FRANK LEWIS

PDT Staff Writer

American Legion Riders Portsmouth 433 will stage a 911 Freedom Ride to benefit the family support group of members of the 1191st Engineer Company in Portsmouth this Saturday (Sept. 8) at the National Guard Armory on Coles Boulevard.

“They’re not allowed to go out and solicit donations, and when we found out about it we decided to put on a run for them,” Bob Neal of the American Legion Riders said. “So we’re going to let them have the money to help their soldiers out. These are our boys too. I served in that unit for over 28 years.”

Neal said there is especially a need when the soldiers from that unit are deployed overseas leaving families with needs.

“They have sent care packages and different things like that,” Neal said.

Neal said there is most likely going to be an open house where children can take a tour of the Coles Boulevard facility.

Signups will begin at 11 a.m. and end at 1 p.m. Saturday. The ride will leave the armory at 1:30 p.m. The price to participate is $10 for a single rider and $15 double.

“I know the Bikers For Christ will be there and I’m hoping a lot of the other clubs too,” Neal said.

Neal said 1191st commander Lieutenant Evan Washburn said members of the unit who are on duty will also be permitted to take part in the ride.

Frank Lewis may be reached at 740-353-3101, ext. 232, or at flewis@heartlandpublications.com