Post Updates

NEWS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Legion Riders Brave Heat to Transport Patriot Tour Flag to Savannah

AIKEN, South Carolina (July 6, 2026) — The Nation of Patriots’ 17^th annual Patriot Tour for veterans arrived July 4, at American Legion Post 26, 636 Old Airport Rd., Aiken, and was transported by American Legion Riders Chapter 26 to Savannah, Georgia July 5.

In the Patriot Tour, a U.S. flag is transported in a nationwide, city-to-city, 24,000-mile, 120-day fundraising and awareness campaign. American Legion Riders Chapter 26 received the flag from American Legion Riders Chapter 25 (Laurens, South Carolina) during a flag transfer ceremony held on Independence Day at Post 26.

Seventeen Chapter 26 Riders on nine motorcycles and in two cars departed Aiken Sunday to transport the flag to Savannah, Georgia. Riders endured temperatures in the upper 90s with heat index values of up to 105 degrees during the 155-mile ride to Savannah. Because of those conditions, and the added heat of helmets, safety gear and engines, the Riders prioritized hydration and cooling. The route planner added an extra comfort stop and began the ride an hour earlier than planned, to try to beat the heat. Several riders took advantage of walk-in coolers at convenience stores to cool off. The group arrived safely and on-time and executed the flag transfer at Savannah Harley Davidson where a member of the local Chapter of the Harley Owners Group took charge of the flag. Three riders returned to Aiken the same day enduring the late afternoon heat and humidity for a round-trip total of 312 miles. The other riders stayed in Savannah to enjoy the city for the next day or two.

“The Nation of Patriots is an all-volunteer-powered nonprofit organization that honors those who protect American freedom by uniting Americans under the U.S. flag,” said Bill Sherer, founder and executive director of the Nation of Patriots. “The Patriot Tour is the organization’s primary fundraiser and 100 percent of the proceeds are donated to veterans in need as identified by Veterans Administration facilities and veteran service organizations across the country,” said Sherer.

“We’re proud to be a small part of this 24,000-mile, 50-state campaign,” said Randy Hollingsworth, Director of American Legion Riders Chapter 26. “We’re thrilled to receive the Patriot Tour’s U.S. flag on the 250^th anniversary of our nation’s independence, and we’re honored to be able to transport the flag to Savannah, Georgia. The only thing better than riding, is riding with a purpose, and we’re glad our ride Sunday supports fundraising that benefits our nation’s veterans in need,” said Hollingsworth.

Since the Nation of Patriots’ inception, the organization has raised nearly $2.5 million that has helped more than 865 veterans and their families.

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MEDIA ADVISORY

Nation of Patriots’ 17^th Annual Patriot Tour Comes to Aiken

AIKEN, South Carolina (June 30, 2026) — The Nation of Patriots’ 17^th annual Patriot Tour for veterans arrives July 4, at American Legion Post 26, 636 Old Airport Rd., Aiken, supported by American Legion Riders Chapter 26.

A U.S. flag is transported from city to city for the Patriot Tour in a nationwide, city-to-city, 24,000-mile, 120-day fundraising and awareness campaign. American Legion Riders Chapter 26 will receive the flag from American Legion Riders Chapter 25 (Laurens, South Carolina) during a flag transfer ceremony scheduled for 12:30 p.m., Saturday, at Post 26. Chapter 26 riders will depart Aiken Sunday, 8 a.m., to transport the flag to Savannah, Georgia.

“We’re proud to be a small part of this 24,000-mile, 50-state campaign,” said Randy Hollingsworth, Director of American Legion Riders Chapter 26. “We’re thrilled to receive the Patriot Tour’s U.S. flag on the 250^th anniversary of our nation’s independence, and we’re honored to be able to transport the flag to Savannah, Georgia, Sunday. The only thing better than riding, is riding with a purpose, and we’re glad our ride Sunday supports fundraising that benefits our nation’s veterans in need,” said Hollingsworth.

Since the Nation of Patriots’ inception, the organization has raised nearly $2.5 million that has helped more than 865 veterans and their families.

WHO: American Legion Riders Chapter 26 (Aiken), American Legion Riders Chapter 25 (Laurens), The Patriot Nation.

WHAT: The 17^th Annual Patriot Tour, flag arrival and transfer ceremony.

WHERE: American Legion Post 26, 636 Old Airport Road, Aiken.

WHEN:
Saturday, July 4: Flag arrival and transfer ceremony, 12:30 p.m.
Sunday, July 5: Riders depart with flag, bound for Savannah, 8 a.m.

EDITORS NOTE: Media representatives interested in covering this event are asked to RSVP to aikenchapter26legionriders@gmail.com. Those covering Saturday’s event are asked to be in place by 12:15 p.m. on the day of the event, and those covering Sunday’s departure are asked to be in place by 7:30 a.m.

