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Run For The Wall® Podcast Season 2 Episode 8 – What’s New On Midway w/ Ed “Wind Dog” Brundage

Run For The Wall Podcast

Run For The Wall® Podcast Season 2 Episode 8 – What’s New On Midway w/ Ed “Wind Dog” Brundage.

Wind Dog joins us once again as the RC for Midway Route. In this episode he shares a little more about Midway traditions and changes for 2026. If you missed his first visit on the podcast and would like to learn more about him and his personal RFTW journey check out the Season 1 episode “Midway Captured My Soul.”

Whether you ride, serve, or simply remember, press play and let’s go ALL THE WAY!

Looking for the Run For The Wall Song? CLICK HERE!

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU!

Your stories keep RFTW alive. Whether you have ridden with us, supported us, or simply want to ask Boots and Hitch a question, we would love to hear your voice.

Share your experiences, memories and questions by writing to us at pod@rftw.us. Together we can continue to Ride For Those Who Can’t.

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Midway’s Mid-month Roundup – December 2025

‘Twas the night before Christmas, and all through the land, not a motor was stirring, except for Boots with a wrench in his hand (still fine tuning his new trans).

All the riders’ stockings were hung by the chimney with care, next to their pants, gloves, boots and coats still drying out from the day’s last wet run, in hopes that they’d be dry for the morning’s new day, new toys and more fun. 

The riders and bikes were nestled and parked, all snug in their beds and their stalls,
While visions of warmer days, longer rides, and May coming closer danced in their heads (and before we know it, it’ll be next week)

And I in my recliner, a spiked coffee in hand,
As I pull up past photos, Facebook posts and YouTube videos, and remember the fun from last summer, to help my brain cope through a long winter’s nap.

When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter, no it sounded like thunder; wait a minute, I recognize that rumbling sound from Harley’s down under, those are PIPEs!

I sprang from my chair, my coffee and phone still in each hand, being careful not to spill while turning off the flash to record in full scan.
Away to the front door I threw it open in a flash, letting all the cold air in, a bit of snow, and that darn cat.

The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow, gave the luster of mid-day to the objects below. But wait, there was no moon this night, so where was the glowing coming from; oh wait, now I can see, it was Ryan and his band of Road Guards close in behind him, two by two, and then by three.

And finally, a single lone rider trailed slightly to the rear, but larger than life, it was Midway’s RC, Wind Dog, and he even had his new beard. 
He whistled and he shouted, and called Ryan by name, “Guide us on in as all will need to hear, A message for all, as we approach the new year!”

“Calling all Platoon Leaders, APLs and Tail Gunners!
Chaplains, Outreach and Ambassadors as well!
All Medics, Hydration and Chase members!
Advance Teams, Fuel Teams, and Staging Teams too!
New riders and Old riders, FNGs and FOGs
State Coordinators, Photographer, and even the SITREP Writer too!
Prepare yourself for a new year, a fun year, and an incredible ride through and through!”

As they rode through the streets and spread their good cheer, 
A holiday message was becoming clear to hear.

‘Hold close your family, loved ones and friends,
Thank those that provide for us, protect us and care,
Keeping us free from tyranny, injustice and out of harm’s way.
Have yourself a Merry Christmas and remember the true meaning for which we come together on this day.’

He then turned back to his team and gave them a whistle,
And away they all rode, in formation and official. 
As they started away, I heard him exclaim with delight, “Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night!”

I slowly turned in and began to close the door, and I heard a final crackle of a voice, as if over a radio if by choice, “Midway! This ride is for you!”

I smiled to myself in a personal discussion, ‘this will be a great post’
had I only pressed that darn button…

-FNGs! (Fun New Guys/Gals)

All new riders! We will be having a FNG ZOOM meeting on Dec 16 at 5pm (Pacific Time). If you have not yet received an invite, please get with Roger Ford for details: roger.ford1234@gmail

-Midway Leadership Messages

Looking for a few good riders who are willing to step and support our mission in a leadership position. You can find volunteer sign up forms on the Midway web page. The following positions are available: Promotions Team, Medical team, Staging Team, Chase vehicle (Midway will pay for gas from Ontario to DC), Honor Guard Coordinator, Oklahoma Assistant state Coordinator.

2026 Hotel List

The 2026 hotel list will be available on the Midway web page on Jan 1st. 

Note* The host hotel rates are guaranteed with a contract, all other hotels rates are not guaranteed as time gets closer to KSU. They may change, which means you should make hotel reservations as soon as possible.

Registration

We currently have just over 125 personnel registered for this years adventure

Please do not forget your registration rates will increase on Feb 1st. Please take advantage of the early bird special currently in place. As a reminder:

 

$100.00 early bird, Now through Jan 31,2026 (Please register early)

$120.00 starting Feb 1,2026

$100.00 Day riders for up to three days

Why is the Midway route special?

