RAR History

Morris Giddings (Founder) and a group of 9 other Charter members established Red Arrow Riders Motorcycle Association (RAR) in 2012. They consisted of Veterans and family members of Veterans whose desire was to support VFW Post 1527, local Veterans, their families etc. through fundraising and donations for those in need. The original Charter members were: Morris Giddings, Mike Lewis, Bruce Stockwell, Andy Wicklund, Gerry Cook, Don Boley, Jay DeGraff, Todd Bronson, Marty LaChapelle and Jeff DeGraff. RAR has conducted an annual “Charity Ride” every June since its formation. Recipients of funds raised from this event have been Wheeled Warrior ($850+), Talons Out Honor Flight ($9500+), Section Collection ($3100+) and Veteran Service Dog Org. ($2200). Donations have also been made to multiple local Veteran families in times of great need, i.e. funeral costs for a deceased Veteran, groceries for Veterans families when injury effect income, Xmas toys for children of Veteran in need, funds for cancer treatment of needy Veteran (all other Gov. resources had been exhausted or were unavailable) and the list goes on. RAR donates funds to VFW 1527 to assist with annual building operation costs, VFW 1527 fundraisers, and additionally to unexpected roof repair and fire damage that occurred in 2021. We host “Bike Nights” every other Friday evening at the outdoor Post Pavilion, between May and Sep, providing a safe, neutral environment for local bikers and friends to meet, relax and share good times. In 2023 RAR will host their 6 th Blessing of the Bikes event during the first week of May. Food, live entertainment, vendors, and Padre’s blessing are the highlights. Every Feb our “Chili Cookoff” competition occurs, always a favorite with many folks. During the Winter months, Oct through Apr, RAR holds a Pool Tournament twice monthly in the Post. In 2021 we began an “End of Season Bash” event in Sep to celebrate another riding seasons closure. This event has grown to include a free Bike Show and Car Show, winners selected by popular vote from attendees, food, and live band. Each of these ongoing events provides our “home”, VFW Post 1527, to raise significant income through beverage sales, attracting facility rentals, new members etc. This in turn allows them to help even more Veterans in our community during times of need. In 2020 RAR obtained Non-Profit status (MI & Federal) and and was granted 501c3 status (EIN 84-5110767) in Sep 2022.. Our Board of Directors consists of the President, VP, Treasurer, Secretary, and a Trustee. In 2021 RAR established a new membership category, “Auxiliary”, for those who do not ride motorcycles but wish to join and support this organization’s goals. Membership in either RAR, or RAR Auxiliary, is open to anyone, male, female, civilian, Veteran, or family member, 2 wheel or three-wheel bike, any make, etc… everyone is welcome.