​Bikers and pies! Riders Chapter 341 shows gratitude to local hospital staff

By Josh Marshall

   While the sight and sound of eight motorcycles roaring down the road - some with American Flags waving in the wind - would grab most people’s attention, these motorcycles were being eyed for another reason. They were delivering twenty assorted pies from Faye’s Northside Café, to IU Tipton Hospital for the staff, nurses, and doctors to enjoy. American Legion Riders Chapter 341 from Cicero called ahead to ensure they followed proper procedures for delivering to the hospital. "That way the nurses could enjoy the pies, but also we weren’t bringing any contamination to the hospital." said Jody Brown, Director of Riders Chapter 341. "We met at the backside of the hospital on the loading dock and we didn’t go inside. We exchanged everything with the hospital staff who was wearing all the proper safety equipment and we did it how their procedures dictated them to do it.”
 
   Staying active in their community is important to the chapter. Last winter, 40-50 Legion Family members arrived on motorcycles and delivered Christmas gifts to 33 foster children. Giving back and serving others is important to 341 and they call on other Legionnaires to do the same. “I think it’s important for Legionnaires to volunteer in this time because, as a veteran, as a serviceman, we are dedicated to our country, and community - what better time to show that dedication than during this pandemic,” says Brown.

   Doug Crouch was one of the employees who received the pies on the dock Wednesday. He appreciated that the pies were purchased locally in support of the Tipton community. But what touched him the most was seeing the eight veterans stepping up to support the hospital staff. “We really appreciate what the veterans have done for us,” says Crouch. For him, seeing the veterans show their support of the hospital was fitting, because IU Health Tipton Hospital used to be called Tipton County Memorial Hospital “and we have a long tie with veterans.” Crouch is the third generation in his family that has worked at the hospital. “So it goes way back for me, and it’s heartwarming and very gratifying to know that the veterans appreciate what we’re doing.”
 
   Right now, the scheduled events for Chapter 341 have been put on hold as they follow Governor Halcomb’s orders to stay home. But they hope to ride again soon so they can continue to serve their community.

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Legion Rider Chapter 341 on Facebook