Midway is a family-oriented route and your routes leaderships guiding principle is “Servant Leadership” which means everything your assigned leaders do is with you, the riders, in mind. We collectively want you to have a healing adventure that you will tell your grandchildren about and maybe influence them to come ride the Midway route in the future and see what Dad, Mom, G-Pa, G-Ma are so excited about. You will find those “Patriots” who built and defended America through all its past and current conflicts in its desire to spread the freedom we cherish, all across this great nation. You will ride with ‘Gold Star” family members. A Gold Star Family is defined as the immediate family of a U.S. military service member who died in the line of duty. 

Blue star family members,

Blue Star Families are the immediate families of U.S. military members currently serving during periods of conflict.

POW family members, Current active-duty servicemen/women, retired military from all branches, Public safety personnel from Law enforcement, Fire Department and many, many patriots.

 

Welcome to the family!!

 

As I am sure you can understand, developing this cross-country adventure is not cheap.

If you could possibly be so kind and to approach your Philanthropic section/department at work and see if they would be willing to support this great enterprise which is easily definable by showing our mission statement to all who will listen. Just donating enough for one fuel stop would help all riders tremendously. It would be greatly appreciated. Thank You!!!

 

If you find it within your heart to support RFTW Midway Route, please consider donating.  This will help make RFTW 2026 and the Gulf War Run a complete success. Ensure your donation is marked for the Midway route. Once again, and this is very important, please ensure “Midway Route” is marked on your donation.

You can also Zelle a donation directly to: midway.route@rftw.us
*Most banks now support Zelle transfers.

Or mail a check to:
Run for the Wall Inc.
Midway Route
50 Fourth Ave Unit 1445
Dayton, NV 89403

Run For The Wall® Inc. EIN 36-4125559
Run For The Wall® is a 501(c)(3) tax deductible organization.

Until next time, 

Ride Smart

Ride Safe

Keep the rubber side down & the shiny side up!

 

~Is it May yet? Then again, everyday is May if you let it. 

Merry Christmas Everyone!

 

Ben ‘Stitch’ Noyce

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December 2025 Sandbox Route Coordinator Newsletter

Dear Sandbox Riders, Families, and Friends,

It’s hard to believe 2025 is almost over!  Planning and preparation for RFTW Sandbox Route 2026 is well underway, with State Coordinators working hard to ensure our supporters are fully prepared for our arrival in May.  Our Team Leaders are busy getting their teams together and doing the things that will make us successful as we execute the 5th running of Sandbox Route next year.  We still have openings available in all teams, so if you’d like to contribute to RFTW in a meaningful way, fill out a Volunteer Application on the website, and we’ll get back to you ASAP!

The Wall

Our final destination is the Middle East Conflicts Wall Memorial (MECWM), located in Marseilles, Illinois.  This tribute to brave US servicemembers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in conflicts since 1967 includes over 8,000 names engraved on granite slabs along the banks of the Illinois River.  It is a memorial to “those who lost their lives in various conflicts, including Panama, Lebanon, the Balkans, Grenada, Somalia, Haiti, USS Victory, USS Cole, USS Stark, the terrorist attacks in Italy, Greece, Scotland, and the War on Terror” (www.middleeastconflictswallmemorial.org).

The MECWM is the first U.S. War Monument established while the conflicts are ongoing and is a living memorial, with names added every year.  It was established in 2004 on private land, with private funds by members of the Illinois Motorcycle Freedom Run, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization.  These patriots observed anti-war protests forming in Chicago in 2002 and continuing through the course of the Global War on Terror.  Through their hard work and dedication, the MECWM was built entirely by volunteers as “a heartfelt tribute to the brave men and women who sacrificed to protect our freedom.”

The Wall is a powerful place.  It is solemn and profound and affects everybody in different ways.  Whether you know someone memorialized in the granite or not, you can feel the energy of this heartfelt tribute and begin to understand the cost of our freedom.  Many of our riders have a close, personal connection to this memorial, and much like the Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial in D.C., it can have a strong emotional impact that demands our respect.  It is up to us to prepare for this experience and help those who may be affected by it.  Say their names, never forget!  This is why we ride.

Prepaid Fuel

As we did last year, prepaid fuel will be mandatory for all Sandbox riders this year.  This system allows for a significantly expedited process at the pumps, which results in more time for riders to take care of themselves at each fuel stop.  The cost will be very similar to last year, but won’t be available until early 2026, as we monitor fuel prices approaching the summer of 2026.

Volunteers Needed

We have some critical positions that need to be filled before we go kickstands up in May.  Although Peppermint Patty has agreed to be our Sitrep writer and Social Media Coordinator, I’d like to find someone to help her with those positions, preferably the Social Media Coordinator.  If you understand how to get our message out on various social media platforms, representing Sandbox Route and RFTW in a positive light, and would be willing to help, please contact me ASAP.

We’re also looking for someone to help with 50/50 drawings, a position commonly referred to as the “50/50 Rouser.”  This position involves selling drawing tickets while on the Run, giving our participants an opportunity to win 50% of the money taken in.  The other 50% will be added to our Route funds and will be used for charitable donations along the route.  This fundraising, combined with auctions and generous donations, is essential to our success as a Route.  Every little bit helps, so please carry cash and give as much as you can!

