TAMPA, Fla. — The National American Legion Convention kicked off Friday in Downtown Tampa.

This is the organization’s 106th annual gathering where delegates will approve constitutional changes, pass programs, elect national officers and participate in workshops and classes that focus on veterans-related issues.

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Five men cycled 1,300 miles in 21 days to raise awareness about PTSD

The end of the ride coincided with the 106th National American Legion Convention in Tampa

The ride for PTSD is one of the ways the American Legion is raising awareness through its Be The One initiative

While the convention is just beginning, another related event has come to an end. The 2nd Annual American Legion Ride for PTSD.

After 21 days on the road, a team of five riders ended the nearly 1,300-mile journey in Tampa on Saturday to a cheering crowd

Starting in their home state of Texas, then east through Louisiana, Alabama and Mississippi – with stops along the way – the band of veteran brothers arrived in Tampa.

“It was a fantastic trip. We got to visit so many people, so many different posts with the American Legion. We got to go to VFW posts,” said Jeff Perkins, the team’s leader.

Their mission was to raise $1 million in support of PTSD treatments for veterans and to put a spotlight on the urgent need for more resources related to both PTSD and suicide prevention.

“We want to reduce the number of suicides. Not only among veterans, but first responders too,” Perkins said.

The ride for PTSD is one of the ways the American Legion is raising awareness through its Be The One initiative.

According to James A. LaCoursiere, the National Commander of the American Legion, it truly is a mission.

“It’s a mission to save a life of a veteran. To let them know it’s OK to not be OK, as long as we’re there with them and for them during their time of need,” LaCoursiere said.

The mission, he said, is rooted in compassion, heart and the utilization of our senses.

“What I mean by that is listening to them, speaking with them sincerely, compassionately and honestly. Letting them know, ‘I will not leave your side, brother or sister, until I know for damn sure you’re OK,’” LaCoursiere said.