St. Regis American Legion cleans up highway

ST. REGIS – Veterans of the Ray Welch Post 13 in St. Regis decided it was time to take out the trash.

On May 3, Legion members filled large industrial sized garbage bags, the ones typically used for leaf pickup in the fall. They started from the I-90 on and off ramps traveling by foot. The volunteers spent the remainder of the day going up-and-down the highway one mile in each direction.

The crew finished the day with some six bags of trash from the off ramp coming from the west.

Each year the Legion decides to do this event because many of the veteran members are tired of the littering in their community. By giving back, they are hopeful that their cause will help the environment, and also stop people from polluting the roads and forests in western Montana. 

“Drivers speeding down the highway can’t see most of the trash,” said Bobby Carroll, commander of the American Legion. 

Members of the club spent all day not only hiking along the roadway, but the older members also had to climb down through ditches and rough terrain just to get a hold of the trash they so coveted. For those who had trouble walking, a driver was readily available to help them along. 

While the summer months are just ahead and many travelers and outdoor enthusiasts will take to the trails, roads and woods, the Legion hopes people will remember to properly dispose of their trash.

The pickup is a yearly event. But, if people eventually stop littering, the members would still participate in some cleanup event. 

The Legion wants to pitch-in, and it’s also not a bad thing for the crew to get outside, breathe in the fresh air and get some exercise as well.  

Even though the troop had fun and enjoyed participating in the event, the goal each year is to come back with less bags of trash. 

The veteran’s goal is to pick up as much trash as possible. The American Legion members must also endure the elements which may include inclement weather, and the safety of having to walk close to the side of the road of the area’s busiest highways. 

Even with the hazards involved, there are no complaints coming from any of the volunteers. They suit up in their green and silver reflective vests and walk side by side like a garbage-picking cavalry.  

At the end of the day, even though exhaustion sets in, the veterans are proud of yet another accomplishment.

The American Legion is more than a club, or a senior center for veterans, but a way that these volunteers who once fought for our freedom are still finding a way to continue to help. 

The American Legion always sponsors volunteer events throughout the year, including monthly meetings. Prospective members are encouraged to stop by as the Legion offers a supportive environment for those who once served.