The Impact of American Legion Post 155

Rainy days and rummage sales don't mix, which is why amidst the unexpected wet weather that recently hit the Inland Empire, the American Legion Riders at Post 155 were not able to carry out their planned fundraising event on Aug. 3. However, the newly chartered Riders have much more in store for the rest of this year and years to come. The American Legion Riders of Colton, a local chapter of the larger national veterans organization, has been dedicated to improving the lives of veterans as well as the community at large for several years. Members support those who have given their lives to service and are themselves veterans or children of veterans. Holding dinners, gatherings and fundraisers for previous military members is just a small part of what these patriots do. They go out of their way to contribute as much as they can. President of the post, Rick Quintana explains, "We donate our time and money to veterans and help veterans and anyone in the community that needs [us to]." For example, as Quintana went on to elaborate, although funds are limited, the post is planning on giving out scholarships to two local high schools next year. The scholarship will be named after a fallen member and friend, José Garcia. Almost as important to the organization's identity as the aid it provides to the community and the charitable work it executes is the motorcycle riding so closely associated with the American Legion. Secretary John Crabb commented, "[Riding] is really important because everyone recognizes the veterans. This helps advertise and get new members in." The post is always looking to expand membership and welcome more into their Legion family. The group of riders already consists of American warriors from Vietnam all the way to recent conflicts. Upcoming events that the post will hold include a veteran's picnic, a New Year's Eve Dance and a Christmas toy drive for the children at Loma Linda Children's Hospital. For more information, call (909) 825-2985 or visit the post on 1401 Veterans Way.