Riding for Those Who Serve: American Legion Riders Raise Over $2,700 for Fund 85

By Pamela J. French

The Middle River American Legion Post 444 Legion Riders took to the road on August 29, 2026, for a one-day fundraising ride benefiting Fund 85, an initiative providing emergency financial assistance to veterans and their families facing crisis situations.

Among their stops was the Bagley American Legion Irvin Blix Post 16, where the riders were welcomed by Post Commander Jeremy Swenson.

According to ride spokesperson Trevor Berg, 24 motorcycles participated in the approximately 240-mile journey, raising more than $2,700 for the cause.

Berg reported that Bagley American Legion Post 16 contributed an impressive $1,420, accounting for approximately half of the total funds raised during the ride.

The Gonvick American Legion Post 304 and Grygla American Legion Post 162 also demonstrated their commitment through generous donations.

What Is Fund 85?

Fund 85, the Minnesota Veterans Assistance Fund, is an emergency financial assistance program administered by the Minnesota American Legion Foundation.

The program provides direct, non-repayable financial grants to eligible Minnesota veterans and their families experiencing hardship during times of crisis.

Its mission is simple yet profound: to provide timely assistance when those who have served, and their families, need it most.

The August 29 ride was more than a fundraising event. It was a demonstration of camaraderie, compassion, and a shared commitment to supporting our military community.

Through the dedication of the Middle River Legion Riders and the generosity of participating American Legion posts, communities came together with a common purpose: ensuring that those who serve and those who have served are not forgotten when hardship strikes.

For more information about Fund 85, search for “Minnesota American Legion Fund 85.”