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NEWS RELEASE

For Immediate Release

Excellence Recognized at Annual American Legion Post 26 Awards Dinner

AIKEN, South Carolina (April 29, 2026) — American Legion Post 26 recognized the superior performance of two Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps Cadets, an Aiken public safety officer, two law enforcement officers, a New Ellenton teacher and a guidance counselor from Aiken, as well as three Post 26 members, during an awards dinner held Tuesday at Post 26. Post Commander Frank Carson presided over the awards presentation.

Each year Post 26 recognizes JROTC cadets from local high schools who have gone above and beyond what is required and expected of them. This year, the Post recognized two South Aiken Navy Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps students.

Cadet Maia Washburn is this year’s recipient of the American Legion JROTC Scholastic Medal. This award is presented to a student who is in the top 10 percent of their class academically and who actively participates in other student activities.

Cadet Addisyn Greenhill is this year’s recipient of the American Legion JROTC Military Excellence Medal, an award presented to a student who demonstrates outstanding qualities in military leadership, discipline, character and citizenship.

Mrs. Aretha Tarver, the school counselor at Chukker Creek Elementary School in Aiken, received the Counselor of the Year award for her daily dedication to facilitating student support groups and integrating math tutoring into those sessions, resulting in measurable student success seen in both diagnostic assessments and benchmark performance. Tarver serves as the Beta Club sponsor, supporting and challenging high-achieving students. She coached 22 students for the state Beta club competition, with 15 students earning awards in robotics, performing arts, foreign languages, public speaking literacy and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Mathematics). Tarver is also a member of the Principal’s Advisory Council and the Lighthouse Leadership Team.

The American Legion Post 26 Teacher of the Year is Shauna Bashline from the New Ellenton Middle STEAM Magnet School. Bashline earned the recognition through her passion for bringing history and civic understanding to her students, teaching South Carolina History, encouraging student participation in the Civics Bee and teaching the importance of service, sacrifice and citizenship by finding meaningful ways for students to the honor the service of area Veterans.

This year Post 26 is honored to present the Law Enforcement Officer of the Year award to two recipients.

Sgt. Spenser Small of the Aiken Department of Public Safety is known for his honesty, dependability and the support he gives his team. As a school resource officer Sergeant, Small fulfills a vital role, maintaining safety within our area schools – primarily at Aiken High School – yet he ensures other campuses feel equally secure. Small’s approach to community policing fosters a positive and respectful environment, earning trust from both staff and students.

Officer Joshua James Corbin of the Savannah River Site Protective Force earned the award through his commitment to his duties at the Savannah River Site, demonstrating a profound understanding of community policing. Corbin uses his humor or people skills to connect with people during service calls – an approach that helps de-escalate situations while building trust and rapport with the public.

Lt. Brandi Smith of the Savannah River Site Protective Force is this year’s Public Safety Officer of the Year. Smith exemplifies the core values of her organization in every aspect of her duties. Smith is a supervisor within the Perimeter Protection Department and has more than 20 years of experience in Protective Force operations.

Post Commander Carson then recognized the performance of three members of the Post 26 family for their exceptional service to the Post, to veterans and to the Aiken community.

The 2026 Post 26 American Legion Rider of the Year is Paul Ness – known as “Nitro” by his fellow riders. Ness was consistently at the forefront of American Legion Rider Chapter 26 events, rides and special projects and is a “Charter Member” of the Chapter and was a key figure in the development of the Chapter.

The 2026 American Legion Auxiliary Member of the Year is Beverly Rapp, whose contributions extend well beyond Unit 26 and Post 26. Rapp has been at the forefront of Unit 26’s Girls State program and is an integral member of the Post’s Fundraiser Breakfast team.

The 2026 Post 26 Legionnaire of the Year is Chris O’Neil. In 2025 O’Neil served as a Post trustee; Chairman of the Media and Communications Committee; and the Assistant Director of the Post’s American Legion Riders Chapter 26. He provided expert counsel and crisis communications support when the embezzlement of Post funds was uncovered. His actions provided transparency to donors, members and the community while effectively communicating actions the Post initiated to prevent recurrence. O’Neil’s management of the Post’s social media accounts, and incorporation of the Post’s new website in Post communications, broadened the reach and impact of the Post’s outreach efforts. When the Post recognized it could not field a baseball and softball program, he suggested, researched and implemented the Post’s sponsorship of five teams in the City of Aiken Youth Baseball and Softball program, ensuring local young athletes continued to receive support from American Legion Post 26.

Editors Note: Images from the awards dinner are available at https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjCSnh7

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American Legion Post 26
Aiken, SC

Media Contact: Chris O’Neil, APR
legionpost26aikensc@gmail.com

MEDIA ADVISORY

American Legion Post 26 Annual Awards Dinner Celebrates Excellence

AIKEN, South Carolina (April 23, 2026) — American Legion Post 26 will recognize the superior performance of Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps Cadets, an Aiken public safety officer, a law enforcement officer, an Aiken teacher and a guidance counselor as well as three Post 26 members, during an awards dinner scheduled for April 28 at Post 26, 636 Old Airport Road, Aiken.