We’re also looking for someone to act as our “Friends of Bill W.” coordinator.  This is a very specific position, requiring specialized knowledge and experience.  Only individuals who are familiar with and involved in this program should apply.

Registration

Registration numbers continue to track slightly lower than they were at this time last year.  Our registration fee this year is $40 per person until January 31, when it will increase to $60.  Please take advantage of this “Early Bird Registration” program by getting registered by the end of January.  Your early registration will also allow us to keep our supporters informed of our projected numbers so they can plan accordingly.  Another benefit of early registration is your early assignment to a team or platoon.  This will allow our leaders to contact you, answer any questions, and help you get prepared for May.

Fundraising

We’re still looking for collectible, unique items that we can use to help us raise funds to support our mission.  If you know of anybody who might be able to donate such items, please let them know it would be very much appreciated and help us make donations of our own to our supporters and other worthwhile charitable organizations we encounter along the way.  Once we get items together, we’ll decide how they can best support us and figure out a way to offer them to our riders through auctions and drawings.

I encourage you to keep working on your personal preparation as you enjoy the holiday season.  Now is the time as we approach the end of 2025, with May just around the corner!

Have a great December, and I look forward to seeing you all next year!

Leo “Clutch” Rachmel
Run For The Wall XXXVI
Sandbox Route Coordinator

 

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President’s Message – December 2025

Presidents Message, Santa Clause riding in a Huey

It is so quiet as I sit here watching the snowfall. Sometimes, this is one of my favorite times of year. Nature is sleeping, recovering from a season of harvest, providing us with sustenance and beauty. As the snow falls, the silence is so profound. Not a bird or animal is moving. For a moment, everything is at peace. But darn, it is cold!!

RFTW Mission Statement

To promote healing among ALL veterans and their families and friends, to call for an accounting of all Prisoners of War and those Missing in Action (POW/MIA), to honor the memory of those Killed in Action (KIA) from all wars, and to support our military personnel all over the world.

RFTW Philosophy

We strive to maintain a safe, supportive and private atmosphere in which all participants can reflect and heal on their journey to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington D.C. and the Middle East Conflicts Wall Memorial in Marseilles, Illinois in the hope they can return home to a new beginning.

This can be a busy time of year for many, decorating the house and yard, visiting relatives, and maybe hosting friends and family. Thinking of those who are no longer with us, remembering the times we shared. While I don’t want to add to the list, this is a great time to start preparing for the upcoming Run. KSU is in 161 days – less than 6 months. If you listen to The RFTW Podcast with Boots and Hitch, Ted offers tech tips in each episode, focusing on keeping us safe and making sure our bikes and bodies are ready for a cross-country event. Riding on the Run is similar to any trip in that each rider is responsible for their motorcycle’s mechanical condition and the health of their bodies and minds. We should be working on both our bikes and ourselves so we can perform our annual Mission safely when the time comes. Yes, we have chase trailers, but they are meant to help ensure a rider can reach the next dealer. The chase trucks are not there to transport you to DC or back home. Tires, cables, lights, oil, forks, and loose bolts or nuts should all be carefully reviewed to help ensure your bike is ready.  Waiting until you arrive in Ontario is probably not a good option.  While the dealers in the Ontario area are very helpful, there is only so much they can do in the short time we are there.

The RFTW forums have been quiet; it seems folks wait until we are closer to the Run to start asking questions and sharing information.  But regardless of the time of year, there is a lot of great information in the various forum topic areas. As you begin your Run preparations, check out the forums for thoughts and ideas from your fellow riders!

Another item added to the website is our Events calendar.  Looking for something close to you? Check it out here!

As I hope all campers have heard, camping at the Elks in Ontario is full.  Registration for Run 2026 is open.  The rates were adjusted for 2026 as follows:

C2C

  1. $100 – Early Bird
  2. $120 – Regular Reg (starting Feb 1)
  3. $100 – Day riders (up to 3 days on the road riding)

W2W

  1. $40 – Early Bird
  2. $60 – Regular Reg (starting Feb 1)
  3. Day riders pay regular rates

Besides saving you money, registering early is very helpful to our State Coordinators. Those dedicated volunteers who work so hard to feed and house us need as much advance notice as possible about the number of riders coming. You can register on our website just as you have in the past.  On 1 February, the registration rates increase, so registering early is one way you can help us and help yourself.

As of this newsletter, the hotel list is still scheduled to drop on 1 January.

I hope no one has fallen victim to spam that frequents our email system. Please keep a few things in mind: A leader in RFTW will NEVER ask you to buy gift cards for them. We don’t do business that way. Every invoice is processed through our Treasurer. Bob doesn’t handle gift cards. More importantly, check the sender’s email address. We ONLY conduct business using our official RFTW email. You can help reduce this spam. If you get a suspicious email, especially if it’s not from our official addresses, you should be able to report it as spam or phishing through your email system. We encourage you to do so. Also, as I often do, my preferred email reader lets me mark emails as junk, and if I get another from the same address, it goes directly to trash. Another issue not related to email: protect your online identity by ensuring your user ID is unique and that you’re not using the same password across multiple sites. Using your firstname/lastname as a user ID might be convenient, but that’s the first step someone takes to hack your account. Even using lastname/first initial—or some variation—is not enough to keep you safe.

