GLADSTONE, Mich. (WZMQ) – This week, a group of motorcyclists is traveling through the entire state. They made a stop at the Gladstone American Legion Thursday afternoon.
The Forgotten Eagles of Michigan provide support for veterans facing emergency situations. Chapter One Products Officer Daretha Yeadon says when traditional services are not enough, veterans turn to the Forgotten Eagles.
“They can apply through a VSO through us to get funding,” Yeadon explained. “We’re raising money for nonprofits that support veterans as well. We’ve donated to Mission Six—a dog training program—and VA hospitals.”
American Legion Post 71 members greeted the Forgotten Eagles as they entered town. They all gathered inside the legion hall for fellowship and refreshments.
Forgotten Eagles Chapter One is covering more than a thousand miles on its 21st Annual Ride Around Michigah, known as the R.A.M. The R.A.M. is the group’s way of advocating for prisoners of war and those who have gone missing in action.
“There are so many POWs and MIAs that are not accounted for, and families are just not able to come to resolution until either their bodies or found or they figure out what happened to them,” said Yeadon. “Our main mission is to provide awareness for POW/MIA issues and bringing our soldiers home.”
After a quick break in Gladstone, the group left for Manistique, where they will stay for the night. On Friday, they will cross the Mackinac Bridge on their way to Petoskey and Houghton Lake. There, they will meet other Forgotten Eagles chapters and follow a police escort to Mount Pleasant for a special ceremony.
To donate to the Forgotten Eagles of Michigan or to learn more about what its chapters do, visit forgotteneagles.org.