Awards being presented during the dinner include:

The American Legion JROTC Scholastic Medal

The American Legion JROTC Military Excellence Medal

Public Safety Officer of the Year

Teacher of the Year

Law Enforcement Officer of the Year

School Counselor of the Year

Post 26 Legionnaire of the Year

Chapter 26 American Legion Rider of the Year

Unit 26 Auxiliarist of the Year

Recipients earned their honors for their actions during calendar year 2025.

The event begins at 6 p.m. with fellowship and the dinner will begin at 6:45 p.m. Media interested in covering the event are asked to RSVP to Legionpost26aikensc@gmail.com and to be in place at the post by 6:30 p.m. on the day of the event.

The Post commander and the award recipients will be available for interviews following the awards presentation.

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The American Legion was chartered and incorporated by Congress in 1919 as a patriotic veterans organization devoted to mutual helpfulness. It is the nation’s largest wartime veterans service organization, committed to mentoring youth and sponsorship of wholesome programs in our communities, advocating patriotism and honor, promoting strong national security, and continued devotion to our fellow servicemembers and veterans.

American Legion Post 26

Aiken, SC

Media Contact: Chris O’Neil, APR
aikenchapter26legionriders@gmail.com

NEWS RELEASE

For Immediate Release

LEGION RIDERS HOLD AWARENESS EVENT

AIKEN, South Carolina (April 19, 2026) — American Legion Riders Chapter 26 held a first-of-its-kind Motorcycle Awareness Event April 18 at Millbrook Baptist Church, Aiken.

The event was designed to help motorists increase their awareness of motorcyclists and to foster the behaviors and practices that create safer roads for motorcyclists and drivers alike. The event was free to the public.

ALR Chapter 26 partnered with Aiken Horsepower Association and held the event in concert with the association’s “Fellowship of the Spring” 2026 car show, which brought 95 entrants to the competition and provided a way to bring automotive and motorcycle enthusiasts together in a fun setting.

There have been two fatal motorcycle crashes in the Aiken area thus far in 2026, and there were six fatal motorcycle crashes in the Aiken area in 2025. While the circumstances surrounding them don’t point to a single causal factor, they remind us of the need to safely share the road.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration motorcycle riders continue to be overrepresented in fatal traffic crashes with 6,335 motorcyclists killed in 2023 — 15% of all traffic fatalities. NHTSA data show that this is the highest number of motorcyclists killed since at least 1975. Various source data reveal motorcyclists are more than 22 times as likely to die in a crash as drivers of cars or their passengers.

As motorcycle enthusiasts, American Legion Riders are dedicated to the principles of safe motorcycle operation and as such, we felt the need to hold this event to help build awareness among drivers and bikers, that highway safety is a shared responsibility.

“As motorcyclists we see, and are affected by, the driving behavior of motorists who are unaware of their role in sharing the road safely,” said Chris O’Neil, assistant director of American Legion Riders Chapter 26. “While we are hopeful the recently enacted “hands-free” law in South Carolina will reduce distracted driving, there remains a need to educate motorists about how to safely share the road with motorcyclists. I hope this first-of-its-kind event is the catalyst for a broader effort in the CSRA and across the state, to reduce motorcycle crashes and increase safety for motorists and riders. Every rider is someone’s neighbor, friend or loved one – drive like they're yours,” O’Neil said.

“I can’t thank our partners enough,” said O’Neil, “They really stepped up and helped make the event fun and purposeful. It’s asking a lot of an organization to commit time and resources to an event like this, particularly when it’s the first time. There’s been a lot of collaboration, and I think we are already looking forward to next year and how we can make it even better,” he said.

The event involved several organizations including:

· American Legion Riders Chapter 26

· Aiken Motorcycle Sales & Service

· Aiken County Sheriff’s Office

· Aiken Department of Public Safety

· South Carolina Highway Patrol

· Mothers Against Drunk Driving

· Moto Masters of Augusta

· Bikers Against Child Abuse

· Law Tigers

· Aiken Horsepower Association

“We held the event on April 18 because it is one week prior to the Department of South Carolina American Legion Riders Legacy Ride – an annual fundraiser supporting American Legion charitable programs – that will draw more than 200 Legion Riders from across the state for two days of riding,” said O’Neil. “South Carolina’s climate lends itself to nearly year-round riding, so motorcycle awareness is important not only next weekend, but throughout the year,” he said.

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American Legion Post 26

Aiken, SC

Media Contact: Chris O’Neil, APR
aikenchapter26legionriders@gmail.com

AIKEN AMERICAN LEGION RIDERS TO HOLD MOTORCYCLE AWARENESS EVENT

AIKEN, South Carolina (April 13, 2025) — American Legion Riders Chapter 26 is scheduled to hold a Motorcycle Awareness Event April 18, 2026, 9 a.m to 2 p.m., in the parking lot of Millbrook Baptist Church, 223 South Aiken Blvd. SE, Aiken.