As we’ve recently publicized, we are still looking for a new Treasurer.  Our financial records are essential for our charitable ratings and IRS status. Although we don’t aim to make a profit (since we are a nonprofit), we are required to file taxes and an annual Form 990, so keeping accurate financial records is crucial to our continued success and survival. Bob Nelson, our current Treasurer, has worked hard to continue to improve our bookkeeping processes. If you’re interested in the position or in becoming an Assistant, please get in touch with Bob at treasurer@rftw.us.

POW/MIA Recovery Update (as of 2 December 2025): The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) continues its dedicated efforts to recover and identify remains from all conflicts.  As of this update, there are still 1566 missing from the Vietnam War, along with six missing from the Gulf War and Libya. Our four-part Mission begins with the call for accounting – those servicemembers are our friends, their families are our families, and they deserve our support.

Let us dedicate ourselves and our efforts and remember to keep our focus on the Mission. It is why we ride!

Staying focused on our Mission can be challenging at times. We frequently receive suggestions to take a stand on issues that might be considered political, but our 501(c)(3) status prohibits us from endorsing any particular political position. We work hard to remain centered on the content of our Mission Statement. Although some have tried to convince us that calling for accountability for all POW/MIAs is a political statement, it is not. There are no politics involved in demanding that our government honor the sacrifice of those who are unaccounted for; it isn’t a political matter. Believe me, the Board has discussed issues that could be beneficial, but we cannot pursue them without losing sight of our Mission.

As I wrap up this newsletter, we wish everyone a peaceful and joyful holiday season. RFTW is a brotherhood, a family, and we should keep that in mind. Regardless of individual beliefs, each of you is important to all of us…We care!

It is not the worst thing to die in war; it is not the worst thing to be missing in war. The worst thing is to be forgotten in War.

‘No one left behind’ is more than just a standard we strive to meet. It is a way of life. It is part of our Mission. If you or someone you know finds themselves struggling with mental health, please know you can contact the VA Veteran’s Crisis Line by dialing 988, then pressing 1, or texting 838255 to speak or chat with a qualified responder.

TurkeyJohn “Turkey” Staub
President, RFTW, Inc.
2011- CR FNG
2012 – CR Participant
2013 – CR Staging Team
2014 – 2015 – CR Staging Team Ass’t. Lead
2016-2017 – CR Staging Team Lead
2022 – CR Platoon Coordinator
2023-2025 – CR/SB Road Guard

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December 2025 Central Route Coordinator Newsletter

The holiday season has begun, and amid shopping for gifts, family gatherings, and ongoing meetings, our RFTW preparations are progressing smoothly with 163 days remaining until KSU.

Here is a summary of the important reminders.

Registration Fees Increase: If you haven’t registered yet, please do so soon.  The registration fee will increase to $120 on February 1, 2026. Our Registration Teams and Platoon Leaders will start working on Platoon assignments after January 1st.  Do not delay!

Hotel Information: The list of available hotels is being prepared by the State Coordinators and is set to be released on January 1, 2026.

Events: Looking for an RFTW event near you?  Events can be found here.

Merchandise: Looking for that unique Holiday Gift?  The merchandise page is a great place to find RFTW gifts to put under the tree or motorcycle.

Volunteers: Volunteers are still needed for positions!  If you’re interested, please submit a sign up here!

Central Outreach Route Video: If ever wondered why the Outreach Team did or why they would eat and run, GI Jane and Spaniard produced a video documenting their interactions, representing all riders on the Run, with 53 Gold Star families during the last Run. It is located here:

Be sure to check out the RFTW Podcasts, forums, Facebook page for up-to-date information.

Remember to honor and remember all those who serve and sacrifice for our country as well as to help those who are still fighting the war inside them.

My thoughts are with the 108 military personnel who died in service in 2025, and their grieving families who will have an empty seat at the table this year. As well as the approximately 200,000 active duty and reserve personnel currently serving overseas, many of which are away from their loved ones during the holidays.

Their sacrifice, dedication, and service to our Country is forever valued and will not be forgotten.

 

Mission Statement

To promote healing among all veterans and their family and friends
Call for an accounting of all Prisoners of War & Missing in Action (POW/MIA)
Honor the memory of those Killed in Action (KIA)
Support our military people all over the world.

The 126th Army-Navy Game honors the 250th Anniversary of the founding of the Army Navy with each team having their own special uniform for the event.

Go Navy! Beat Army!

Have a Happy Hanukkah and Merry Christmas!

Is it May yet?

Jim “Who?” McDonough
XXXVI Central Route Coordinator

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RFTW Southern Route Newsletter December 2025

Run For The Wall Mission

To promote healing among all veterans and their families and friends

Call for an accounting of all Prisoners of War & Missing in Action (POW/MIA)

Honor the memory of those Killed in Action (KIA)

Support our military people all over the world

 

Hey Southern Route riders and those who are checking out this month’s newsletter.  I hope everyone had a “full-filling” Thanksgiving.  We’re getting there! There are just 163 days left to KSUE, and then it’s off to the East Coast.  We’ll stop at towns, visit memorials, stop by Veterans homes, check in with various schools along our route, and remember those who have sacrificed their lives so we can live our lives in this great country.

