Hundreds of motorcyclists will take the concept of "veterans helping veterans" to a new level this week when The American Legion Riders kick off the fourth annual American Legion Legacy Run to raise money for the American Legion Legacy Scholarship program.

The riders, who are wartime veterans themselves, will travel 1,200 miles to make possible a college education for the children of those who have died defending our freedoms since September 11, 2001.

National Commander of The American Legion David K. Rehbein will lead the American Legion Legacy Run which will begin in Indianapolis and run through seven states to the 91st Annual National American Legion Convention in Louisville that convenes on August 25.

According to Rehbein, the American Legion Legacy Scholarship program is one way for all Americans to show their deep appreciation for those who paid the ultimate price for freedom.

"As an unfortunate consequence of America's war on terror, many children of our military personnel are now members of single-parent families," he said. "In most cases, this also means their chances to attend college have greatly diminished. Children of our heroes who die on active duty are entitled to receive some money toward a college education, but it is not enough."

The Riders' goal is to raise $400,000 for the American Legacy Scholarship Fund.

"We are raising funds to ensure that higher education will be a reality for these families," Rehbein said. "Providing for the children of our military personnel left behind is our civic duty, and an education is a powerful way to show our thanks."

According to American Legacy Run event planners, more than 237 motorcycle riders and 53 passengers are expected to make the entire four-day journey. Legionnaires at posts along the route will provide support in the form of food and bottled water.

Rehbein has also asked American Legion posts and Legion Riders from all over the country to conduct a national fundraising effort on behalf of The American Legacy Scholarship Fund.

"This is something that all Americans can support," said Rehbein. "If you ride a motorcycle, join us. If you don't, become a ‘non-rider supporter,' get your patch and help these children."

Rehbein will stop in every state to collect donations from riders, American Legion family members, business leaders and members of the public. Stops and events planned include:

• Monday, August 17 - Pre-Run Rally - Indianapolis.
• Tuesday, August 18 - Indianapolis to Wheeling, WV
• Tuesday, August- Tour of Wright Patterson Air Force Base Museum, Dayton, OH
• Wednesday, August 19 - Wheeling, WV to Front Royal, VA
• Wednesday, August 19- Flight 93 Memorial Wreath Laying Ceremony, Shanksville, PA
• Thursday, August 20- Front Royal, VA to Charleston, WV
• Friday, August 21 - Charleston, WV to Louisville, KY

On Sunday, Aug. 23, at 4 pm, The American Legion Riders will lead the 91st Annual National American Legion Convention Parade on Main Street in between Brooks and 7th Streets in downtown Louisville.

A small delegation of American Legion Riders will formally present the national donations for the American Legacy Scholarship Fund directly to Commander Rehbein onstage at the National Convention.