are getting married and we would like to invite as many people to the reception who can make it. We will meet at Legends bar and grill on 84th at 6:30 pm , On the bikes to have one hell of an entrance to Hillcrest country club hope to see ya. From Bob Swanson on Sunday, August 27th, 2006
Four new members, Bridget Dorcey, Clint Van Wuffen, Brian Mann and Paul
Price. Welcome to all four and I hope to see you at the next event.
This also gives me an excuse to give everyone the website for the American
Legion where you can order American Legion Rider gear. The website address
is: legion.org. When you get there, in the upper right, click on "shop
emblem catalog", it then shows, "shop by organization", click on "The American
Legion". When you get the list, scroll down to "legion riders". That will
show you all items available with the ALR logo.
To order a large patch with "Nebraska Chapter" on the bottom, or a large
patch with "Omaha Post (your Post #)" across the tom and "Nebraska Chapter" on
the bottom, you have to call their toll free # which is 888-453-4466. You can
also order t shirts with "Nebraska Chapter" on them but I think you can do
that on line. Doc usually has rockers for sale at the meetings. The ALR
orders them since they have to be ordered in a minimum of 6.
It's great when we get together and everyone has ALR gear on, if you have
any questions about ordering, get in touch.
Again, welcome to our new members.
take care, bob swanson
From Bob Swanson on Thursday, August 24th, 2006
I didn't say that I wouldn't send out another email reminding everyone
about the meeting tomorrow night. Friday 8/25/2006, 1900 (7:00 PM) @ Post 1,
7811 Davenport.
Don't forget, food service beginning @ 1730 (5:30 PM) Don't give the cook
any grief, it's my son-in-law!!!
Hope to see you all there, and of course the A 2 A parade in Bellevue on
Sat. morning. We need to be lined up on Lincoln Road by 0930 @ the latest.
Those who want to can meet at the P66, @ 60th & F, just south of I-80 on 60th
@ 0830 and we can ride down together. We are in position
#12 of 154! Tommy, if you get a chance, advise me
of a spot where we can park. Great job by Tommy for placing us so
far up front and NO HORSES in front of us. (this is where I would usually
make some wise crack about the Marines but I won't,) The new me!!
Seriously, we should be there to show our support and appreciation for the
men and women serving our country. Every time you see a man or woman in
uniform, take the time to go up to them and shake their hand and let them know
they are appreciated. Those of you who have been to other events where we
show our support know what a good feeling it is for them and each of us.
If it's rainy or not, it's not sissy to walk. We will have a lot of 3 X 5
flags to carry and a little water won't hurt any of you. (Might do the
Marines some good) Darn it, I wasn't going to do that.
take care, bob swanson
From Bob Swanson on Monday, August 21st, 2006
Sorry I have not sent out emails for a week, been on the road
(Sturgis/Cripple Creek)
Trying to catch up here, several events coming on SOON!
#1. The "Moving Wall" escort on Wed. Aug. 23. As
you all know, the PGR has been asked to escort the "Wall" from the Kansas
border to Hebron, a distance of about 13 miles. It will be there for 5 days.
I hope we can get a good turnout for this even though it is a week day and I
know some of you have real jobs. From the Omaha area, meet at the
Flying J Truck stop on Hwy 31 & I-80 @ 0630, leave there @ 0700. The "Wall"
is expected in Chester, where we begin the escort @ 1200.
#2. Meeting this Friday, Aug. 25 @ 1900 (7 PM) @ Post 1, 7811
Davenport. Food served beginning 1730 (5:30 PM). This Friday the
special is fish & chips. Also burgers, ff, rings, etc. We will discuss the
By-Laws, the idea of Christmas packages for troops, upcoming parades, and
Cliff will update us on PGR events. (I hope no one brings up the idea of all
members being required to wear a Navy patch again!)
#3. The Arrows To Aerospace parade in Bellevue on Sat., Aug.
26. They now have 100 entrants in this salute to the military
parade, and our position is #12. Tommy assures me there are no horses in
front of us. We will have members who want to ride their bikes in the parade,
and we will also have members who will want to walk and carry our ALR banner
and flags. YOUR CHOICE. The main thing is that we have a good turnout.
Assembly time is no later than 0930, so lets meet at the P66, 60th & F street
which is about 1 block south of I-80. Be ready to leave there by 0830. If
you can't make it there, meet us in Bellevue on Lincoln Road. Be there no
later than 0930. Give it some thought about walking or riding, as we will try
to get enough PGR large flags for those who are walking. Let me
know by email if you will be walking so I can make arrangements for enough
flags.
These are great events for our ALR and your participation is certainly
appreciated. Every opportunity we get to show our support for veterans and
currently serving men and women is an opportunity we should capitalize on.
THEY DESERVE OUR SUPPORT!
I know there are other events that we can discuss Friday.
any questions?
bob swanson
From Tom Kennedy on Tuesday, August 18th, 2006
ALR Lincoln area; received the following from Jim
Turner. Jim and Jeff from Lincoln ALR will be helping PGR as Road Guards.
Hope you can make .
Tom , ALR Road Captain
Lincoln----- All Lincoln and surrounding area
riders will meet at Star City
Motor Sports parking lot (just south of the Cracker Barrel, apx. 3 blocks South of North 27th and I-80) at 7:30 am. We will have a short safety meeting and be ready to roll when the Omaha riders arrive. Ride captains will be the primary road guards; secondary road guard from Lincoln will be Jeff Douglas. If you are riding in a cage please let the ride captains know which vehicle is the last in line (it will help us when we have to block traffic). After we depart Lincoln all ride captains will catch up with the lead bike and fall in to formation so they will be in position to run road guard when needed. Hope to see everyone there on the Morning of Aug. 23rd. From Tom Kennedy on Tuesday, August 15th, 2006
Subject: Run for Kids
A great ride this Saturday. August 19th. Shrine
Run for Kids, Starts at Frontier Harley, Lincoln sponsored by the Shrine Iron
Nobles. A good cause and a fun ride .
ALR members meet at Conoco station across from the
Cracker Barrel on North 27th street Lincoln, exit # 403 off Hwy. 80. Depart
for Frontier at 11:00AM .
hope to see you there.
Ride Safe, Tom From Bob Swanson on Monday, August 14th, 2006
Thought it best to send out a notice now, between trips, just so I don't
overlook it altogether.
The next ALR meeting is August 25, @ 1900 (7:00 PM) @ Post 1, 7811
Davenport. Hope to see you all there, we have work to do on the Christmas
packages for troops and everyone's input will be needed if we are going to do
this.
I expect I will see most of you on August 23 for the escort for the Moving
Wall.
Any questions or suggestions for the meeting agenda, get in touch.
take care, bob swanson
From Bob Swanson on Monday, August 7th, 2006
All: Here is the final
for this man. Thanks in advance to all who can make this service. Cliff and
I spent some time yesterday with his father and other family members and they
are very appreciative of the efforts of all who will be in attendance from
around the state. His dad, Lonnie, said that he used to ride, and had a pony
tail longer than mine, and can't wait until he retires so he can get back to
it. A very gracious man who is very proud of his son. As you might expect,
his conversation is occasionally interrupted by tears.
take care, bob swanson
FINAL ITINERARY
FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS: The funeral for Josh will be on Thursday @ 10:00 A.M, at St Marks Lutheran Church on 306 S. Norris Ave. He will be coming at approx 9:15. The family will arrive soon there after. We will render honors to him and the family going into the church, and upon departure. There will be approx 100 flags on poles in the rear parking lot where we will park, which should be displayed along the sidewalk and entrance to the church. Mission Ride: From Omaha--We will meet at Dillion Bros Harley,180th Maple St at 0645, Short ride meeting, and cluthces out at 0700. Make sure your tanks are full, it's a total of 70 miles up. We will take Hwy 275 west to Hooper and then 77 North , then Hwy 32 West to West Point arrival time 0800. We will stage up at the BP station on 275 west on the north end of town. We will leave at 0815, going north on Hwy 9, with arrival time of 0845 in Pender. We will meet at "Smiths gas station" as you come into town it's on the south end. It has a gravel parking lot, so be aware. We will leave there at 0900, with a 3 block ride to church.
All other folks coming from different directions, please refer to your maps for the route that is best for your trip. Bob Selzer from Lincoln will be leading from there, please contact him at 1-402-477-3626 for questions, or mail him at b Darryl Price from Bellevue will be Ride Captain from Omaha. You can reach him at 1-402-415-7772, or mail him at darryl.price@cox.net.
I am planning on escorting to the cemetery which is about 1 mile from the church. There is a stretch of road (less than 1/4 mile) that is gravel going into the cemetery. They have assured me that it will be smoothed out and ready for us, but be careful!! I would like for some people plus the "FLAG GUY" (Herb Anderson) to go to the cemetery after the service starts, to line the entrance with flags. Please get with the "FLAG GUY" and let him know who you are so he can take you there. The Ride Captains will organize the departure line-up from the church so as to avoid confusion.
They have not posted anything yet, but the word is out that they plan on coming, so once again I need to remind everyone that the reason we are there is to pay our respects and honor the Soldier and the family. If they somehow they end up along the route, we will shield the family from them. Any Questions, ask me.