REGISTRATION

I strongly encourage those who have yet to register to take advantage of the Early Bird registration, which runs through 31 January 2026, at a fee of $100.  I hope all those who have not registered yet to take advantage of the Early Bird price.  The Regular Registration begins 1 February 2026 and the fee is $120.  Knowing how many riders we have is crucial for our State Coordinators to know as they work with the folks along the route who donate their time and money making the Southern Route so successful.  Just think, with that extra $20, you might be able to buy a snack or top off your scooter before attending the morning meeting.  HYDRATE!

The Sandbox Route will have an Early Bird fee of $40 through 31 January 2026 and the Regular fee will be $60 beginning 1 February 2026.  I’ve registered for both routes on 11 September 2025 and I’m looking forward to the Sandbox Route as this will be my first year.  Link to register is Here.

MISCELLANEOUS, but worth repeating

As always, prior to the Run, keep a few things in mind.  Keep up the maintenance on your bike/trike.  If you take medicines to keep you purring at top efficiency, make sure you check with your Primary Care Physician (PCP) to ensure you have enough meds to cover the entire time you’ll be gone.  Depending on your travel plans before and after The Run, you might have to have your refills sent to a pharmacy in a town you’ll be visiting.      HYDRATE!

We’ve had an excellent volunteer response this year and are still receiving Volunteer Forms.  We still need a few more in both the Fuel Team, the Staging Team, a daily reporter (Sit-Rep Writer), a Social Media person, plus we need an additional person for our medical team.  If you are interested in any of these positions, please send us your Volunteer Form.  If applying for Medical, you’ll need proper credentials.

The GMRS (General Mobile Radio Service) is the communication system RFTW uses.  As with the CBs we used in the past, if you are not in a leadership slot, you can only listen.  Listening will allow you to know what’s going to happen and what IS happening.

MORE STUFF

Did you know we have RFTW Podcasts?  Tai “Hitch” Harmon and Ted “Boots” Kapner are the podcast gurus for The Run.  Tune-in as they cover many topics.  Angie “Den Mother” Holterman is the new Director of Merchandise (deals all over the place) and Alan “Xbox” Steiner switched over to take over as Director of Operations.

REMEMBERANCE

Once again, it is with a heavy heart that I regret to inform everyone that my friend and the Route Coordinator for the 2025 Southern Route, Lennie “Big Red” Hodson, has passed away due to cardiac complications.

He held many positions while participating in Run For The Wall from pack rider to Route Coordinator.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Linda and her family and friends.  There will be a gathering on 1 December 2025, at American Legion Post 34 in Cave Creek, AZ prior to Lennie’s interment ceremony the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona at 1230.  Please arrive at least 30 minutes prior to the service.

Although it has been a tough fall season for the Southern Route, we look forward to the Christmas season as it’s a time when we can gather again to celebrate with family and friends.  And you never know, you might find a new motorcycle waiting for you under the tree!  Stranger things have happened!

Merry Christmas to all and to all a goodnight!

Thank you, riders, for your support for Run for The Wall and the Sothern Route.

Is it May yet!

We ride for those who can’t!

Ride safe!

David “Buzz” Mullen
SR RC 2026

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Midway Route Coordinator Newsletter – December 2025

164 Days to KSU!

My Christmas wish to you

To friends who feel like family close,
You’re the people I love the most.
In laughter’s light, in joy we share,
You’re my rock, my solid care.
With every year, our bond grows strong,
Through merry right and every wrong.
Thank you, dear friends, for all you bring,
The joy of life, the song we sing.
So here’s a toast to holiday cheer,
Grateful for you, year after year.
Together, let’s make memories bright,
Merry Christmas to friends, pure delight.

May your Christmas be filled with joy and happiness shared with family and friends.

“Never forget the reason for the season”

For you new riders and FNGs, in the next coming month or two, you will be contacted by our Platoon Coordinator and your Platoon Leader.  We like to pre-assign platoons before you join us, so you will know who your platoon leader will be and what platoon you’ll be in.  You will be then able to get to know your platoon mates and leaders before you even show up.

Additionally, all FNG’s will be contacted by our FNG Coordinator and Missing Man Coordinator in the next month to start an education on the many opportunities afforded you as a member of the Midway family including probably a few zoom calls to pass on critical information and answer any of your questions.

The Missing Man Formation

The Missing Man Formation is a rolling salute to honor the memory of the fallen, KIA, MIA, or POW. Five bikes ride in formation with a space where one bike should be, symbolizing the person’s absence. On each leg of each route we honor a different individual in the Missing Man Formation. There is a short ceremony just prior to the departure of the pack and we SAY THEIR NAMES so that their service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

You will also notice that the riders participating in the Missing Man Formation do not wave at onlookers while riding in formation. Their ride is solemn and sincere – a rolling salute. This is the highest form of honor and respect and serves as a stark reminder of those who sacrificed their future for that of our nation. May their memories always be a blessing and may we never forget that freedom is not free.