The event is designed to help motorists increase their awareness of motorcyclists and to foster the behaviors and practices that create safer roads for motorcyclists and drivers alike. The event is free to the public.

ALR Chapter 26 has partnered with Aiken Horsepower Association and is holding the event in concert with the association’s “Fellowship of the Spring” 2026 car show, bringing automotive and motorcycle enthusiasts together – an ideal way to build awareness in both communities.

WHO:

· American Legion Riders Chapter 26

· Aiken Motorcycle Sales & Service

· Aiken County Sheriff’s Office

· Aiken Department of Public Safety

· Mothers Against Drunk Driving

· Distracted Driving Simulator

· Moto Masters of Augusta

· Aiken Horsepower Association

WHAT: Free to the public, Motorcycle Awareness Event and Car Show. Twenty car show trophies for muscle cars, trucks, and motorcycles. Food trucks, motorcycle skills demonstrations, law enforcement displays, distracted driving simulator.

WHERE: Millbrook Baptist Church, 223 South Aiken Blvd. SE, Aiken. NOTE: The Whiskey Road entrance will be closed, enter from the South Aiken Blvd./South Aiken Lane entrance.

WHEN: April 18, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. (Rain date for car show is April 25. In the event of rain, the awareness event will be rescheduled for a later date.)

WHY: There have been two fatal motorcycle crashes in the Aiken area in the first few months of 2026, and there were six fatal motorcycle crashes in 2025. On April 25 and 26, 200 American Legion Riders will be riding across South Carolina for the Department of South Carolina American Legion Riders Legacy Ride – an annual fundraiser supporting American Legion charitable programs. This event is designed to raise awareness among drivers to, “Look Twice, Save a Life,” and to “Share the Road, Save a Life.”

Editors Note: Media interested in live broadcasting from the event, covering the event or interviewing participants or organizers, are asked to contact Chris O’Neil at aikenchapter26legionriders@gmail.com.

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Feb. 21, 2026

Chapter 26 Riders Serve Community, Veterans

Chapter 26 Riders demonstrated their unwavering commitment to veteran and community outreach through three events Feb. 20.

The riders volunteered to assist ACTS of Aiken with their food distribution event held at the Aiken Department of Public Safety Headquarters. The riders were part of the army of more than 60 volunteers, representing 25 organizations, who helped distribute 8,000 pounds of food - that's 4 TONS - to 163 families, helping to feed 451 people. This event marked the kick-off of Chapter 26’s partnership with ACTS of Aiken where Legion Riders volunteer their time, talent and effort to support ACTS of Aiken to help our community. American Legion Rider volunteers pose with ACTS of Aiken Director Logan C. Ford, during the ACTS of Aiken food distribution event Feb. 20.

The riders then enjoyed lunch and fellowship at the Wellness Collective’s veteran’s lunch at the New Ellenton Community Center. Held in partnership with the Aiken County Veterans Council, the lunch offered the opportunity to visit with fellow veterans, access veterans' services and information, and enjoy a great meal.

The third event of the day had the Legion Riders participating in a Veteran’s Last Patrol Honor Ceremony, to honor the service of Clifford Huff, a veteran in hospice at Pruitt Health in North Augusta. The Veteran’s Last Patrol connects veteran volunteers to veterans in hospice. They cooperate with medical providers of hospice care to connect volunteers to veteran patients so that their last patrol isn’t alone. It’s hard to overestimate the importance of friendship during end-of-life care. Last Patrol brings new friendships when friendship matters most. Chapter 26’s involvement with Veteran’s Last Patrol came about through the connection to the organization by Kari Perez and Cindy Price, two of the Chapter’s newest members. Participants in the Veteran's Last Patrol ceremony for Clifford Huff, pose for the camera with him

If you are eligible for membership in the American Legion family, own a street legal motorcycle and are licensed to operate it, and want to serve your community and fellow veterans, then it’s time to lead the way as an American Legion Rider. For more information visit https://tinyurl.com/5evr5sty or email us.

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AI-generated content may be incorrect. American Legion Post 26Aiken, SC

Media Contact: Chris O’Neil, APR
legionpost26aikensc@gmail.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

NEWS RELEASE

2025 Boys State, Girls State Delegates, Youth Law Cadets Recognized

AIKEN, South Carolina (Oct. 29, 2025) — The young men and women who participated in the 2025 Boys State, Girls State and Youth Law Cadet programs were recognized for their achievement during a dinner held at American Legion Post 26, Tuesday evening.