Please, we need all the attendance we can get on this funeral, it's Sturgis week, and I know that we are going to be short, but I know that I can depend on the PGR people to "DO The Right Thing"
Cliff Leach Nebraska State Captain, PGR
From Bob Swanson on Monday, August 7th, 2006
The escort mission for this evening from Eppley has been
CANCELLED!
The plane carrying the body of Sgt. Joshua Ford is not expected in until
1145 (11:45 PM). With the weather expected, it was felt that canceling the
escort and leaving it to the police was the right thing to do.
Please try to make the funeral service on Thursday.
take care, bob swanson
From the Editor: Sorry about the delay in getting this posted. From Bob Swanson on Sunday, August 6th, 2006
To all ALR members:
Here are details for the Lincoln area ALR/PGR members attending the service in
Pender on Thursday, August 10.
The Patriot Guard Riders plan to participate in this funeral for Sgt. Ford. ALR members who would like to travel with the Lincoln Area PGR members should stage at the Phillips 66 U-Stop gas station, located at 3280 Superior Street (No. 33rd & Superior just east of Wal-Mart), Lincoln, at 0600, Thursday morning. Following a riders briefing, clutches out at 0610. We will proceed to West Point, Neb., via Highway 77 and Highway 275. At 0800, we will meet with the Omaha area riders at a BP gas station on the north edge of West Point on Highway 275. We will then proceed to Pender to participate in the mission. Since many riders may be participating in the activities at Sturgis when the funeral is scheduled, it is important for PGR member who are available to participate in this mission be ready to ride at 0600 on Thursday. Please plan to attend if your schedule permits. Bob Selzer American Legion Riders Nebraska State Captain Rocky Mountain Regional Captain Patriot Guard Riders
From Bob Swanson on Sunday, August 6th, 2006
The body of Sgt. Joshua Ford of Pender, Ne. comes home tomorrow evening,
Monday, August 7.
Those of you who are available to welcome him home, should be @ Eppley
Airport by 1830 (6:30 PM). We will stage on the South end of Eppley, on the
West side of Abbott Drive. It is expected that there will be an Omaha Police
Dept. escort all the way to Pender, so our involvement will end when they head
North on Hwy 75. While we do not have the exact route they will take from
Eppley, it is expected they will take I-680 to Hwy 75.
A couple of things to keep that can't be controlled; the arrival time of
the plane and the weather. We have had a great turnout in the past to welcome
our fallen heroes, and it is imperative that we have a great turnout tomorrow
evening. A lot of PGR and ALR members are in Sturgis so those of us here need
to make an extra effort to show up. This man knew he could count on his
comrades, and we have to show that he was right.
You probably know that the funeral service is scheduled for Thursday,
August 10, @ 1000 in Pender, NE. Please monitor the PGR website @
patriotguard.org for the latest info on assembly and travel to Pender on
Thursday.
Attending to our fallen brothers and sisters is the most important thing we
can do for them.
see you Monday evening,
bob swanson From Tom Kennedy on Saturday, August 5th, 2006
For those riders going to Wibur tomorrow at Noon , there
is a Flag ceremony at 1PM at the Post Office being put on by the
Wilbur American Legion Post #101. We can also have some lunch at the Legion
Post.
Ride safe, Tom From Bob Swanson on Thursday, August 3rd, 2006
OK, not a lot of response to a ride to Sidney, Ia. this Sat. for the rodeo,
(lot of people going to Sturgis) but I'm going anyway.
Those that want to ride down, we will meet at the P66 @ 60th & F (1 blk
south of I-80 at the 60th street exit) @ 1000. We'll find a place for lunch
and get to Sidney in plenty of time for the 1330 (1:30 PM ) rodeo. Should be
home early.
take care, bob swanson
From Bob Swanson on Tuesday, August 1st, 2006 I am forwarding an email which I received from one of our members dealing with the death of a Nebraska warrior. Details aren't available yet regarding a mission for the PGR, but if it comes to be, it means we will be asked to show how much we care when one of our brothers from Pender, NE (pop. about 1100) falls. If you haven't yet signed on the the Patriot Guard Riders, please do so. Go to patriotguard.org and follow the instructions. This will make it easier to follow developments on this fallen hero's welcome home plans. I will try to keep everyone informed. Keep Spc. Ford and his family in your prayers. bob swanson
From:
Lempke, Roger P MajGen NGNE To members of the Nebraska National Guard, it is with grave regret that I must inform you of the following. Spc. Joshua Ford, 20, of Pender, Neb., was killed last evening when an improvised explosive device struck his vehicle during a convoy mission to Tallil Air Base in south central Iraq. A second Nebraska Army National Guard Soldier was seriously wounded in the blast and has been evacuated to Germany. The Soldier’s name is not being released at this time. Ford was a member of the Wayne-based Detachment 1, 189th Transportation Company. He was a 2004 graduate of Pender High School. Ford joined the Nebraska Army National Guard as a heavy vehicle driver in February 2003 while still attending high school. He was mobilized for Operation Iraqi Freedom in October 2005. According to unit officials, the two Nebraska Army National Guard Soldiers were driving a military truck in a convoy from Forward Operating Base Delta to Tallil Air Base when their truck was struck by the IED near Al Numaniyah, Iraq, during the early evening hours of Monday, July 31. Ford died shortly after. RPL From Bob Swanson on Tuesday, August 1st, 2006
All: I am advised that we recently missed a couple of area events
involving welcome home ceremonies for troops that were sponsored by American
Legion Posts.
I would ask that any ALR member that sees an article or comes into info
about an area welcome home or sendoff for troops, please let me know so we can
try to attend.
Those of you who have attended these events before know how much they are
appreciated by the troops and their families, and showing our appreciation for
their service either when they are leaving or coming home, is the least we can
do.
take care, bob swanson
From Bob Swanson on Monday, July 31st, 2006
OK cowboys and cowbetts, (Marines, that's Navy for cowgirls) how about
attending the Sidney, Iowa rodeo this Sat., 8/5.
This event was started by the American Legion there, and is still supported
by Post 128 in Sidney. Sat. is veterans discount day for the matinee @ 1330
(1:30 PM) They give $4.00 off to veteran and spouse if you have a current
veteran's organization card, i.e. American Legion/VFW, or have an
active/retired valid military card. The regular ticket prices range from
$22.00 for reserved box, $14.00 for reserved Section I, $13.00 for reserve
Section E, and $10.00 for general.
Thought we would meet up and ride over to the Glenwood, Ia. area for lunch,
and then take a short ride down to Sidney. Details later if there is
interest, kind of looking for feedback on whether there is any interest. Let
me know what you think.
take care, bob swanson
From Tom Kennedy on Sunday, July 30th, 2006
Greetings, I have attached
information and a link to my daughters Fund Raiser website that she started
with another lady.
The photo is of two of
my grandchildren that both have implanted defibrillators. Please forward so
that others may be made aware. Thank You, Tom
http://www.firstgiving.com/KeepitBeating From Bob Swanson on Saturday, July 29th, 2006
Anyone else going to Sturgis, leaving on Wed., the 9th, with a stop in
Mitchell that night and want to ride up from Omaha???
later, bob swanson
From Bob Swanson on Friday, July 28th, 2006
OK, I know we have been having meetings on the third Friday of the month,
but for August, I would like to have it on 8/25. Unless I get a ton of email
telling me what a stupid idea that is, we will have it then. Mark your
calendar for Friday, August 25, @ 1900 (7 PM) at Post 1, 7811 Davenport. For
my Air Force friends, so you can adjust your diet, the menu at the Post that
night calls for fish & chips. (I don't know why I said that, I just wanted to
lay off the Marines for once)
While I am not a fan of parades, we are invited to a few, and should
participate. The Arrows to Aerospace Parade in Bellevue on Sat. 8/26 is a
great opportunity to show our support for the military. Our fee is being
taken care of for us and we will have the use of flags from the PGR for those
who choose to walk. We should have a mix of walkers and riders for that
parade. More details later.
Friday, Sept. 1 is Veteran's Day at the NE. State Fair. We need to decide
if we want to have representation at that event, the parade is @ 1200, noon.
(Participation in the parade gets you in free)
On Sat., Sept. 9, in York, NE. during Yorkfest, they are having a parade
with a patriotic theme and want to know if we want to be involved.
I think I know our membership well enough to think that we should
participate in these events which all have a patriotic flavor. They also give
us a chance to get together and do a little riding. Good day trip out to
York.
Anyone with input on these events, let me know. I will send out additional
details, but get our the calendar and mark them down. (Marines, just have
someone circle them)
take care, bob swanson
From Bob Swanson on Tuesday, July 25th, 2006
Talk about last minute!!! As you may or may not know, they are opening the
overpass on West Dodge Rd. over 114th on Thursday morning @ 0830. Cliff works
for the State and they have invited us to participate in the opening ceremony
by riding over the overpass with antique car clubs and other dignitaries who
will be there. The catch is, we need a count by tomorrow morning, Wed. so
they can issue passes.
We will assemble in the Westroads parking lot, on the east side, close to J
C Penneys. If you can be there @ 0800 and want to ride, either call me or
email me by 2200 (10:00 PM ) tonight, Tuesday, so I can give them a count
tomorrow morning.