RFTW Missing man formation

Route Planning

I can report that planning is going as smoothly as can be at this stage with us 6 months out from kickstands up in May 2026.  All our State Coordinators have finalized our overnight stays with our partner hotels from Arizona to Virginia (CA and DC Hotels are handled by the BoD), and they continue to work hard for fuel stops, donations, and working with our meal provider volunteers.

Arlington National Cemetery

It is looking like we will officially be able to get into Arlington National Cemetery again for an official wreath laying.  There will be more specific details on this regarding number of people and number of bikes we will be allowed.

Midway Route Honors

Remember, this is going to be a very special Run in 2026 because it is the 36th Annual Run of RFTW and it is the 35th Anniversary of the end of the Gulf War.  Again, as a reminder due to these special anniversaries, we are making an extra effort to salute and honor our Gulf War Veterans this year. Many made personal sacrifices on the altar of freedom. They are a major part of the reason we ride today.

The RFTW Forum is BACK and BETTER than ever!

This is where online RFTW discussion should happen.

The new and improved RFTW Forum is up and running.  This is the FIRST place you should go and ask online questions about RFTW, Routes, Discuss, etc.  It is a much better online community tool to keep topics organized. Facebook groups are great, but topics get lost in long threads. The RFTW Forum should be your first go to.  It’s yours, it’s free, so please go and register and use

 2026 Hotel List

The hotel list officially will be released in early January, exact date to follow. Remember, if some places are full, there are always neighboring hotels and options that may not be on the list. Let Google be your friend.

Register for the 2026 Run now

The Midway Route now has over 100 registered riders and participants. This is just a little less than we had at this time last year. This means that if you have not registered yet, please do so as soon as possible. Early registration helps us plan for our stops and hotel accommodations. Early registration ends on January 31, 2026, and registration costs increase on February 1, 2026. You can Register HERE.  If you are in leadership, please register now and Lead by example.  If you are an FNG, please register as early as you can.  We know plans can change. PLEASE REGISTER AS SOON AS POSSIBLE!!!!

We are one team and one family with a Mission.

Riders!  Now is the time to recruit participants for the 2026 Run.  You are all ambassadors and recruiters for the Run.  Please get the word out and actively promote the Run. Challenge your friends, join a local riding group and bring them with you. Put your significant other in the number two seat and bring them with you on this adventure.

This ride will be different from any you have done before. It will change you in many ways. All positive!!!!! There are SO many patriots out there that want to say “Thank You” and show you that they care about you. Lots of them want to give you a hug! I will never turn that down!!!

Our Mission

“To promote healing among ALL veterans and their families and friends, to call for an accounting of all Prisoners of War and those Missing in Action (POW/MIA), to honor the memory of those Killed in Action (KIA) from all wars, and to support our military personnel all over the world.”

If you find it within your heart to support Run for the Wall and RFTW Midway Route, please consider making a donation.  This will help make RFTW 2026 and the Gulf War Run a complete success. Ensure your donation is marked for the Midway route

You can also Zelle a donation directly to: midway.route@rftw.us
*Most banks now support Zelle transfers.

Or mail a check to:
Run for the Wall Inc.
Midway Route
50 Fourth Ave Unit 1445
Dayton, NV 89403

Run For The Wall® Inc. EIN 36-4125559
Run For The Wall® is a 501(c)(3) tax deductible organization.

I wish you and your families the very best this Christmas and Holiday Season and seeing you all in May 2026!

“Say Their Name”      “Tell Their Story”         “ Never Forget”

Ed “Wind Dog” Brundage
Midway Route Coordinator 2025, 2026
Advanced Team Lead 2023 – 2024
Fuel Team Lead, Assist Team lead, Team Member 2015 – 2022
Central Route 2009 – 2013
FNG 2008

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Midway’s Mid-month Roundup – November 2025

And just like that, we are in the holiday season. I personally want to extend my thoughts, prayers, and thanks to all of my brothers and sisters out there, Happy Veterans Day!

The mural above was just completed in Goldsboro, NC, a tribute to the Heroes of our country, this one painted by one of our very own Midway riders within the Chaplain Corp, Boyce ‘Brush Stroke McKinney. Brush Stroke has always had an artistic eye and a steady brush, each stroke of paint a testament of true craftsmanship, talent, and passion. One of many murals and paintings accomplished, this one is not only visible to the public, but also our Heroes in the air as the placement is only a half mile from the end of the Seymour Johnson Air Force Base runway, reminding everyone just home much that our Heroes are appreciated. These are symbols and reminders that our veterans are our Heroes. Thank you, Brush Stroke, for creating this masterpiece and sharing it with everyone.

Thanksgiving is less than a week away, a time that can mark the beginning of a season of stress, even though we all know it is a time to be grateful for family, blessings, and other aspects to reflect on during the holiday season. 

When I look back in my life and see the same thing everyone else was taught, historically speaking, Thanksgiving is modeled after the harvest in 1621 and feast between the Wampanoag people and the English colonists, which was a moment of survival and alliance after a difficult year. Today, it is most often a time for families and friends to gather, share a meal, and express gratitude for one another and for the gifts in their lives. 

