Morgantown was rolling with thunder Saturday as show bikes found their way up the mountain to American Legion Post 537 on Twin Valley Road for the 3rd Annual Bike Show and Pig Roast.
The weather was beautiful; the people were plentiful and the food did not disappoint. The front of the stage was lined with trophies and awards while three different bands donated their time playing to an eager crowd.
Rich Williams, Assistant Road Captain and a principal player in pulling it all together for the Legion Riders, was busy organizing and moving people for this fundraiser to benefit Valor Clinic Foundation, a 501(c)3 public charity focused on veterans issues, http://www.valorclinic.org/ on Face Book at Valor Clinic Foundation.
To encounter Sgt. Major Mark Baylis is an experience. An imposing buff figure, 26 year retired Army Green Beret, he commands attention. Here in front of me was the man with the vision.
“In April 2003 my mission was to find Saddam Hussein. Orders took us to a three star Iraqi General’s house. I smashed down a solid teak door and fell into the room breaking my back. Recovering enough to escape it was a nightmare, to receive orders to return home wounded,” he started his story.
“Understanding the federal paper work and getting benefits was the 2nd nightmare. I was fortunate to take the big book and take it one step at a time. I saw several guys still suffering who didn’t have a clue and needed help to get their benefits to get on the road to recovery. The word got out – see that guy, he can help you. I would say ‘Come by the house’!” he continued.
One day, while sitting in church, he saw people preparing food for the homeless and realized that these veterans’ health related conditions affected their emotions, welfare, divorce, suicide, unemployment, homelessness, and that was just the start.
That day was the birth of Valor Clinic, and God sent him the people to unravel the needs and find the way forward. It would not be easy but as Baylis says, “We can change this. We can fix this!”
They are helping men to build a life plan and let go of the war. They got your six.
American Legion Post 537 was to play a large role in the remodeling of the Jonas Hotel in Brodheadsville, PA, thanks to several fundraisers that earned $11,500 and helping hands from Post 537 for HVAC work along with other donors, and the doors opened.
President James Godfrey explained, “In order to be a Legion Rider you must first be either a Legion Member who has served in war, a son or grandson of a veteran, or an Auxiliary member.”
“This Bike Show and Pig Roast is to support Valor Clinic, a treatment facility for homeless vets and those who suffer Post Traumatic Stress Disorder has been growing for three years. That is one place where the Legion Riders real work and mission is done,” he continued.
He explained since 1990 the USA has been in a constant state of war. They are not a biker’s club, rather a veteran’s organization that wants to attract other veterans to share their love of riding. Both he and his wife Donna, the Rider’s secretary, are active members.
“It is disappointing the way men and women treat other men and women during war,” Godfrey lamented. “After serving in Desert Storm on the USS Nimitz I wanted to separate as much as possible from the memories. Then I met a buddy and started to volunteer at the Legion. I realized I was not alone and everyone needs help.”
Paul Morrison, Legion Rider Road Captain, spoke up, “It’s a beautiful day. It’s an excellent turn out with so many sponsors and donors. Terre Hill Trophies from Kenhorst donated two big trophies, plus we have other trophies and awards. There are 24 vendors, food, crafts, a Chinese auction, exhibits and a multitude of bikes and the pig.”
“I wasn’t there, but I still care,” Morrison said. “I appreciate all the help from the Legion, the Riders, and the Auxiliary. I’ve always loved America. I love my freedom and appreciate what the veterans have done. I never understood it all until I joined the club.”
A German Shepard service dog in training Roxy, in full U.S. Marines uniform, was present and attracting attention. The Iron Warriors founded by 11 year old Alexander Hummel had a booth explaining the foundation’s help in getting service dogs for veterans.
Tim Wright was there with his traveling wall dedicated to the fallen heroes both human and canines from the Mid-Atlantic States who died in Vietnam, Iraq and Afghanistan.
“I am 33 years retired from the Army, Hooah! I served in Vietnam and Desert Storm. I got out right before 9-11-2001. I was a canine handler in Nam. I wouldn’t trade my experience for anything. I would do it all again,” said Wright.
“I repelled out of helicopters with dogs strapped to my chest. They were fully trained to attack and help our men out of a fight and work our way back to the clear. All orders were given by hand signals. My short haired shepherd was named Dog. He retired after nine years service,” said Wright.
As people danced and visited, the band played and the stories continued. There were veterans from several states present and gleaming unique motorcycles waiting to be judged.
Inside sat Sgt. Leonard Delong of Green Hills a 23 1/2 year retired Marine. In August he will celebrate his 90th birthday. His combat days include World War II, occupying Japan, the Korean Land Invasion of Inchon, and two tours in Vietnam serving in the front lines. He has his own chair, his own parking spot and is there ever Wednesday and Saturday.
“These people treat me like a million dollars. At the Marine Corp. Birthday party I will get to cut the cake,” said Sarge, secure in the Legion.
Commander Roger Jacobs and his wife, Auxiliary historian Linda Rogers, kept things running smoothly as people came and went.
“Popcycle,” Neil Wagner, a Rolling Thunder member, was getting ready to hit the road to serve as VIP escort to The Gold Star Mother, whose son SPC Dustin J. Harris was killed in action. Five bus loads along with fire engines and state police on their way to Washington, D.C.
Ever busy they are already planning Veteran’s Appreciation Day on June 14.
Thank you for your service to the men and women who have and still faithfully serve the USA.