After the event, we can ride somewhere to either breakfast or lunch
depending on what time it is over with.
take care, bob swanson
From Bob Swanson on Tuesday, July 25th, 2006
OK, we talked about it at the meeting this past Friday. Cliff has gathered
parts for a couple hundred 3 X 5 flags, and now we need to attach them the the
conduit he also acquired. The Gretna American Legion Post has said we can use
their "back yard" next Sunday, 7/30 for the project. Two or three of you have
advised that you have drill presses you can bring, and that probably means you
won't be able to ride. That's OK, we just need to get these flags assembled!
The Post opens @ 1600 (4 PM) on Sunday, so try to get there then. I don't
think this will take more than 2 - 3 hours if we have a dozen or so people
there. Feel free to bring a sandwich or box of chicken or whatever you might
like to eat and we can take a break for a bite. Drinks will be available for
purchase from the Post.
So we know if we will have enough people to get the job done,
please advise me by Thursday night if you will be able to make it.
To get to the Post, you need to take Angus Street West until you cross over
the viaduct and then turn South to get to the club. (I think it is 216th
St). If coming from Omaha, you can take Hwy 370 from I-80, West to Hwy 31
intersection. Keep going West from that intersection to the sign pointing to
the Post. (again, I think this is 216th).
Hope to see you next Sunday. Questions???
bob swanson
From Bob Swanson on Saturday, July 22nd, 2006
Our newest member is Ray Bullock. He lives in Bellevue and was at the
meeting last night. Welcome Ray.
Regarding the meeting last night, it was great! Good attendance, and good
discussions. Great to meet member Rick Mills finally, he's just back from
Afghanistan and was at the meeting with his lovely wife.
The meeting got off to a somewhat rocky start with someone proposing
everyone wear a Navy patch, but the minutes will reflect that I led the
movement to quash that idea. (Marines-quash means stop)
After that, we discussed several events coming up, everyone got a
commemorative copy of the agenda with dates of same. One of the biggies is
the escort for the Vietnam Memorial moving wall on 8/23. This is a PGR event
and details will be out shortly.
We also discussed the A2A parade in Bellevue on 8/26. Everyone agreed this
would be a great opportunity to show off our new ALR banner which was
presented by Terry Bruner and purchased for us by Post 1. Tommy Thompson is
on the parade committee and advised that our entry fee would be covered by the
Bellevue/Offutt Kiwanis Club. He has already made a formal request for our
entry. HE ASSURED US WE WOULD NOT BE BEHIND HORSES! (Cole and Squirrel had a
bad experience with same and still suffer from nightmares) We will be walking,
not riding in the parade.
Assembly time on Saturday 8/26 is 0900...parade steps of at 1000. We need
to be there by 0900. We will assemble on Lincoln Road in Bellevue, we will
meet somewhere prior to that so we can all ride in together. This is
historically a big parade, and I think we will have a good time. The way I
see it, we will carry the ALR banner, and others will carry flags. Maybe we
can borrow the PGR flags for the event. Cliff??? More specifics will be out
later, this is just to give you a heads up so you can mark your calendar.
Regarding PGR flags, they are in and need to be assembled. I will put out
a call for help as soon as a place can be identified where we can get together
for that. Cliff has done a great job of getting the flags/poles/fixtures so
the hard part is done.
We also discussed something for the holidays, and kind of landed on the
idea of putting together "care packages" for some of the troops. I invite
everyone to send me ideas for what should be in the cp, and be thinking of
where we can get said items. Couple of suggestions that I remember coming up,
playing cards and magazines/paperback books. Don't forget that we have both
men and women deployed so think about items for both. This is a work in
progress, but I have a feeling it will turn out to be a big deal! I know that
by the time we left, a few members were already talking about sewing the bags
to use to hold items. Others had made suggestions on items they could
provide.
Thanks again to all you really great people who make this so much fun.
Minutes of the meeting will be out later.
take care, bob swanson
From Bob Swanson on Thursday, July 20th, 2006
Our newest member is Michael "Mac" McNulty. Welcome Mac.
Not only has Mac joined the ALR, he has also joined the American Legion!
This is one of the best things to come out of the ALR, getting new members who
are eligible, to join the Legion. Lots of men and women who have served our
country have not joined the veteran's organizations, and the ALR has given
them a reason to. The American Legion, as you all know, is the largest war
time veterans organization in the world. Strong voice when it comes to
lobbying on veteran's issues.
Thanks again to all of you veterans for your service, and to our SAL
members for the service of their family member and for their sacrifice.
Don't forget, meeting Fri. @ 1900 (7 PM) @ Post 1, 7811 Davenport.
Food service starts @ 1730.
take care, bob swanson
From Bob Swanson on Monday, July 17th, 2006
Don't forget, our next meeting is this Friday, July 21 @ 1900
(7:00 PM) @ Post 1, 7811 Davenport, downstairs. Food service
starts @ 1730 (5:30 PM), Philly sand., hamb., fish, rings & fries are
available. (We hope to vote on the requirement that everyone
wear a NAVY patch at meetings)
Couple of events this weekend, both on Sat., 7/22.
The first is the Blue Ribbon Poker Run sponsored by the Omaha Police
Union. PROCEEDS GO TO SPECIAL OLYMPICS! Registration begins @ 0900 @ the
Police Union Hall, 13445 Cryer Ave. (2 blks north & 2 blks west of 132nd & W.
Center Rd) Total miles approx. 110, $20.00 includes hamb or hot
dog/chips/soft drink.
The other event is the Day of the Hog Poke run for Muscular Dystrophy.
Registration $30.00 @ Dillon HD, 0900 - 1200. This one ends in Valley with a
street dance and live entertainment.
Lets talk about these at the meeting.
We will also discuss changes to the By Laws, and ordering more patches.
Anyone that has anything they would like to discuss at the meeting, let me
know.
From Bob Swanson on Thursday, July 13th, 2006
The family has invited us to the Memorial Service on Sat. July 15, @ 1000,
Capehart Chapel in Bellevue. Meet @ 0800 @t the Kwik shop on Capehart, just
west of hwy 75. Riders mtg @0830, clutches out @ 0845 for the Chapel.
Bring your flags to show your support for this young sailor who put his
life on the line for us.
take care, bob swanson
Lincoln Riders meet at 84th and Cornhusker (Hwy6) at 7:30AM Saturday morning. Tom
From Bob Swanson on Wednesday, July 12th, 2006
OK, 1400 (2:00 PM).
( I would have caught it#%$^#$^*$)
----- Original Message -----
From:
Robert Swanson
To:
swansoro@msn.com
Sent: Wednesday, July 12, 2006 6:14 PM
Subject: 3 things
1st thing: If you can make it tomorrow, GREAT! Everyone feels good about
a Welcome Home. These are people who have been away from their families and
have gone in harms way to defend our way of life. That's about as special
as you can get. Omaha riders will be leaving from the bp station south of
I-80 on Hwy 50 at 1400 (2:00 PM). We will meet up with the Lincoln area
riders and leave the Star Motorcycle across the street from the Cracker
Barrel, and leave there @ 1515 (3:15 PM).
2nd thing: Newest member is Robert Johnsen from Beatrice. Welcome Robert
"bubba", and hope you can make it up to Lincoln tomorrow. Otherwise, we
look forward to seeing you at an upcoming event such as our NEXT
MEETING 7/21 @1900 (7:00 pm) @ POST 1, 7811 DAVENPORT.
3RD thing. Couple of events this weekend: It appears that there will be a
Memorial Service this Sat. @ 1000, Caphart Chapel in Bellevue for the sailor
who went overboard. We will await word to see if the family invites the PGR
to that service. I will keep you advised.
Also this Sat., is the WIND and FIRE Poker Run. Sign up 8:30 to 11:30 @
McFly's Tavern on 45th & Center. $15.00 for 1 person, $20.00 for 2.
From Bob Swanson on Tuesday, July 11th, 2006
I just got off the phone with the Family Readiness Coordinator in Lincoln
who advised me that a unit of the Air National Guard is returning Thursday, @
1600 (4:00 PM). These are special events and although it is short notice, we
should try to attend.
Omaha riders meet at the bp station south of I-80 on Hwy 50, & be ready to
leave
@ 1400 (2:00 PM). We will meet up with the Lincoln area riders @ 1500
(3:00 PM) @ Star Motorcycle, (I think that's the name of it) across from the
"Tom Kennedy Cracker Barrel".
Be ready to leave there @ 1515 (3:15 PM) to the airport.
Hope we can have a good turnout to show these people how much we appreciate
their service.
Any questions, get in touch.
bob swanson
31 Army National Guard soldiers returned home from Afghanistan Thursday, July 13th, 2006 They are part of the 209th Regional Training Institute based in Ashland and spent the last 16 months training thousands of officers for the Afghan National Army. Lt. Col. Timothy Zegers enjoyed the evening at Oaklake Park with friends and family who flew in from around the country to welcome him home. Earlier in the day a plane full of Army National Guard soldiers landed at the Lincoln Airport and Zegers says he wasn't expecting the crowd. "It's wonderful. My family came to see me. They were tremendous support this whole year and I couldn't have got through with out them," Zegers said. After 16 months away from home, Zegers couldn't wait to see his wife. "She's beautiful, she looks great," Zeger said. "I told you he's wonderful," his wife, Drey Ihm said. The rest of the family agrees. The plan now is to relax and reminisce. His sister Sharon says she's always been extra close to her little brother and says she's just glad he's home. "Oh my god. My heart was happy. Oh he's home. Finally he's home," Sharon Shores said. Zegers reaction was like many of the soldiers. "It's a moment that you wait for a wait for forever and then all of a sudden that moment is happening and then you're like okay here we go," Zegers said. Zeger says their small group trained more than 10,000 Afghan troops on marksmanship and basic training and says they made a lot of progress. From KOLN - KGIN TV NEWS
Left - When the American Legion and Patriot Guard Riders arrive, we
position the Bikes in front of the National Guard Armory.