I remember when I became an NCO (Non-Commissioned Officer and supervisor for the non-military folks), my wife and I reached out to Airmen living in the dorms, alone for the holidays, and invited them to be with us for Thanksgiving, to be a part of a family and not alone. It was a simple gesture, but it went a long way to share our blessings. This time of year, has been ingrained into us as family oriented and coming together. To be alone or away from family and friends can do many things, however compassion and simple gestures can make a significant difference.

Many of us will be traveling in the coming days along with millions of others. As to be expected, things will happen, schedules and plans will be changed, delayed, or even cancelled for known or even unknown reasons; and tensions will rise. Unfortunately, this will be out of our control and folks will lash out, it’s human nature. But rather than adding to that negative energy, try to be understanding, even though you may not understand it yourself (guilty here too). Just try and remember that the folks passing on the information are usually just the messenger and not the cause of the event. There’s no reason to ruin their day, and yours, and the next person in contact. Words of encouragement, thanks, and even a smile can go a long way and sometimes reverse a negative action. Passing on that bit of gratitude can express thanks as well as become contagious with the next person. 

So, with everything that is going on in the world today, take a moment this week and just self-reflect. Remember that the overall meaning and theme of Thanksgiving is Unity, coming together, particularly during times of division, to celebrate shared blessings. 

Happy Thanksgiving to Everyone. May our Midway Family and extended families have a wonderful and safe holiday. Please be safe, patient, and understanding.  

-Meetup Schedules & Locations

Got a meetup schedule that you would like scheduled? Contact me with dates & locations bnoyce1213@gmail.com

-FNGs! (Fun New Guys/Gals)

For all those folks that have signed up for their first ride, whether coast to coast, wall to wall, or even just a leg or a day; WELCOME to the MIDWAY FAMILY! 

You are in for an unforgettable adventure of a lifetime. Our route, just as well as the other 3 routes, are family through and through. Even though you may not know anyone at first, our folks are friendly, will reach out and assist you in any way that you need, provide advice, and make sure that your adventure will be cherished for years to come.

There are many ways of support for your first ride; RFTW Website, RFTW Forum, social media (FaceBook, Instagram), RFTW Podcast, Local Meetups, and so many more ways to reach out to FOGs (Fun Old Guys/Gals).

Please understand, each run requires planning on an enormous scale to guide hundreds of riders across the nation, BUT planning on your part can be just as daunting and a major undertaking. Take advantage of registering early, ask the folks that have experience in these runs, and help make this the best and most memorable adventure that you can by being prepared. 

Yeah the appearance of some of our FOGs can be intimidating, but leather, wind, and miles of open road can do that to a person. Honestly, everyone here are teddy bears underneath those tough shells and will do just about anything for our family members.   

-Machine & Riding Tips

As we move into the winter months, regardless of if you have winterized your machine or not, we want to stress the importance of checking your ride before your next ride. Cooler temps will bring down your tire pressures. Long storage will drop your battery charge as well as your gas composition. A common term to remember from my old Rider Coach and instruction days: T-CLOCS T-tires and wheels, C-controls and cables, L-lights and electrics, O-oil and other fluids, C-chassis, S-Stands. At a minimum, check these before a ride in cooler weather and/or before winterizing for the season.

Another area that is easily forgotten and rarely spoken about: Riding Gear. Take the time and inspect your helmet; tear down the inner linings, wash it, inspect for damage both inside and out, replace your visor if necessary, and look at the build date. Although your helmet is designed to protect your head, it does wear out. The foam inside wears down and degrades over normal use. A rule of thumb, 3-5 years normal use, sooner if dropped or involved in a crash.

Protective pads/plates – inspect your gear for any signs of wear or damage. Wash your gear to keep in an optimal state of usability and cleanliness. If your pads or shells are showing signs of wear, replace. Now’s the time.

– leathers are no different than protective pads or outerwear, however they can be more durable, and more expensive to replace. As with any leather products, regular cleaning is always essential to keep leather in great shape that will last a very long time. Just remember to follow your garment’s instructions. As for my chaps, vest and gloves, saddle soap with a good rinse, let dry naturally out of direct sunlight, and always rub down with mineral oil or neatsfoot oil and they are ready for another season. Well taken care of leathers will last a long time, keep you warm in cooler weather, cool in the warmer ones, and protect your hide from road debris kicked up as well as road rash from sliding down low.

-Midway Leadership Messages

“All Hands Effort” We are asking for everyone’s help in an effort to raise funds for the Midway Route this year. Our mission across this great nation is not only to make a visual statement or ride from coast to coast, but to help support the communities that strive so hard to support us. We visit schools in low income communities where the kids eat their only healthy meals at school, provide students with the basic learning materials needed everyday like pencils, paper, glue, books, and the list goes on. We visit veteran homes that have taken financial support cuts but still carry on their duties to our Heroes to ensure they have everything that they need from transportation to healthcare, a decent shelter over their heads, support and interaction they so desperately long for. And every community that we roll into for fuel, lunch, visits, and even diner; all of these communities plan and save for months to support us and our missions every single mile we ride. Every group that we encounter and that support us, we in turn support them by donating funds to help and assist their cause and mission. 