American Legion Post 26 sponsored 14 Boys State delegates and Auxiliary Unit 26 sponsored five Girls State delegates. Post 26 also sponsored four Youth Law Cadets. It costs more than $300 per delegate to attend Boys State and more than $400 per delegate to attend Girls State. Youth Law Cadet participants, while sponsored by Post 26, are funded by the Western Carolina Fair Committee and the Aiken County School District at a cost of $300 per cadet.

Selection of delegates to attend Boys State and Girls State is highly competitive and rigorous, incorporating academics, extracurricular activities and an interview process. Youth Law Cadets must have an expressed interest in law enforcement as a career, be physically fit, receive an endorsement from a senior official from their high school and complete an interview process.

“The young men and women we sponsored for the 2025 Boys State, Girls State and Youth Law Cadet Academy, and their fellow delegates and cadets, leave us more confident in the future of this great experiment in democracy we call America,” said Frank Carson, American Legion Post 26 Commander.

Guest speaker Jeff Wallace, an adjunct faculty member in the Communication Department at USC Aiken, delivered thoughtful, amusing and relatable remarks about leadership prior to the presentation of certificates to the evening's honorees.

Boys State delegates recognized Tuesday evening are:

· Eli Salch – South Aiken High School

· Orajiah Fleming – South Aiken High School

· Tyler Walker – South Aiken High School

· Andru Masterson – South Aiken High School

· Jayden Broughton – South Aiken High School

· Chase Gant – South Aiken High School

· Shawn Forth – Aiken Scholars Academy

· Axel Hornung – Aiken Scholars Academy

· Jose Hernandez – Aiken Scholars Academy

· Joe Powell – Aiken Scholars Academy

· Ronald Sheperd III – Mead Hall

· George Becker – Mead Hall

· Andrew McKinney – South Aiken Baptist Christian School

· Randy Williams – Horse Creek Academy

“Palmetto Boys State is held each year at Anderson University, with more than 1,100 students attending,” said Vince Jones, Post 26 Adjutant and Palmetto Boys State coordinator. “During the week-long program, students study Team Building, Leadership and Democracy and have an opportunity to run for an elected office from City Council to Governor. Those elected Governor and Lieutenant Governor go on to attend Boys Nation in Washington, D.C.,” said Jones.

Girls State delegates recognized Tuesday evening are:

· Bianca Jenkins – Aiken High School

· Avlyn Yeh – Aiken High School

· Savannah Williamson – Aiken High School

· Grace Bilecci – Aiken High School

· Gabrielle Anderson – Aiken Scholars Academy

“The girls learn effective communications, government structure and functions at the local and state levels, and they experience the election process,” said Deanna Smith, American Legion Auxiliary Unit 26 Palmetto Girls State Interviewer and Unit 26 Treasurer. “Palmetto Girls State also allows them to learn their own leadership styles and develop their leadership abilities. The program brings more than 650 girls from across the state to learn and create lifetime memories and friendships,” said Smith.

Youth Law Cadets recognized Tuesday evening are:

· Yuvialen Sanchez — Midland Valley High School

· Haylie Eppes — Midland Valley High School

· Isabel Rutland — Midland Valley High School

· Carynna Johnston South Aiken High School

“The Nathan M. Wolfe Law Enforcement Cadet Academy is the perfect place for High School students to gain knowledge about whether they genuinely want to pursue a law enforcement career,” said Richard K. Dorman, Sr., American Legion Department of South Carolina District 15 Commander. “It is a week-long course designed to take students through a broad range of law enforcement demands from lectures, instructions to hands-on training. The academy is fun and provides both a physically and mentally challenging environment.

The recognition dinner was sponsored by Katie Carson Realtor, Guild Mortgage Company, Elite Painting Group, and Chief Living Solutions. Southern Gal in the Valley catered the dinner.

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American Legion Post 26
Aiken, SC
Media Contact: Chris O’Neil, APR
legionpost26aikensc@gmail.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Advisory

2025 Boys State, Girls State Delegates, Youth Law Cadets to be Recognized

AIKEN, South Carolina (Oct. 23, 2025) — The young men and women who participated in the 2025 Boys State, Girls State and Youth Law Cadet programs will be recognized for their achievement during a dinner at American Legion Post 26, Tuesday evening.

Boys State delegates being recognized Tuesday evening are:

· Eli Salch – South Aiken High School

· Orajiah Fleming – South Aiken High School

· Tyler Walker – South Aiken High School

· Andru Masterson – South Aiken High School

· Jayden Broughton – South Aiken High School

· Chase Gant – South Aiken High School

· Shawn Forth – Aiken Scholars Academy

· Axel Hornung – Aiken Scholars Academy

· Jose Hernandez – Aiken Scholars Academy

· Joe Powell – Aiken Scholars Academy

· Ronald Sheperd III – Mead Hall

· George Becker – Mead Hall

· Andrew McKinney – South Aiken Baptist Christian School

· Randy Williams – Horse Creek Academy

Girls State delegates being recognized Tuesday evening are:

· Bianca Jenkins – Aiken High School

· Avlyn Yeh – Aiken High School

· Savannah Williamson – Aiken High School

· Grace Bilecci – Aiken High School

· Gabrielle Anderson – Aiken Scholars Academy

Youth Law Cadets being recognized Tuesday evening are:

· Yuvialen Sanchez — Midland Valley High School

· Haylie Eppes — Midland Valley High School

· Isabel Rutland — Midland Valley High School

· Carynna Johnston South Aiken High School

The recognition dinner is being sponsored by Chief Living Solutions, Elite Painting Group, Guild Mortgage Company, and Katie Carson Realtor, and catered by Southern Gal in the Valley.