It has been quite some time since they left for Afghanistan and they are finally home. In the Armory, everyone hears from the Governor of the State of Nebraska and Representatives from Congress and the City of Lincoln. They also heard from Brig. Gen. Roger Lemke and the Commanders of their own 209th Regional Training Command. WE WISH THEM A HEARTY WELCOME BACK. From Tom Kennedy Sunday, July 9th, 2006
Sunday 12 noon lunch at Cracker barrel North 27th
1:00 PM depart for Post #1 Omaha for Bob Swanson's
appointment to Post Commander.
Great day for a ride. Tom
From Bob Swanson on Friday, July 7th, 2006
All: This is the schedule for Lincoln area riders. Tom
Kennedy sent this to me and asked that I forward it to all of you who might
be coming from "that area". You people are a very important part of the ALR
and your support and attendance at events is appreciated. Keep in mind what
we are doing tomorrow, and I am sure that each of you will agree that this
is important.
The reason I try to send out PGR info is that not all ALR
members have signed on to the PGR!! $#@^%&$
I think Cliff said our latest Nebraska count of PGR
members is over 500! It doesn't cost anything
Take care, hope to see you Sat. bob swanson
Subject: Saturday
From Tom Kennedy on Friday, July 7th, 2006
Any Lincoln area riders PGR or ALR or other
supporting brothers planning to ride the escort and funeral in Omaha on
Saturday for Jeremy Jones, a Decorated Fallen Hero from Nebraska, join us.
The Jones Family has welcomed our support..
Meet for Breakfast at 6:00AM at Cracker Barrel
North 27th.
Depart from Cracker Barrel at 6:45AM for Omaha.
Spread the word .
Thanks, Ride Safe, Tom
"Ride and
Support to Honor"
From Bob Swanson on Thursday, July 6th, 2006
All.
Here's the latest, and it must be the last. The soldier is scheduled to return to Eppley Airfield @ 2130 (9:30 PM) tonight, Thursday, July 6, 2006.
For the escort service tonight, assemble @ 2000 (8 PM) on
the south end of Eppley on the west side of Abbott Drive.
On Sat., July 8, 2006, begin staging @ 0745 @ Allied Oil
Parking Lot on 24th and Martha, (just to the north of the intersection)
Riders meeting there @ 0815, clutches out @ 0830 sharp.
Riders coming from the Lincoln area, I think Tom's itinerary
will work, just won't be going from the mortuary to the church.
Bring flags, hope to see you there to pay our final respects
to this fallen hero.
take care, get in touch if you have questions, bob
From Bob Swanson on Sunday, July 2nd, 2006
ALR members.
Thought I should forward this to you all. You may recall that Scott was stationed in Iraq when he got leave to come home for the birth of his twins. Daughter Bailey had a tough time and eventual heart surgery, now doing ok. At our meeting in Ashland, we voted to donate $100.00 from our bunker fund, and several of us visited Scott, his wife and daughter Bailey at the hospital before she had surgery and presented him with the check. I have talked with him several times since then, and each time he mentions how much our caring and prayers meant to them.
This came to me from Mike Smith,
RFTWOmaha@wmconnect.com.
take care, bob swanson
Need furniture
All; From Bob Swanson on Saturday, July 1st, 2006
As you may or may not know, (and several of you could care less) I am being
installed as Commander of American Legion Post 1. The installation ceremony
will be preformed by State Commander Jerry Landkamer, and Governor Heineman
has accepted our invitation and will give a brief address.
I hope you all know how proud I am to be associated with you people, and it
should go without saying that I would be proud to have you attend the
installation.
The installation will take place @ Post 1, 7811 Davenport, Omaha, Sunday
July 9, with Social Hour @ 1400 (2 PM), Installation ceremony @ 1500 (3 PM)
and dinner @ 1600 (4 PM).
Please RSVP to 391-6764 by July 6. (Marines, RSVP means call if your gonna
be there
take care, bob swanson
The Installation of Bob Swanson as Commander of American Legion Post # 1
Left - The festivities begin.
Left- The Governor is introduced by the Commander of Post #1.
The Ladies of the American Legion Auxiliary Post #1 are Installed first.
Our new Commander of Legion Post #1 is installed by the State Commander and finally Our Commander for Legion Post #1, Bob Swanson, gets to say a few words. CONGRATULATIONS AND GOOD LUCK, BOB. From Bob Swanson on Thursday, June 29th, 2006
Since this comes to me from the Nebraska Adjutant of the American Legion, I am
forwarding it.
take care, bob swanson
----- Original Message -----
From:
Nebraska American Legion
To:
American Legion
Sent: Thursday, June 29, 2006 1:28 PM
Subject: Possible Scam on VA
AMERICAN LEGION FAMILY,
THE FOLLOWING ALERT HAS BEEN FORWARDED BY OUR NATIONAL
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (IT) DIVISION.
ADJ. BOB
----------------
Below is a message from a reliable VA source. We don't
generally pass along scam "scares" as they come in nearly daily. "Phishing"
is a term that means the website the scam directs you to looks very much like
(if not identical) to a legitimate, official website. But since the VA is
concerned about this one and has informed us about it, we will pass it along:
I have
received an e-mail that indicates there is a phishing scam, in an attempt to
gain personal information. There have been increasing reports of users
receiving email from the address
abuse@vba.va.
This email is not a VA address and is fake and the link in the email is to a web site in Asia, so I have been informed. Please notify all users of this phishing scam and instruct them to delete this email if they receive it. DO NOT OPEN the email.
Kevin
Kevin Secor
Veterans Service Organizations Liaison
Office of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs
Washington, DC
202-273-4836
From Bob Swanson on Thursday, June 29th, 2006
Boy, I hate to send these out. I expect you have all seen the news, but
just to be sure that all of us know the price being paid daily by the heroes
that make up our military, I feel obligated to send notification every time
one from our area falls.
Army Sgt. 1st Class Terry Wallace of Bellevue died Tuesday from a roadside
bomb. He was fighting in Iraq.
I know you will keep the family in your prayers, and be prepared to attend
the service and pay your respects with the rest of us. I will keep everyone
posted as details become available. The Patriot Guard Riders will coordinate
the mission if invited by the family.
take care, bob swanson
From Bob Swanson on Wednesday, June 28th, 2006
Another brother has been killed in Iraq in the war on terrorism.
Army Spc. Jeremy Jones of Omaha was killed by a roadside bomb Tuesday
morning. One of the things that you learn in the military is the value of
comradeship. You learn early on that you can count on your comrades to be
there for you, and we will be there for Spc. Jones when he comes home. I hope
that everyone can be there to show our support to the family and pay our
respects for what this father of two has done for our country.
Spc. Jones graduated from Millard West HS in 1999.
I will send out details as soon as they are available. If you haven't
signed up with the Patriot Guard Riders, now would be an excellent time to do
so, go to patriotguard.org. They will coordinate the mission to attend his
service if the family requests it. Our own Cliff Leach is the State Captain
for the PGR and he is already engaged in planning the mission.
Prayers for the family will certainly help.
take care, bob swanson
If you don't have plans for Friday night, June 30, Post 1 has a new band coming in, Soundtrack. They specialize in 50s and 60s music, great oldies. $3.00 cover charge for the entertainment.
It's also HAMBURGER night at the Post and other sandwiches are available as
well. Food service starts at 5:30.
take care, bob swanson
From Bob Swanson on Tuesday, June 27th, 2006
Want to introduce our two newest members, Roy and Dorothy Dykes. They live
in Papillion, and Roy is also a new member of the American Legion. Welcome to
both of you.
A brief update on Bob "shoes" Benson. I stopped up there this afternoon,
he is grumpy, wants to go home. I would expect it will be another day or two
though, still has a lot of equipment attached to him. Having said that, he is
making a remarkable recovery as is Linda who was not hospitalized.
NO MORE! If you have stopped up to see Bob and Linda, please, please note
their injuries and resolve to ride even more carefully than usual. We tend to
get complacent and that won't work on a motorcycle. The thought is; NO MORE
accidents/injuries to our members!
FYI, wearing a Navy patch will offer protection not otherwise available.
(trust me).
Any suggestions for a weekend ride/event, advise Larry, Tom or Vince.
take care, bob swanson
From Bob Swanson on Sunday, June 25th, 2006
Two new members to welcome, Darryl Price and Laura Price. They live in
Bellevue and Darryl was in the Air Force. (I'm sure he wanted to be in the
Navy)
Minutes from the June 16, 2006 meeting:
Director Bob Swanson called the meeting to order with the Pledge of
Allegiance.
Chaplain Bob Brophy opened the meeting with prayer.
