CARROLL, IA — A wave of flags, cheers and roadside support gave American Legion Riders a memorable sendoff through Carroll County on Sunday. The group said the welcome was one of the most heartwarming parts of its 20th annual Legacy Motorcycle Run, a five-day, 1,000-mile trip to Fort Knox, Kentucky.
About 250 motorcyclists took part in the ride, which began in Lincoln, Nebraska, and drew support from towns along the way. Organizers said the run is focused on raising money for the American Legion Veterans and Children’s Foundation, with this year’s effort moving closer to a $1 million goal.
A welcome that riders said they will remember
Jake Newman, the ride’s public affairs officer, said the Carroll County reception stood out even among many years on the road. He said people lined Highway 30, and riders noticed the support from the moment they entered the county until they left. Several riders, he said, were emotional as they passed the crowds.
Newman, who served in the Army and is on his sixth Legacy Run, said the turnout reflected the spirit of “Iowa Nice.” He said the riders deeply appreciated every person who waved, whether a few people or a large group gathered together. For many participants, he added, that kind of encouragement gives the long ride a personal meaning beyond the miles.
The caravan stopped in Carroll around 3 p.m. Sunday, a time Newman said likely helped bring out more people. He also said other communities along the route were supportive, but Carroll County set a high bar with its strong local response.
Local volunteers helped turn the ride into a community event
In Carroll, the welcome included the Carroll American Legion honor guard and a large American flag stretched above the street near Towers’ Legendary Harley-Davidson. Legion members also placed 130 American flags on poles along Highway 30, creating an avenue of red, white and blue for the riders.
Scout Troop 105 and Cub Scout Pack 113 joined in as well, handing out small American flags to spectators. Newman said that local effort matters because ride leaders cannot organize every stop alone. He said community members who know the roads, businesses and neighbors are often the ones who make the visit feel special and smooth.
That local help was recognized with thank-you presentations at Sparky’s One Stop Eastside, where the riders stopped to refuel. Newman said supporting 250 motorcycles takes real effort from businesses and residents alike, and the riders wanted to show their appreciation.
Why the fundraising ride matters to veterans and families
The Legacy Run supports the Veterans and Children’s Foundation, which helps train veterans service officers and provide grants for military and veteran families with children at home. Those grants can help with food, housing, utilities and clothing during difficult times.
Newman said the ride had raised a little over $400,700 as of Tuesday morning, with the group hoping to reach $1 million. He said last year’s run finished just under that mark at about $900,000, and this year’s total was running ahead of pace.
In Carroll, District 8 Iowa American Legion presented a ceremonial check for $11,753.63. Newman said the group has now spent three years supporting the Veterans and Children’s Foundation after earlier fundraising helped make the American Legion Legacy Fund self-sustaining for years to come.
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