For the past several years, Pete Alexander, a disabled veteran who served as a combat medic in the U.S. Army during Operation Desert Storm, has been somewhat isolated in his own home because he struggled to maneuver the outdoor stairs while wearing cuff crutches.

When the American Legion Riders from Post 626 in Birdsboro heard about Alexander's situation, they volunteered to construct an access ramp for him at his home in Fleetwood, which they completed during a workday on Oct. 23.

"He, for the most part, was shut in," said Chris Swenda, the Riders road captain and project manager. "He ... relied on his family and friends and neighbors for everything like picking up groceries. (Building the ramp) has done wonders for his independence. He is now able to get back out and do the things he enjoys doing, and the quality of life has greatly improved for Pete."

The local chapter of Legion Riders heard about Alexander from his neighbor Lisa Twadell. She contacted her friend Betty Kennedy, who is involved with the Riders and is a member of the Legion's Ladies Auxiliary.

"I am a carpenter by trade, and I took the measurements and drew up the blueprints and made a materials list," Swenda explained. "Once the chapter voted and approved the expenditure, I ordered the materials and had them delivered the day before the build."

Swenda noted that Alexander made his appreciation known during the workday. "He was very surprised (at the number of volunteers), and there were some tears," said Swenda.

The 40-foot ramp, made of pressure-treated lumber, was constructed in adherence to ADA standards. There is enough room for a wheelchair to turn around in the middle of the ramp and also at the top to provide plenty of room for Alexander to maneuver into his front door. "The whole thing took six hours, but many hands make light work," said Swenda, quoting a common phrase. "At the optimal time, we had 21 people there."

This is the first time that the Riders from Post 621 have constructed a ramp for a veteran. "That's what we at the Legion are supposed to be doing - helping veterans and (others) within our community as a whole," Swenda said.

The Riders are already planning to build another ramp at the home of someone in need. "This is where my heart is, and doing this for a fellow veteran takes it to a new level," said Swenda, who served in the U.S. Army. "It has (also) really shined some light on others in our group who discovered they have the same passion."

The American Legion Riders are motorcycle enthusiasts who belong to the American Legion, the Legion Auxiliary or the Sons of the American Legion. Post 626 is located at 445 E. Main St., Birdsboro. More information about the Legion Riders is available at http://www.facebook.com/Riders626. For more information about membership or to make a donation for the upcoming ramp building project, email alriders626@gmail.com.