There were 28 members in attendance, all introduced themselves.
Bob Swanson discussed the Patriot Guard and explained its purpose.
Cliff Leach, NE. State Captain of the PGR talked about the funeral escorts
that have taken place and the escorts that are scheduled for the upcoming
weekend and the following week. He mentioned the importance of the funeral in
Beatrice, NE. (Tuesday, 3:00 PM) and the expected presence of the WBC group
from Topeka. Cliff addressed his commitment to the ALR and Bob Swanson
followed up with a reminder that attendance at funerals of military personnel
was our #1 priority as determined by majority vote at one of our recent ALR
Chapter meetings. Bob then provided more details of the Tuesday funeral in
Beatrice.
Bob Swanson announced the schedule for the PTSD Rally. Bob and Linda
Benson are assisting and asked for volunteers to help.
Other upcoming events include:
NE Burn Camp Poker Run, Sat. July 15 in Omaha, meet at 45th & Center
Streets.
Sturgis Aid Station, I-29 @ MO Valley exit, Aug. 4 & 5. (gas up and
pick up free goodies)
Sturgis Rally Aug. 7 - 13.
Vietnam Vets Rally in Fremont, Aug. 12
Biker Sunday Church Service @ Christ Community Church. I-680 & Dodge
in Old Mill area, Aug. 13 @ 10:30 AM. New motorcycles on display throughout
church followed by BBQ @ noon.
Cripple Creek, CO Veterans Rally, Aug. 17-20.
Tommy Craft run in Omaha is set for Aug. 20.
AMA Motorcycle show and swap meet in Davenport, IA., Aug. 31- Sept. 2
SD Vietnam Vets Rally, (camping only) Sept. 15-17.
Details on many other runs and events go to
www.omahabiker.com.
Bob asked for volunteers for an event committee. Squirrel (Larry), Vince
and Tom volunteered. Anyone having suggestions for events they feel we should
participate in, contact one of these people.
Bob Swanson will be the Post 1 Commander next year (installation 7/9).
Post 1 website is
http://amlegomahapost1.org. Check it out!!
Cliff Leach announced the presence of two guests, Darrel & Laura Price.
They are PGR participants and are considering joining the ALR. (see above)
Doc Holiday gave the Treasurer's report. There is a balance of $170.00 in
the Bunker Fund and $255.00 in the general account. Doc then discussed
patches. He will also look into the availability of ALR Certificates being
available through the American Legion Emblem Sales.
Bob gave an update on baby Bailey Weller. We had donated $100.00 to Scott
Weller to help with expenses while she was in the hospital. Her heart surgery
was successful, Scott does not have to go back to Iraq, and they expect to
take her home in a couple days. A big thank you to everyone who donated,
stopped in, emailed, and prayed for them.
Chaplain Brophy gave the closing prayer and the meeting was adjourned.
Next meeting will be held on July 21, 2006. Unless other arrangements are
made and members advised, the meeting will be at Post 1 @ 1900 (7 PM). Food
is served starting at 1730 (5:30 PM).
End of Minutes
Anyone that has comments or questions, please contact me.
A big thanks to Asst. Director Paul Johnson for providing these minutes of
our meeting.
take care, bob swanson
From Bob Swanson on Sunday, June 25th, 2006
In case you haven't heard, members Bob "shoes" Benson and Linda Benson were
involved in a motorcycle accident this past Friday and Bob is still in the
University Hospital. He has head injuries, rib injuries, road rash and I'm
not sure what else. He is doing better and is expected to be ok. Linda has
road rash as well, and was not hospitalized.
I understand that Vince & Kim picked up his bike and it is at his house.
Art and Squirrel have been up and I expect others, and I'm sure Bob would
appreciate your checking on him. (you know "shoes" will not be happy if they
won't let him smoke) I just got off the phone with Linda and she thought his
room # was 5843 in University Towers.
Your prayers will certainly be helpful.
take care, bob swanson
From Bob Swanson on Wednesday, June 21st, 2006
Any of you who don't know what to do this weekend, take a look at this.
I regret that I won't be able to make it, I am attending the State American
Legion annual meeting in North Platte and will be there all weekend.
AMVETS would welcome any ALR members who can make it and I would
certainly recommend your attendance.
later, bob swanson
Original Message -----
From:
Dennis
M. Sweeney
To:
Robert Swanson
Sent: Wednesday, June 21, 2006 10:03 PM
Subject: Dinner ride
AMVETS RIDERS will have a dinner ride June 24, 2006
STARTING location is VFW post 247 located at 3302
Leavenworth St. North West corner
WE will meet at 16:00 to 16:30
STARTING time 16:30
WE will ride to Blair VFW then to Fort Calhoun down
the old river road to the Surf Side club on the river.
Should be a good time.
Dennis M. Sweeney
From Bob Swanson on Wednesday, June 21st, 2006
OK, I know, late notice, etc. Tonight, about a dozen of us were out to the
send off and Captain Behn came up to me and advised that Troop A, First
Squadron of the 167th Cavalry will return to Lincoln tomorrow, scheduled to
arrive at 1615. She asked if we could have some riders there to greet them
and I said I would try. There were about 5 of us from tonight that said we
would try, and here's the deal.
Omaha area riders, meet at the bp, south of I-80 on Hwy 50 and leave at
1400 (2 PM). We should get to Lincoln in about an hour, and meet Lincoln area
riders at the motorcycle shop, I can't remember the name of it, across the
street from the Cracker Barrel on 27th, south of I-80.
Sorry about the lack of planning going into this, but a Welcome Home is
VERY important to the troops.
Hope to see you tomorrow.
take care, bob swanson
From Bob Swanson on Tuesday, June 20th, 2006
Sorry about the late notice. I just got home from the funeral service in
Beatrice, and was watching the rerun of the channel 6 news. They carried an
article about the 867th Quartermaster Battalion deploying to Iraq. They said
65 people. The send off is tomorrow, Wed. June 21 @ the Omaha North Armory,
11650 Rainwood Drive @ 1930 (7:30 PM)..
It is about 2 miles north of the Irvington Exit off of I 68 on the west
side of Hwy 133, before you get to Hwy 36.
If any of you can make it, I will see you there.
take care, bob swanson
From Bob Swanson on Saturday, June 17th, 2006
All:
Our FOUR (4) newest members are all from Omaha. They are Dan Jenkner, Erin (active duty AF) Jenkner, Chris McGrew, and Larry Voss. Welcome to all four. They were all at the meeting last night, although Chris and Larry had to leave after completing paper work.
We look forward to seeing them at the next ALR event.
take care,
bob swanson To my fellow ALR members:
The "uglies", Westboro Baptist Church, has announced their intention to be
at the funeral in Beatrice on Tuesday, June 20.
If at all possible, please join us in paying our respect to the family and
loved ones of this hero. We leave Omaha Tuesday morning @ 1100
from the bp station south of I-80 on Hwy 50.
We will meet Lincoln area riders at 1200 @ the Shell Gas Station 1200
Saltillo Rd., Roca, Ne. This is south of Lincoln on Jwy 77, on the East side
of the hwy. About 8 miles south of I-80 @ exit 397.
A number of riders plan to attend the funeral in Clarks, Ne. which is at
1000, also on Tuesday, June 20, and then make the ride down to Beatrice. If
you can make this, assemble at the CAL"S on Hwy 370, which is between 25th and
36th St., on the North side of 370, and be ready to leave @ 0615.
Darryl Price will be leading the group to Clarks.
Hope to see you there, BRING A FLAG!
take care, bob swanson
From Bob Swanson on Friday, June 16th, 2006
All:
A heads up regarding the funeral in Beatrice, Ne. on Tuesday, June 20,2006, @ 1500
(3 PM) of Army Pvt. Benjamin J. Slaven. This 22 year old warrior who
served with the Army Reserve 308th Transportation Co. out of Lincoln, was
killed in Iraq by an IED. Some of you will recall that we attended their
send-off ceremony in Lincoln last fall.
Omaha area riders will assemble at the bp station, south of I-80 on Hwy 50,
and leave @1100 (11:00 AM). We will meet up with
Lincoln area riders @ 1200 (12:00 noon) @ the Shell Gas Station @ 1200
Saltillo Rd., Roca, Ne. This is actually south of Lincoln on Hwy 77, on the
East side of the hwy. (about 8 miles south of I-80@ exit 397) From there, we
ride to Beatrice.
This is our way to show our appreciation to the family and community for
the sacrifice they made and our true respect and appreciation for the service
of this young man who gave all for our country.
Hope to see all of you at the bp station on Tuesday June 20. take care,
bob swanson From Bob Swanson on Tuesday, June 13th, 2006
OK, those of you that were with us Sunday know the problem with getting to
the Gretna American Legion where we had planned to have our meeting on Friday,
June 16. THE ROAD IS TORN UP! I did go out there Monday and did find a way
in, but I don't know what the road will be like by Fri., and if it rains .....
Therefore, we will meet at Post 1, 7811 Davenport @ 1900 (7
PM).
The good news is that food is served starting at 1730 (5:30 PM).
The menu is hot beef sandwich!!! Also available, potato
soup, hamburgers, ff or onion rings, fish sandwiches.
