Operation Charter Thunder: Help Build American Legion Riders Chapter 13

Something new is taking shape at Sauls-Bridges Post 13—and members of the entire American Legion Family are invited to help build it.

Post 13 is organizing American Legion Riders Chapter 13, and the first planning meeting will be held Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at 6:00 PM at Sauls-Bridges Post 13 in Tallahassee. The meeting is part of Operation Charter Thunder, an effort to bring together people interested in helping shape the future of the Riders at Post 13.

Help Us Build Chapter 13

The American Legion Riders bring together members of the Legion Family around camaraderie, service, veterans, community involvement, and a shared interest in motorcycling.

Whether you are an experienced Rider, thinking about becoming one, or simply interested in supporting the effort, we want you to be part of the conversation.

You do not need to own or ride a motorcycle to attend the planning meeting. Motorcycle owners and non-owners are welcome. The meeting is open to eligible members of:

• The American Legion

• American Legion Auxiliary

• Sons of The American Legion

Riders, Support Members, Future Riders, and potential members are all encouraged to attend.

What to Expect

This first meeting is an opportunity to meet the team, learn about American Legion Riders membership, hear what is being planned for Chapter 13, and discover ways you can get involved.

Most importantly, this is a chance to help shape the chapter from the beginning. If you have ideas about rides, service projects, veteran support, community involvement, fundraising, social activities, or simply what you would like Chapter 13 to become, we would like to hear them.

First Planning Meeting

• Tuesday, October 6, 2026 @ 6:00 PM

• American Legion Sauls-Bridges Post 13

• 229 Lake Ella Dr, Tallahassee, FL 32303

The event is being organized by Post 13 Riders – Tallahassee.

Interested, But Can’t Attend?

You can still be part of the effort. Complete the Chapter 13 interest form to let the organizing team know you would like to stay involved:

• Complete the American Legion Riders Chapter 13 Interest Form

• Questions can also be directed to FLPost13Riders@gmail.com

• Catch us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FLPost13Riders

This is an opportunity to create something new at Post 13 and strengthen another part of our American Legion Family. Come find your place in it.

Ride. Serve. Build Something New.

Meet the Candidates for Tallahassee and Leon County’s 2026 Elections at Post 13

Sauls-Bridges American Legion Post 13 is pleased to host a community “Meet and Greet the Candidates” for all candidates in the 2026 City of Tallahassee and Leon County elections. This nonpartisan event gives local residents—and especially veterans and their families—a chance to talk directly with the people who want to represent them.

On Thursday, April 2, from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., candidates and voters will come together at the Sauls-Bridges American Legion Post, located at 229 Lake Ella Drive, Tallahassee, FL 32303. All candidates for City of Tallahassee and Leon County offices are invited, regardless of political party, and every attendee will have an opportunity to listen, ask questions, and share what matters most to them.

Post 13 will not endorse any candidate or political party. Each candidate will be given time to briefly introduce themselves and then move into informal conversations with the public so neighbors, veterans, and community members can engage one-on-one. The event is open to everyone in the community, and the Post will make a special effort to have as many veterans present as possible so candidates can hear directly from those who have served.

“As a veterans’ organization, we’re honored to provide a neutral space where candidates and voters can connect face to face,” said Dennis Hall, Commander of Post 13. “This is about open dialogue, mutual respect, and helping our community make informed choices at the ballot box.”

Event details

Event: “Meet and Greet the Candidates” – 2026 City of Tallahassee & Leon County Elections

Date: Thursday, April 2, 2026

Time: 6:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Location: Sauls-Bridges American Legion Post 13, 229 Lake Ella Drive, Tallahassee, FL 32303

Who’s invited:

• All candidates for City of Tallahassee and Leon County offices (all parties welcome)

• Veterans, military families, and all interested community members

Gridiron Camaraderie: How Football Season Unites Tallahassee’s Veterans

Fall in Tallahassee means football—and for many veterans, it’s more than just a game. The excitement of college and academy matchups brings together the military community, inspiring camaraderie and pride across generations. At Sauls-Bridges Post 13, football season offers unique opportunities to honor service, strengthen bonds, and celebrate traditions that unite veterans, families, and fans alike.

FSU & FAMU: Honoring Veterans on Game Day

Tallahassee’s own Florida State University (FSU) and Florida A&M University (FAMU) are known for their robust support of veterans, especially on game days.

Each November, FSU hosts its annual Military Appreciation Game, where veterans and ROTC cadets are recognized on the field, and a special tailgate brings together student veterans and alumni.

In 2025, the FSU Military Appreciation Game will be held on November 15 against Virginia Tech, featuring pregame festivities, recognition ceremonies, and a military aircraft flyover (weather permitting).

FAMU also spotlights veterans at its own Military Appreciation Game, with the upcoming event taking place on November 1, 2025, combining football festivities with a vibrant community festival for local service members and their families.

Both universities invite veterans from the surrounding community—including members of Post 13—to participate, celebrate, and be honored for their service.

Football at the Military Academies & Army-Navy Tradition

Beyond Tallahassee, military football traditions take center stage at the U.S. service academies.

The renowned Army–Navy Game, held annually since 1930, embodies the enduring spirit and rivalry of America’s oldest service branches. Broadcast nationally and attended by military leaders—including many American Legion members—the Army-Navy Game marks the climax of the Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy series and brings together veterans across the country.

Sauls-Bridges Post 13 regularly hosts watch parties and tailgate events for these storied matchups, making game day a chance for veterans of all ages to reminisce, connect, and cheer together.

Connecting Through Game Day Traditions

Football traditions at Post 13 go beyond the field. Tailgates and watch parties create welcoming spaces for veterans—including FSU and FAMU alumni—to reconnect, swap stories, and share in friendly rivalries.

The Post encourages families to join in, fostering new memories and strengthening intergenerational bonds through the excitement of football season.

Special outreach during football weekends helps recruit new members and provides information on support services, career development, and mentorship opportunities tailored to young veterans. These events are frequently promoted via the Post’s newsletter, website, and social channels, drawing in both lifelong football fans and those looking for connection and fun.

Football’s Lasting Impact on Veteran Wellness

Participating in football season celebrations is about more than entertainment—it’s a way for veterans to engage, reduce stress, and experience the emotional rewards of community. Regular, inclusive events counter isolation and provide much-needed social opportunities for aging veterans and younger members alike.

Football’s competitive energy fosters positive mental health and builds resilience—core values shared by the American Legion and Tallahassee’s military community. Through these traditions, Post 13 honors service, strengthens community, and ensures everyone feels welcome in the spirit of the game.

Football season in Tallahassee energizes the city—and for Sauls-Bridges Post 13, it’s an ideal time to honor military service, host inclusive gatherings, and reconnect veterans with their community. Whether at FSU, FAMU, the academies, or the Post, game day is always about camaraderie, appreciation, and pride.

Call to Action:

Join Sauls-Bridges Post 13 for upcoming football watch parties, community events, and Military Appreciation Games! Veterans, families, and supporters are encouraged to meet new friends, enjoy the season, and participate in honoring military traditions. For details on events and how to get involved, visit https://www.floridalegionpost13.org/events and follow our updates.