Any newborn requires a lot of attention and that is certainly true of a new motorcycle group on South Whidbey.

The Legion Riders, the newest group born at American Legion Post 141 in Bayview, is just a few weeks old, but my, how it’s already grown.

“This is something that’s been lacking on the South end for a long time,” said charter member Bill Hughes. “I think it will be a good thing.”

At just 12 weeks old, the group already has 17 charter, or founding, members and a total of about 24 riders. To become a member, someone needs to have some affiliation with the American Legion, whether as a member of the Post or of the Legion Auxiliary or Sons of the American Legion or a family member. Riders must have a bike that’s 350 cc’s or better, it must be legally registered and insured and riders must have a motorcycle endorsement on their license.

“There have been lots of details and formalities to work through at the beginning,” said group director Frank Turner with a grin and a shrug of his shoulders. “We all have different ideas on how to get there, so it’s been a bit of a process.”

Members want to ride, first and foremost, but they also want to impact their community.

“The group is excited,” Hughes said. “Here’s a bunch of guys, veterans, doing something fun and something for the community.”

According to Hughes, the Legion Riders plan to hold events that will raise funds and help other organizations, such as the nonprofit Veterans Resource Center, which is now headquartered at Post 141.

“Everything we do will all be for charity,” he said. “And we want to try to involve active duty personnel, their families and the families of those who are deployed.”

During the initial start-up of the group, members have been meeting every Thursday at the Bayview American Legion. Annual dues to be part of the group are $20 per year, all of which stays with the club.

Turner is happy to be able to ride with a group of people who not only share a love of motorcycles, but a love of country.

“I can ride with a crew like this and hold my head up,” Turner said.

“I’ve been riding a long time,” agreed Hughes. “This makes it way more fun.”

Legion Riders meet Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. at American Legion Post 141 in Bayview. Anyone interested in more information can contact Bill Hughes at 360-941-3483.