Meeting will start @1900 (7 PM) downstairs. Hope to see you all there.
bob swanson
From Bob Swanson on Monday, June 12th, 2006
The body of Pvt. Tim Madison of Bellevue, Ne. will arrive in Omaha at Eppley @
1700 (5 PM) on Tuesday, June 13, 2006. Escorts are needed for the
transportation from Eppley to Bellevue. Assemble @ 1630 (4:30 PM) in the
parking lot on the West side of Abbott Drive just across the street from the
Airport.
The following information pertains to the Funeral Service in Iowa Falls,
Iowa.
"RE: PO 2nd Class Jaime S. Jaenke; Iowa Falls, Iowa
The Escort Mission is still not set.
Visitation is Cancelled.
Honor Mission is tentatively set for June 14 @ 1330 (1:30 PM), @ United
Methodist Church @ 619 Main St. Iowa Falls, Ia. Rally Point, beginning @
1030 (10:30 AM) is at the Wal-Mart 840 S. Oak St (Hwy 65 S.)
Riders from the Omaha area leaving on June 14, meet @ OJ's right under the
Morman bridge at the 30th Street exit off of I-680. Leave there at 0700
(7:00 AM). We will ride I-80 to I-35 on the West side of Des Moines, and
take I-35 North to Hwy 20, East to S27, and North to Alden, then East on D
20 (old hwy 20) @ the Casey's. to Iowa Falls. Turn south onto hwy 65/Oak
St. to Wal Mart.
I hope our members will turn out for these events. Since we can't
be there with them, we need to be here for them.
Call or email me with any questions.
bob swanson 402-572-1917
From Bob Swanson on Sunday, June 11th, 2006
New member is Dennis "Mike" Sweeney. Mike is a Past State Commander of
AMVETS, and lives in Omaha. WELCOME MIKE!
Don't forget, our meeting is Friday June 16 @ 1900 (7 PM). Right now, we
are planning to have it at the Gretna American Legion Post. However, this
afternoon, some of us tried to stop by there and found the road closed so we
may end up changing the location. Stay tuned, READ YOUR EMAIL!
I will try to get out there tomorrow and find out what's happening. I will
advise ASAP.
Two other items to keep in mind, two deaths of area heroes. PO2 Jaime
Jaenke of Iowa Falls, IA, and Pvt. Tim Madison of Bellevue, NE. Right now, it
appears that PO@ Jaenke's funeral will be Wed., and Pvt. Madison's will be on
Thur. I will send out details that I become aware of, and hope others will be
able to attend these with me and of course, bring a flag.
take care, bob swanson
From Bob Swanson on Saturday, June 10th, 2006
Just wanted to give everyone a heads up regarding a pending funeral service
in Iowa Falls, IA.
Thirty-year-old Jaime Jaenke, a 2nd Class Navy medic was killed in Iraq by
a roadside bomb. She leaves a nine year old daughter.
Visitation Mission is Tuesday, June 13, 1600 (4 PM) to 1900 (7 PM). Honor
Mission is tentatively set for Wed., June 14 at 1400 (2 PM) First United
Methodist Church, 619 Main Street, Iowa Falls, IA.
You all know how I feel about medics. They deserve our utmost respect! I
plan to go up Wed morning and hope many of you can join me. As soon as dates
and times are confirmed, I will put out another email.
Nothing more I can say, bob swanson
From Bob Swanson on Friday, June 9th, 2006
All members: We have talked about this and now the time is near. The
Veterans PTSD Rally which has been put together by the Western Iowa ALR is
next weekend, June 16-18. The majority of the activity will take place on
Sat., June 17.
They have done a terrific job putting this event together, and haven't
asked us for much to help out. They would like some help on the primary day
of the event, Sat. Those of you who would be willing to volunteer a few hours
of your time on that weekend, please get in touch with me and I will forward
the names to Keith. Check out their website,
www.vptsdf.org.
The events section is still being worked on. (help on Fri and Sun would also
be appreciated)
As I mentioned, the primary activity will take place on Sat., June 17 and
that's where they want our help. There will be breakfast @ 0630 - 0830 @ the
Post in Glenwood, then a ride to Sidney for a special Flag Ceremony, then the
poker run starts at Walker HD with signup from 1000 to 1200. The rodeo takes
place 1300 - 1500, singing by Monica, chow (again-gotta love it) 1700 - 1845,
and a band at 2130. In between, there will be races at the motorplex.
Sunday there is a "mystery ride" @ 1000, back by 1500, for the bike
judging.
I know I have forgotten a lot of the events, check out the website, it will
be updated daily and will list events.
ASAP, we need to provide some names of people who will be willing to help
out so assignments can be made. I should mention that Bob and Linda Benson
have already volunteered to help with beans and cole slaw AND will help with
registration for the poker run.
These ALR people have really put a lot of work into this and you all know
what a good cause it is.
QUESTIONS?
take care, bob swanson
From Bob Swanson on Wednesday, June 7th, 2006
Ok, I had mentioned the poker run in Edgar, but another idea has
surfaced which might work better. This is the Ken Merchen Memorial Run. Some
of you may recall that the funeral of Ken Merchen was one of the first events
our Chapter participated in with a ride out to Grand Island with the CMA for
his service. Ken retired from the military and was killed in a motorcycle
accident around Lincoln within two weeks of his retirement. A true patriot
who didn't have an opportunity to enjoy the fruits of his tremendous
sacrifice. I understand the ride will be about 75 - 80 miles, starting with
registration between 1300 (1 PM) and 1400 (2 PM) at 7407 "L" St, Honda Cycle.
There will be a free-will donation which will benefit cancer research.
The ride will take a southern route to the Platte River and go through
South Bend/Ashland/Gretna. There will be hot-dogs available at sign-up but I
thought we could drop off at Around the Bend and have lunch/dinner there. The
ride should be in that area by about 1530 (3:30 PM) to 1600 (4 PM). (no fair
eating a hot dog at the start and then a big chicken fried steak at Around the
Bend)
Lets plan to meet at the pb station south of I-80 on Hwy 50 (exit 440) @
1300 (1 PM). Tom, would you put out something telling Lincoln area riders
where to meet and when in order to get up to exit 440 by 1300 (1 PM).
Don't forget, our next meeting is Friday, June 16, @ 1900 (7 PM) at the
Gretna American Legion Post. They will be serving chicken parmagian (how in
the world do you spell that???)
From Bob Swanson on Friday, June 4th, 2006
ALL: I'm not sure if all of you received this or not, but at the risk of
duplicating your email, I felt obligated to forward it. This is a member of
StratCom in Bellevue who will have a Memorial Service tomorrow, Monday, and
funeral service on Tuesday.
All of you who are able to attend are strongly encouraged to do so. The
family really needs to see the support that veteran's organizations and our
supporters provide when a hero dies. SSGT Grable took an oath to defend our
country, and people like him have to be recognized at their passing. One way
we can do this is to show up at their final services and pay our respect.
If you can't make it to both the Memorial Service and the funeral, try to
make it to one or the other.
(See Patriot Guard Page.) From Bob Swanson on Friday, June 2nd, 2006
Yes, I'm back!!!
Sorry I couldn't be with all of you on Memorial Day; DC was a SUPER event!
Remind me to tell you about the lady who came up to me in Missouri and asked
me to take a bracelet to the Wall! It served to remind me that veterans are a
special group of people, and the families and supporters are certainly
deserving of our thanks for all they have done and continue to do for us.
On Sunday, we have an opportunity to show our appreciation by participating in
a parade in Valparaiso, Ne. The parade is sponsored by the American Legion
Post #371 there and they are looking forward to our participation. Should be
a great day for a ride.
Here's the plan: The Omaha area riders will meet at the bp station, south of
I-80 & Hwy 50 (exit 440) and be ready to leave at 1300 (1 PM). We will meet
the Lincoln riders at the Cracker Barrel in Lincoln @ the 27th street exit off
of I-80 @ about 1330 (1:30 PM). DON'T EAT UNTIL WE GET TO LINCOLN.
CRACKER BARREL HAS GREAT FOOD! (Just ask Tom)We should leave Lincoln
@ about 1500 (3 PM) to get into Valparaiso @ about 1600 (4 PM). The parade
starts at 1700 (5 PM) but they asked that we get there at least 45 minutes
early.
Hope we can have a good turn out for this event to show our support for our
fellow legionnaires and their families.
See you Sunday, bob swanson
May 20th, 2006
OK, this is my last, last email before leaving for DC.
Thanks to all for the great turnout at the meeting last night. You all make
up a super group of people. We had real good discussions on issues and I
think everyone understands what we are all about.
(my apologies to Art for crashing into his bike)
take care all, bob swanson
----- Original Message -----
From:
tomk
To:
Anthony Longo
Cc:
Robert Swanson
Sent: Saturday, May 20, 2006 1:31 AM
Subject: Fw: Rolling Thunder/DC
Bob, please also forward to any new members in
case they would be interested in going to DC
We will depart from Nebraska City on
Wednesday May24th. at 8:30 AM , Conoco Station at Hwy. # 29.
See the attachment for your motel reservations. We now have about
5 Riders, and a possible chase vehicle.
We will ride weather permitting thru Skyline
Drive at Shenandoah National Park prior to arriving Friday evening in
DC.
