Kansas Legion Rider Michael Haas dies following motorcycle crash

AMERICAN LEGION

The American Legion Riders lost one of their own on Tuesday. But his name will forever be a part of the 2026 Legacy Run – and will serve as an inspiration to complete the ride.

Michael Haas, a member of Arden H. McKee Post 128 in Sterling, Kan., and a member of the Legacy Run’s road guard, died on Tuesday as a result of injuries he sustained while in motorcycle accident during the ride’s morning leg to Keokuk.

National American Legion Riders Chairman and Legacy Run Chief Road Captain David Heredia Jr. shared the news during Tuesday’s final stop at Post 55 in Hannibal, Mo. He said Michael would want the ride to continue.

“I know it’s hard. But the mission must go on,” Heredia said. “On our way to Terre Haute, and finally, on our way to Louisville. That doesn’t mean that we don’t have to grieve. It doesn’t mean that we don’t have to remember our friend. And to honor our brother who was with us this morning and is now with our heavenly father, we’re going to continue this mission.

“We’re going to remember his name. His beautiful smile. His goofy antics. And we’re going to continue this mission in his name. Because that’s who we are.”

Heredia said that Michael’s wife, Terri, was able to be by his side before he passed. “Speaking with his beautiful wife, she couldn’t have said it any better,” Heredia said. “When Mike left home, she was always antsy. But this time she was at peace. And he got to hear his wife’s beautiful voice before his passing. And she said, ‘Mike passed doing what he loved.’ Being with his extended family, carrying on a mission that’s important to him, as it is important to all of us.”

Legacy Run Chaplain Brian Duncan said that while it’s hard to comprehend life ending so quickly and unexpectedly, “There’s a father who knows better. Who’s more knowledgeable. Who sees things that we can’t see. Who understands things that we can’t understand. And he said, ‘It’s time to leave. It’s time to go home.’ … and be safe with the one that is best for (him).”