Editors Note: The Post 26 Boys State coordinator, the Unit 26 Girls State coordinator, the Youth Law Cadet program coordinator will be available for interviews as will be several delegates and cadets. Media interested in covering the event are asked to RSVP to legionpost26aikensc@gmail.com and to be in place on Tuesday evening not later than 6:45 p.m.

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Comcast Launches Lift Zone During Post 26 Fourth Friday Lunch

American Legion Post 26 announced the launch of the Comcast Lift Zone at the Post during a ribbon cutting ceremony conducted as part of the Post’s Aug. 22, 2025, Fourth Friday Lunch.

Post 26 Commander Frank Carson presided over the event and was joined at the dais by Comcast executives including Amy Wright, Director of Community Impact, Carlos Couto Director of Military & Veterans Affairs, Christina Wiskowski, Senior Director of Strategic Initiatives and Digital Opportunity, and Hillary Cameron, Government and Regulatory Affairs Manager. It was Cameron who initially contacted Carson with the vision for establishing a Lift Zone at Post 26. Jim Tunison, President and CEO of the Aiken Chamber of Commerce and former Commander of Squadron 26 of the Sons of the American Legion, also spoke to the attendees and participated in the ribbon cutting as did Representative Charels Hartz (R-S.C.) of Aiken County District 81. Members of the Aiken Chamber Ambassador Team also joined in for the ribbon cutting.

Fourth Friday Lunch – a Post 26 outreach program that welcomes veterans, active-duty, national guard and reserve personnel for a free meal, fellowship and fun – isn’t complete without great food and Chef Paul Comes, of the Sportsman Channel and the “Hunt. Fish. Feed.” initiative served up an amazing lunch featuring venison tacos. Comes was supported by members of Comcast’s Team UP who not only helped set up the venue but also provided sous chef services, slicing and dicing all manner of vegetables and fruits for the lunch. Leftovers were packaged with care and brought to the Ft. Gordon Fisher House.

When Cameron first learned about Post 26 she immediately knew the post would be an ideal candidate for a Lift Zone. Lift Zones are part of Comcast’s broader Internet Essentials Program. Within the program is Comcast’s Project UP -- a $1 billion, 10-year initiative aimed at advancing digital equity by expanding internet access, offering digital skills training, and supporting economic mobility. Lift Zones complement the broader Internet Essentials program, which since 2011 has connected over 10 million low-income households to affordable home Internet and related training. Together, these efforts reflect Comcast’s commitment to creating digital opportunities and building a future of “unlimited possibilities” across underserved communities.

“The response from the amazing Comcast volunteers, and our Legion Family members has been nothing short of amazing,” said Carson. “To have a company as big as Comcast take time to organize an event and provide internet services to our little Post is truly humbling for myself and is a great pride for Post 26. Gaining this broadband service is another step forward in our efforts to expand the services we provide to our veterans and the Aiken community,” he said.

Lift Zones are spaces in community centers where Comcast provides complimentary WiFi for community members to access connectivity that helps them succeed in their day-to-day lives. Comcast further supports Lift Zones by providing additional digital resources necessary for the the community to fulfill their efforts in digital literacy trainings.

Post 26 previously struggled in gaining broadband internet service. The post’s property is zoned as a commercial property, and as a result, service providers were only offering business rates to the post – which were simply not affordable. While the post did receive a hotspot from South Carolina Educational Television (SCETV) the post’s needs exceeded the service. Efforts by Carson and other post officers during the past 18 months to secure high-speed broadband internet at a discounted rate were unsuccessful. Cameron’s motivation and dedication to veterans bridged the divide and Comcast services are now bringing the post into the 21^st Century.

The big surprise on Friday was the presentation of 50 laptops, furnished by Comcast, to members of Post 26.

“There are veterans out there who are limited in their abilities to reach out, and when a company as big as Comcast can do this and do it for the purposes that they’ve said, I think it’s a wonderful thing,” said Post 26 Legionnaire and Legion Rider Jon Henke, a 29-year Navy veteran. “They’re finally recognizing what the veterans have done. The prices that they’ve paid to support this country and these businesses, I think it’s a wonderful thing that Comcast is doing,” he said.