Saturday we will attend the ALR Wreath
Ceremony and Changing of the Guard at Arlington Cemetery. This year the
Des Moines ALR Riders are doing the honors. Later that day we will
visit The Wall and other Monuments. Saturday afternoon for those
interested we will ride to Georgetown to sightsee and also to the area
Harley dealer for those that want HOG event pins. Saturday evening is
usually a multi-state ALR BBQ. BYOB/dogs/burgers
Sunday morning is the line up at the
Pentagon lot for the Parade( for those who wish to participate) starting
at Noon thru DC and ending at The Vietnam Wall Monuments for Addresses
and Ceremonies.
We depart for home Monday Morning. Monday at
3:00PM is the National Moment of Silence. Let me know if you plan to
join us.
Thank You ,
Tom Kennedy E-Mail sent on May 20th, 2006
For those of you who didn't make the meeting Fri. night, we voted to
make a donation of $100.00 to Scott Weller, the soldier who is home for Iraq
for his daughter's surgery on Monday. He has 3 other children, and we thought
this could be used for gas back and forth to the hosp., or for meals while
here. I have been trying to find a time when he would be at the hospital so
we could stop by and see him and give him the check, and we will try tomorrow,
Sunday at 1300 (1 PM) Any of you who can make it up to the Children's
Hospital which is about 82nd & Dodge, I think it would be good for him to know
that he has our prayers and support.
The twins, a boy and a girl were born on the 11th, and Bailey was born
with a hole in her heart.
Any members can show up.
take care, bob swanson
E-mail sent on May 17th, 2006
Well, for a while at least. I am leaving Monday morning on the RFTW
and will be out of Omaha for a couple weeks. I plan to be back in time for
the parade in Valparaiso on June 4.
Here's the schedule for that parade:
Omaha riders, assemble and be ready to leave the bp station, south of
I-80 @ Hwy 50 @ 1300 hours (1 PM).
Meet the Lincoln riders at the Cracker Barrel in Lincoln @ the 27th
street exit off of I-80 (exit 403) for lunch.
Leave Lincoln @ 1500 (3 PM) to arrive in Valparaiso @ about 1600 (4
PM). Parade starts @ 1700 (5 PM).
DON'T FORGET THE MEETING THIS FRIDAY, MAY 19 AT THE ASHLAND
LEGION POST @ 1900 (7PM) OMAHA RIDERS BE READY TO LEAVE THE BP STATION,
I-80 & HWY 50 (EXIT 440) @ 1700 (5 PM)-RIDE TO AROUND THE BEND FOR DINNER,
THEN TO ASHLAND
take care, bob swanson
(From the Editor: I would like to apologize for the late postings. I have been out of town from May 17th, 2006 to May 22nd, 2006.) This e-mail was sent to me by a friend and it sure makes sense. (R.W.M.)
ASLEEP AT THE WHEEL. This from Bob Swanson on 5/5/2006
I have fallen behind in introducing new members and better get caught
up!!!
From Lincoln, Andy Jensen and Dave Kramer and from Bellevue, Tommy
Thompson. Welcome to all three of you, you join a very elite group and we are
proud to have you as a member.
See you all this weekend.
bob swanson
This from Bob Swanson on 5/4/2006
Any of you who plan to go on the RFTW to DC, lets meet Sunday, May 7,
1230, at Around the Bend, which as you know is the South Bend exit, #426 to
discuss the trip.
You all know that one of our members and a Navy hero, Shane Osborn is
running for State Treasure this year. The election is Tuesday, May 9, and
anyone who wants to help out, be at the Crossroads at 1600 (4 PM) on Tuesday.
We will hold signs during the rush hour encouraging voting for Shane. In my
humble (like I could be humble) opinion, Shane is not only well qualified for
the job by reason of his education and work experience, he was also awarded
the Distinguished Flying Cross for his actions saving his crew of 23. Whether
you make it to the Xroads or not, when you go to the polls vote for Shane.
See you all, Sat., some of you Sunday, all of you Monday, and some of
you Tuesday.
any ?s, take care bob swanson
This from Bob Swanson on 5/4/2006
Rod Colglazier, ALR member in Glenwood, Ia., PGR supporter, veteran,
passed away this past Tuesday from cancer. There will be a memorial service
with full military honors for him on Monday, 5/8, at the Dodge Memorial
Church, 32nd and C Street, in Council Bluffs @ 1100.
We will be joining the PGR and Glenwood ALR for this mission at the NW
corner of the Mid America Center parking lot. The exit for the Mid America
Center is the 24th Street exit off I-29/80. Muster time there is 1000.
We will assemble at the P66 station, 60th & F, which is about 1 block
south of I-80 at the 60th street exit. Be ready to leave there by 0930. Ride
with your passenger pegs down so Rod can ride with us in spirit.
Hope to see you Sat. at Dillons, and Monday at the memorial ride for
Rod.
take care, bob swanson
This from Bob Swanson on 5/3/2006
Looks to me like the best thing going this weekend will be the poker run
out of Dillon HD in Omaha. It is for Camp Quality, kids with cancer. Sign up
begins at 1030, if you want to ride as a group, lets plan to leave Dillons at
1100.
Hope to see you there.
take care, bob swanson
This from Bob Swanson on 5/1/2006
Just in case you might have missed it in the Omaha World Herald this
weekend, the Omaha Police Dept. has announced that they are going to be
cracking down on non-DOD motorcycle helmets. A friend advised me that he got
picked up on a I-80 last year by the Highway Patrol for an unapproved helmet,
total almost $200.00!!!
Next meeting May 19 at the Ashland Legion Post.
More later about new members
This from Bob Swanson on 4/27/2006
The number 77 has to be a lucky one, and as far as membership, #77 is
Don Croston of Bellevue. Glad to have you with us Don.
Just saw the weather for this weekend, and they are saying 55 and
possible rain on Sat. and Sunday. If the weather doesn't appeal to you for
riding a bike, paying your respects to our fallen comrades and to the Iraqi
veterans can be done effectively after arrival by car. Of course wear your
colors and you Air Force types can bring your umbrella. (Navy people like
water)
Hope to see you all Sat.
take care, bob swanson
Well, it is Nebraska! Right now, they are saying it will be a "nasty" weekend. This then presents an opportunity for us to attend these events and bring bigger flags. If you show up at the previously designated assembly spots, we can carpool, otherwise hope you meet up at the events.
In Weeping Water, we can still participate in the parade carrying
flags.
Any questions?
take care, bob swanson
This from Bob Swanson on 4/26/2006
Don't forget, this Fri. night, we are all invited to visit the American
Legion Post in Ashland, at 1730 (5:30 PM) to toast the (re)marriage
of Jim and Linda Turner. Both are ALR members and super people. Hope to see
you there.
(they have requested "no gifts", so I'm keeping this new Harley!)
bob swanson
Couple of things this Sat., April 29 that are very deserving of our
participation.
!. At noon, Vietnam Veterans Memorial Service @ Clemmons Park
Arboretum 16th and Garden City Road, Fremont, NE. This memorial service is
dedicated to those veterans of Dodge County who served and died for their
country and the cause of freedom in Southeast Asia. The service will
include a dedication of the "Reflections" gazebo which will house name
etchings, taken from the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in DC, of the
14 Dodge County servicemen who died in Vietnam.
I think we should attend this dedication and we will meet at Dillon
HD, 174th & Maple and be ready to leave at 1030 (10:30 AM).
2. The second event is just as important as the first. It is the
Iraqi Freedom Hero's Appreciation in Weeping Water, Ne. There is a parade @
1700 (5:00 PM) that our Chapter has been asked to participate in, and BBQ
and Dance following. The American Legion Post 237 has agreed to open at
1500 (3:00 PM) on Sat., so bikes can assemble on the side street and at
about 1645 (4:45 PM) we will leave and ride the 2 miles to the Cass County
Fairgrounds and join the parade.
I think we should attend this dedication also, and we will meet at the
bp station, south of I-80 on Hwy 50 and leave there at 1430 (2:30 PM).
Our Lincoln area riders can meet up with us at either of these two
assembly spots, or at the events. Your participation is a big reason our
Chapter is being asked to participate in so many events.
Paying our respects to fallen heroes and veterans is a GREAT way to
spend a Sat. This is what American Legion Riders do, and you all know how
much our presence is appreciated by the families of these service members.
The fact that we feel good about doing it is just an added benefit.
By the way, I knew it would happen, just because of the kind of people
you all are. Someone found the missing Charter Member patch. Thanks again
to all of you for being part of our Chapter!!!
take care, bob swanson
This from Bob Swanson on 4/25/2006
Asst. Director Paul Johnson has again done an outstanding job of putting
together the minutes from our meeting last Friday, April 21.
1. Director Bob Swanson called the meeting to order with the Pledge of
Allegiance.
2. Chaplain Bob Brophy opened the meeting with prayer.
3. There were 34 members in attendance, all introduced themselves.
4. Bob Swanson presented a Certificate from the US Air Force with an
American flag that flew on a combat search and rescue mission on Dec. 25,
2005, from Kandahar Army Airfield. The flag was sent to us from Richard E.
Mills, a Nebraska ALR member who is currently in Afghanistan. The flag and
Certificate will be framed and hung in the Post.
