American Freedom Tribute Wall

Hannibal’s American Legion Post 55 to host multi-era wall tribute and national legacy run for America’s 250th anniversary.

The Emmett J. Shields American Legion Post 55 is proud to announce it will host America’s Freedom Tribute Wall from August 24 through August 26, 2026. This historic community event is part of America’s 250th anniversary celebration and will feature a massive traveling memorial alongside a high-profile visit from hundreds of veteran motorcyclists.

The Tribute Wall features 170 panels honoring the heavy “Cost of Freedom,” specifically recognizing those who served in World War I, World War II, Vietnam, the Global War on Terrorism, and 9/11. The exhibition is free and fully open to the public.

To honor these service members, formal opening and closing ceremonies will take place each day of the event, featuring a rotation of different guest speakers sharing unique perspectives on military history and sacrifice.

To ensure a seamless experience for families, the post will also set up four dedicated computer assistance stations to help visitors quickly locate their loved ones’ names on the memorial wall panels. Additionally, Post 55 is coordinating an educational program alongside the display to share the history of these heroes with local students.

Adding to the week’s significance, Post 55 will welcome the National American Legion Riders on Tuesday, Aug. 25, 2026, during their annual National Legacy Run. Celebrating its 20th anniversary, this grueling 1,000+ mile motorcycle journey begins in Lincoln, Nebraska, and concludes near Louisville, Kentucky. The run brings together more than 300 veterans and Legion family members to raise vital funds for the Veterans & Children Foundation, a cause that raised over $855,000 last year alone.

Community Photo Submission: “Our HEROES Wall:” In conjunction with the traveling memorial, Post 55 is constructing a localized “Our HEROES Wall” and invites the public to submit photos of their veteran loved ones. To prevent loss or damaged, strictly no original photographs please. Photocopies can be mailed in advance to the post address below or hand-delivered to venue staff when attending the event.

Event Details Dates: Aug. 24–26, 2026 (Riders arrive August 25) Location: American Legion Post 55, 3819 Highway MM, Hannibal, MO 63401 Admission: Free and open to the public

Let’s Never Forget.