An informational meeting is planned for Sunday at the Albert Lea American Legion Post to discuss the possibility of having a Legion Riders chapter in the city.

Wes Halverson, commander of the Albert Lea American  Legion post, said he wanted to look into developing a chapter originally as a way to get veterans more involved in the Legion and to get them talking more with each other.

He said often veterans who return home from wars overseas have post-traumatic stress disorder.

“One of the best ways to help with that is to get individuals talking to each other,” Halverson said.

In 2010, a group of about 300 American Legion members stopped overnight in Albert Lea during the Legacy Run. The ride is organized by the American Legion and the American Legion Riders. The event raised money for scholarships to children of soldiers who have lost their lives since Sept. 11.

Halverson said that event got him thinking that maybe Albert Lea could have its own Legion Riders chapter.

The chapter would be an opportunity not only for rides and camaraderie but also to strengthen families of soldiers. He was impressed that the group raises money for scholarships for family members of fallen soldiers who need help to go to college.

Halverson said one of his main goals this year as commander is to help veterans’ families.

The meeting will be at 1 p.m. at the American Legion on North Broadway.

Halverson said a representative from the district Legion Riders will be in attendance.

There are more than 1,500 American Legion Rider chapters nationwide. They have raised more than $5.27 million for the American Legion Legacy Fund. Average amounts raised by Riders have surpassed $750,000 annually. Riders also participate in fundraisers for local charitable organizations such as children’s hospitals, cancer camps and toy runs for children of war casualties.

They can provide escorts for military flights carrying servicemen and women home, along with teaching motorcycle skills and driver safety.

Membership is open to members of the American Legion, the American Legion Auxiliary and the Sons of the American Legion. The group began in Garden City, Michigan, in 1993.