5. Doc Holiday gave the Treasurer's report that there is a balance of
$177.01 in the Chapter General Fund account and $140.00 in the Bunker Fund.
6. Asst. Director Paul Johnson introduced Ken Korkow from CBMC Omaha, a
recipient of the Navy Cross in Viet Nam. Ken received a warm welcome from the
Chapter. He announced details of the upcoming Viet Nam Veterans Welcome Home
Celebration and Rally in Pierre, SD, Sept. 15 - 17, 2006. A wide variety of
prizes to be given away, the Beach Boys and CCR will be in concert and a free
Sunday morning breakfast before the ride home is available for all who
attend. It was suggested that an ad for the event be placed in the American
Legion Magazine. Additional information can be found on the internet at
www.sdvietnamwarmemorial.com. The Chapter can register its interest in
attending as a group once a final estimated head count is determined.
7. Director Bob Swanson announced many upcoming events including next
Sat., April 29. In Weeping Water, the Iraqi Freedom Hero's Appreciation
BBQ, a dedication of a veterans Gazebo in Fremont and the Ken Merchan Memorial
Ride. All three are on Sat. April 29. More information on these events can
be found on the internet at
www.omahabiker.com.
8. Based on the numerous events coming up this spring and summer,
Director Bob Swanson moved that the Chapter prioritize our attendance at these
events. It was decided that the priority be as follows:
1. Military funerals
2. Welcome Home escorts and celebrations (Hails)
3. Send-Offs (Farewells)
4. Dedications
5. Poker Runs and other fun runs
9. It was announced that May 17 -20, volunteers are needed for the
Special Olympics to be held at Creighton University. All events need to be
supported including the weight and power lifting. Any member who can
volunteer, can show up there or contact Ed or Cecelia Reinhardt @ana0976@aol.com
or
mavrck0976@aol.com. This is a great cause and your help would be
appreciated.
10 Member Warren Sheehy handed out a publication from the National
Coalition of Motorcyclists. He discussed how people can get involved and the
value of the organization. Get in touch with Warren @
Weshey@msn.com.
11. Chaplain Brophy gave a closing prayer and the meeting was
adjourned.
A group ride to the Gretna American Legion Post followed. A Retention
Stand-Down took place (that's Navy intel talk for "Party") Good times were
had by all. Bob Benson will hereafter be known as "shoes", for wearing his
bowling shoes with chaps!!
Next meeting will be held on May 19,2006. If possible, it will be at
the Ashland, Ne Post. Details later.
Upcoming events in May include the Yellow Ribbon Run on May 20 (A GREAT
RIDE, WE NEED A GREAT TURNOUT), and of course Rolling Thunder in Washington,
DC May 27 and 29.
Your feedback is always appreciated.
take care, bob swanson
This from Bob Swanson on 4/18/2006
FINAL REMINDER (maybe) about the meeting this
Friday, April 21, 1900 (7 PM) @ Post 1, 7811 Davenport, Omaha. Don't forget
that dinner is available beginning at 1730 (5:30 PM). This Friday, the
special is chicken fried steak (white gravy!!). After the meeting, we can
ride out to Gretna or Ashland to visit the Legion Post.
1. Pledge of Allegiance.
2. Opening prayer.
3. Introductions: Director, Asst. Dir., Sect.,
Tres., Road Cpt. individuals in attendance, NEW MEMBERS.
4. Presentation regarding South Dakota Vietnam
Vets. Memorial. 15 to 20 minutes.
5. Sect. & Treas. rpts. (patches)
6. One year of our Chapter. Charter Membership
ends. Meetings in Lincoln every third or fourth?
7. Flag and Cert. from one of our members in
Afghanistan.
8. Hand signals for group riding.
9. Events: tomorrow to Seward; Newton Ks. ALR
run; more rides, local or long distance???
10. Things I forgot and other matters brought up
by members.
11. Closing prayer.
This from Bob Swanson on April 16th, 2006
All: Two members from St. Paul have rejoined, we can all
look forward to meeting up with Cory and Mike Rowley and from Pierce, Patricia
Fisher. Glad you are with us and hope we have a chance to ride with all
members soon.
Since I used the word "soon", that reminds me that our
next meeting is this Friday, April 21, @ 1900 hours (7:00 PM) @ Post 1, 7811
Davenport. Don't forget, food is served starting at 1730 (5:30 PM), and the
special for the 21st is Chicken Fried Steak. They also have sandwiches,
salads and soup.
Assistant Director Paul Johnson was contacted by a man
who wants to come to the meeting and give us the run down on a dedication of a
Vietnam War Memorial to be placed in Pierre, SD in Sept. 2006. I suggested we
would give him 15 - 20 minutes at the beginning of the meeting. After the
meeting, we can either ride to the Legion in Ashland or Gretna, just to pay
our respects.
On another note, there is a real good article in the
Parade section of the OWH today about returning warriors. It's the kind of
article that gets you thinking. It reminded me that we need to be there for
these people when they come home, and after they have been home for a while.
I think it is real important for all of us to encourage all veterans to join
the American Legion where they can talk with other vets when they need to. We
are doing things differently this time, and we can make things better for
them. They deserve the same kind of respect and appreciation for their
sacrifice that all of you do.
On Sat. April 22, those of you who plan to attend the
poker run in Seward, here's a plan. Omaha riders, lets meet at the bp south
of I-80 on Hwy 50 (144th) be ready to leave @ 0930 (9:30 AM). We will stop in
Lincoln and meet the Lincoln area riders at the parking lot across the street
south of the Cracker barrel, 27th street exit, #403. It is south of I-80. Be
ready to leave there for Seward at 1030, (10:30 AM). Hope the St Paul guys
can make it to Seward.
It's not just another poker run, it is hosted by the
American Veterans MC and Chrome Divas. Proceeds go towards Veterans Benefits
and Friendship Home. Sign up at Vicke's Bar and Grill, 629 Jackson Ave in
Seward. (I checked, you don't have
to wear a Navy patch, but they do look nice and you will feel better if you
do)
Hope to see you all Friday.
take care, bob
This from Bob Swanson on April 10th, 2006
I received this from the Nebraska Adjutant of the
American Legion and thought it deserved to be passed on to all of you.
take care, bob swanson
The National Personnel
Records Center (NPRC) has provided the following website for veterans to gain
access to their DD-214s online:
http://vetrecs.archives.gov/
This may be particularly helpful when a veteran needs a copy of his/her DD-214
for employment purposes.
NPRC is working to
make it easier for veterans with computers and Internet access to obtain
copies of documents from their military files. Military veterans and the next
of kin of deceased former military members may now use a new online military
personnel records system to request documents.
Other individuals with a need for documents must still
complete the Standard Form 180, which can be downloaded from the online web
site. Because the requester will be asked to supply all information essential
for NPRC to process the request, delays that normally occur when NPRC has to
ask veterans for additional information will be minimized. The new web-based
application was designed to provide better service on these requests by
eliminating the records center’s mailroom processing time.
This from Bob Swanson on April 5th, 2006
Hey, anyone else plan to go to Lincoln this Sat for the Dealer Fun Run from
Frontier HD? Sign up is between 1000 and 1130 hours (10:00 AM to 11:30 AM).
I plan to go down, but not sure I will make it to Lincoln in time to join the
Lincoln riders for breakfast. If you want to meet up with the Lincoln people,
they are getting together at 0900 (9:00 AM) @ T & R Garden Restaurant, on
Cornhusker Hwy, at the Howard Johnson Motel. I will try to make it for
breakfast, but just not sure.
And of course, don't forget about Sunday, leave from P 66 @ 6oth & F @0930
hours (9:30 AM).
take care, bob swanson
This from Bob Swanson, ALR on April, 3rd, 2006 Finally, a nice day for a ride??? We will know Sunday morning.
I had mentioned earlier the Second Annual Sgt. James C.
Kearney III Memorial Motorcycle Run this Sunday. The event is to honor and
pay our respects to the son of an Iowa ALR member who gave his life in the war
on terrorism on 11/1/2004.
The event is in Emerson, Iowa, and we will meet the
Lincoln area riders in Glenwood, Ia. and be ready to leave there at 0930 hours
((9:30 AM). We will be in Emerson at about 1000 hours (10:00). From there,
the riders will travel to the Emerson Cemetery to pay respects and honor the
fallen comrade, and return to Emerson for a chili feed. Proceeds go to a
scholarship fund set up in this hero's name.
Omaha riders, lets meet at the service station (I think
it is a Phillips 66) just south of I-80 off of 60th street. It's about a
block south of the interstate and sets in the northeast corner of the
intersection at F. We should be ready to leave there by 0830 hours
(8:30 AM).
Lincoln area riders, either Tom or Jim will be making
your meeting arrangements and we will meet up in Glenwood.
Any questions, get in touch.
bob swanson
This from Tom Kennedy on April 3rd, 2006
Lincoln ALR riders.
Sunday April 9th. Depart Lincoln by 8:15am from Village Inn Restaurant at
65th. & "O" Street. Arrive earlier if you plan to have breakfast.
Ride Rt 34 East to
Glenwood Iowa. Meet Omaha ALR at 9:30am in Glenwood.
See Bob's email.
I will not be able to
attend this ride and ask Jim to fill in as Road captain.
Ride Safe, Tom (RR)
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