The post has several plans to use the Lift Zone to help veterans and the community. The post plans to offer computer literacy classes for its members and the community to help veterans and seniors access information and benefits online, and, to do so securely by avoiding scams, phishing and other predatory online threats. The post wants to become an Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) tutoring center, to help young men and women maximize their military career opportunities by helping them achieve higher ASVAB scores. Within the ranks of the American Legion, younger Legionnaires are drawn to online gaming – both recreational and competitive – and Post 26 wants to replicate the successes of other American Legion posts who have created online gaming stations within their posts to engage the next generation of veterans.

Chapter 26 Riders Attend 2025 Meet and Greet

Chapter 26 Legion Riders represented Aiken Aug. 9, at the American Legion Riders of South Carolina’s 2025 Meet and Greet, with 13 motorcycles and 17 riders attending the annual gathering of South Carolina Legion Riders.

Chapter 26 Riders started the day at Post 26’s Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser for a great breakfast. After the safety briefing and prayer, the Riders departed for what would be more than 200 miles of saddle time. The Meet and Greet was hosted by Laurens South Carolina Post 25 in their brand-new building. Chapter 26 took a route that led them through Sumter National Forest before rolling into Laurens. After enjoying a pulled pork lunch and conducting some ALRSC business, the Riders saddled up for the ride back to Aiken via Saluda.

American Legion Riders are Legionnaires, Auxiliary Members and Sons of the American Legion who ride together to support veterans, our community and the Legion family. Like and follow our Facebook page to get the latest from the Chapter and learn how you can help support the Chapter and its fundraising efforts. If you are eligible for membership in the American Legion, American Legion Auxiliary or Sons of the American Legion and you ride a motorcycle, consider becoming an American Legion Rider – Let’s Ride!

Palmetto Boys State Experience Fuels Delegate’s Passion for Public Service

The impact of Post 26 programs can be difficult to quantify but the quality of the experiences we provide for our community’s youth is unquestionable.

Randy Williams III, is one of the 14 boys American Legion Post 26 sponsored for the 2025 Palmetto Boys State program. “Because of the American Legion, I’ve had the chance to really get a feel for the government and the factional process of its works. Post 26 has done something so special for me – Post 26 made this experience one that I can never forget,” said Williams.

Boys State provides a multifaceted learning environment where young men gain an understanding of the American system of government and politics by engaging in a mock governmental system. Young men who apply for consideration to attend Boys State are selected to attend between their junior and senior years of high school after successfully completing a rigorous nomination and interview process managed by the post.

Williams aspires to both serve in the South Carolina House of Representatives and to sit on the South Carolina Supreme court. Helping energize and support such ambition with practical learning and leadership experiences is what Boys State is all about and that is why Aiken’s American Legion Post 26 is such an ardent supporter of Palmetto Boys State.

“I hope that disseminating my story and my passion and love for Boys State will inspire others to seek nomination and to give back to their community,” said Williams. “I also hope my experience helps inspire members of Post 26 to continue their work that affords this opportunity to young men in our area,” he said.

It costs more than $350.00 for a candidate to participate in the Palmetto Boys State program. Your tax-deductible contributions to American Legion Post 26 help fund this and other youth and community-based activities that support Aiken’s young men and women, Aiken’s veterans and our community. Scan the QR code or visit https://square.link/u/NRGOaK7T to donate today.

Posted by Chris O’Neil, APR

American Legion Post 26
Aiken, SC
Media Contact: Chris O’Neil
legionpost26aikensc@gmail.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

NEWS RELEASE

Public Safety Officer, Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps Cadets, Post and Unit 26 Members Recognized for Excellence

AIKEN, S.C. (June 25, 2025) — A public safety officer, Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps Cadets, and members of the American Legion Post 26 family were recognized for excellence during the American Legion Post 26 annual awards dinner held Tuesday.

Senior Public Safety Officer John Massey, of the Aiken Department of Public Safety, received the American Legion Post 26 Public Safety Officer of the Year award. Massey distinguished himself as a leader and a motivator, setting a high standard of performance for himself and his team. Massey demonstrates a proactive approach to public safety with an unmatched work ethic that keeps him among the top officers for arrests and traffic stops. His willingness to assist his shift-mates with any task, reflects his team-first mindset and his dedication to the department’s mission.

JROTC Cadet Julia Stone earned the American Legion JROTC Scholastic Medal and JROTC Cadet Gretchen Morgan earned the Legion’s JROTC Military Excellence Medal. Stone and Morgan both attend South Aiken High School. The Scholastic Medal is awarded to a cadet based on their overall scholastic achievements. The recipient must be in the upper 10 percent of their class and must be in the upper 25 percent for all Naval science courses. The awardee must also demonstrate leadership and actively participate in extracurricular activities such as athletics or student organizations. The Military Excellence Medal is awarded to a cadet based on their general military excellence and whose academic standing is in the upper 25 percent of their class. Stone and Morgan were unable to attend the dinner and will be presented their medals at a later date.

Within the Post 26 Legion Family, a Legionnaire, an Auxiliarist and a Junior Auxiliarist were recognized for their outstanding contributions.

Grace Billeci, a Junior Auxiliarist with Auxiliary Unit 26, received the Youth Auxiliary Member of the Year award. Billeci, age 16, is dual enrolled at Aiken High School and University South Carolina Aiken, and has inspired growth, teamwork and a true spirt of “Service Not Self” through her leadership by example. Billeci guided the newer Junior Auxiliary members with patience and purpose while setting the example in organizing service projects, preparing meals and refreshments for veterans at the Fort Gordon Fisher House, the Aiken Veterans Administration Clinic and for members of Post 26. She additionally helps set up the Post 26 building for events including decorating and cleaning the Post.

Dawn Billeci received the Auxiliary Member of the Year award for her work with Auxiliary Unit 26. Billeci, who recently became president of Unit 26 after serving as its Vice President, earned her award through her demonstrated remarkable dedication to both Auxiliary Unit 26 and Post 26. Billeci developed the Yoga for Wellness program at Post 26, providing veterans and first responders with mental and physical health support. She also launched the Fourth Friday Lunch event, providing veterans and Post 26 members with a lunch, activities and fellowship. Billeci mentors the Junior Auxiliarists, serves on the Veteran Affairs & Rehabilitation committee, and expanded the meal-sharing initiative that now serves as the cornerstone of the Junior Auxiliarists’ service efforts. She is relentless in her pursuit of finding funding through grants to help improve the Post 26 building and to sustain and expand Unit 26 and Post 26 community activities.

Charlie Lambert, a member of Post 26 and Secretary of the Legion Riders Chapter 26, received the Legionnaire of the Year award. Lambert earned his award through his consistently volunteering his time to make improvements to the post and within the community. Lambert volunteered to do the electrical work needed for the Post’s new flag poles and memorial wall as well as prepping and painting the memorial wall itself. Lambert assisted several people in his community in the wake of Hurricane Helene, helping them with electrical connections for generators and ensuring they were ready for power when it was restored. Lambert built an access ramp for a disabled veteran to make access to his home easier. Lambert’s actions throughout the year demonstrate the “devotion to mutual helpfulness” that is the closing of the American Legion’s Preamble.

“I am honored to be able to recognize the selfless service and excellence demonstrated by these community leaders,” said Frank Carson, Post 26 Commander. “The American Legion is a service organization, and our awardees exemplify selfless service, servant leadership and dedication to our community that are at the heart of the Legion’s mission.”

The awards were presented during a ceremony and dinner held at Post 26. Comcast, as part of their growing partnership with Post 26, sponsored the dinner and Southern Gal in the Valley catered the event.

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American Legion Post 26
Aiken, SC
Media Contact: Chris O’Neil
legionpost26aikensc@gmail.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MEDIA ADVISORY

American Legion Post 26 Holds Annual Awards Dinner

AIKEN, S.C. (June 23, 2025) — American Legion Post 26 will recognize the excellent performance of two Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps Cadets, a Public Safety Officer, and three Post 26 members during an awards dinner Tuesday.

Awards being presented Tuesday include:

· The American Legion JROTC Scholastic Medal

· The American Legion JROTC Military Excellence Medal

· Public Safety Officer of the Year

· Post 26 Legionnaire of the Year

· Unit 26 Auxiliarist of the Year

· Unit 26 Junior Auxiliarist of the Year

The Post 26 Commander, Frank Carson, and the award recipients will be available for interviews following the ceremony.

The event begins at 6:45 p.m. Media interested in covering the event are asked to RSVP to legionpost26aikensc@gmail.com and to be in place by 6:30 p.m. on the day of the event.

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American Legion Post 26
Aiken, SC
Media Contact: Chris O’Neil
legionpost26aikensc@gmail.com

MEDIA ADVISORY

Aiken American Legion Post Flag Day Event

AIKEN, South Carolina (June 13, 2025) — American Legion Post 26 will conduct a flag retirement ceremony and the dignified disposal of unserviceable U.S. flags Saturday, at Post 26 beginning at 4 p.m.

American Legion posts hold a flag retirement ceremony on Flag Day, to commemorate the date in 1777 when the United States approved the design for the first national flag.

Members of Post 26 will conduct the flag retirement ceremony followed by the dignified disposal of unserviceable U.S. flags collected by the post. In accordance with the U.S. Flag Code, the unserviceable flags will be burned.

The Flag Day event is open to the public.

Who: American Legion Post 26.

What: Flag retirement ceremony and dignified disposal of unserviceable U.S. flags.

When: Saturday, June 14, 2025, 4 p.m.

Where: Post 26, 636 Old Airport Road, Aiken, SC.

Media interested in covering this event are asked to RSVP at legionpost26aikensc@gmail.com and are asked to be in place by 3:45 p.m. on the day of the event.

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