These monies are raised from supporting businesses and contributors that you have helped secure while spreading our message and the reason why we ride, riding for those who cannot.

We are asking that all Midway Riders and supporters come together and help raise funds necessary to help our community families across the route. If you would like a Midway 501c3 letter to reach out to your donors, you can request one at ed.brundage@rftw.us and he will get one for you. With this you can reach out to a business and other donors where they can make all donations tax deductible.

Let’s make this year unforgettable in monies raised for Midway!

Positions Needed & Contacts:

‘Service Before Self’ We are still looking for volunteers to step up and into leadership positions.  Volunteering will make the mission, ride, and overall participation so much more memorable.

Risk Management Officer – Are you one that helps an organization in incident reports, safety management, and/or quality reviews and reports? – Contact Randy ‘Stinger’ Sheets randy.sheets@rftw.us 

Honor Guard Coordinator – Do you have a deep sense of patriotism, honor, and feel of pride for all services, veterans, and this great nation? – Contact Randy ‘Stinger’ Sheets randy.sheets@rftw.us 

Registration Lead – If you are great with meeting folks and getting them registered for an experience of a lifetime? – Contact Randy ‘Stinger’ Sheets randy.sheets@rftw.us 

Platoon Leaders – Are you a leader that loves making a difference while guiding and mentoring a platoon safety across the nation? – Contact Joe ‘JavaJoe’ Bookataub bookataub.joe@gmail.com 

Assistant Platoon Leaders – Are you ready to assist in leadership, mentoring, and riding safety? – Contact Joe ‘JavaJoe’ Bookataub bookataub.joe@gmail.com 

Platoon Tail-gunners – If you are one that never leaves a person behind, mentors riders to help them become better, and help in the leadership of a platoon? – Contact Joe ‘JavaJoe’ Bookataub bookataub.joe@gmail.com 

Leadership Team Member Assistant – Are you good with numbers, detail oriented, looking to learn and become part of the leadership team? – Contact Holly ‘Shooter’ Thomas hothomas1@yahoo.com

-Registration & KSU (Kickstands Up)

Registration is open! Register as soon as you can to help leadership plan better. Remember, they need to let volunteers across each state know how many riders to expect so they can plan to assist us with our journey and mission. Fuel, food, lodging, escorts; all require a head count so their organizations can plan on how to assist us in getting everyone across this great nation safely. 

3 Routes: Central, Midway, & Southern

May 13 – 23, 2026

Sandbox Route

May 24 – 26, 2026

Early Bird Registration Sep 11 – Jan 31

Coast to Coast: $100/person

Sandbox : $40/person

Registration AFTER January 31, 2025

Coast to Coast: $120/ person

Sandbox: $60

Until next time, Thank You my fellow Brother and Sister Veterans and Wish everyone a Wonderful and Safe Thanksgiving!

Ride Smart

Ride Safe

Keep the rubber side down & the shiny side up!

~Is it May yet? Then again, everyday is May if you let it. 

 

Ben ‘Stitch’ Noyce

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Run For The Wall® Podcast Season 2 Episode 7 – Clutch Chronicles w/ Leo Rachmel

Run For The Wall Podcast

Run For The Wall® Podcast Season 2 Episode 7 – Clutch Chronicles w/ Leo Rachmel.

The rider formerly known as Leo joins us on the podcast for a again, this time as Sandbox Route Coordinator. What’s changed?

Whether you ride, serve, or simply remember, press play and let’s go ALL THE WAY!

Looking for the Run For The Wall Song? CLICK HERE!

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU!

Your stories keep RFTW alive. Whether you have ridden with us, supported us, or simply want to ask Boots and Hitch a question, we would love to hear your voice.

Share your experiences, memories and questions by writing to us at pod@rftw.us. Together we can continue to Ride For Those Who Can’t.

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November 2025 Sandbox Route Coordinator Newsletter

Dear Sandbox Riders, Families, and Friends,

As we start November, I hope everyone had a great October and a fun Halloween.  The holidays are just around the corner, and then it’s 2026 and almost May!  Planning continues to go smoothly for Sandbox.  All of our supporters are anticipating our return next year, and we’re looking forward to visiting those places that make our mission what it is.

I had the opportunity to speak with your leaders at the end of October.  Almost all of them are returning to the same positions they held last year, and I can assure you that Polar Bear and I have the utmost confidence in their ability to accomplish the mission professionally and efficiently.  They will take care of you, regardless of where you’re riding, and make sure any problems are quickly resolved at the lowest level.

Registration

As we progress through the year, our numbers continue to grow.  I’d like to ask that you register as early as possible so we can track the number of riders we’re asking our supporters to accommodate.  Additionally, the earlier you register, the sooner we can assign you to a team or platoon leader who can begin discussing individual preparation and what you need to be successful.  If you have a friend or two that you’d like to ride with, once assigned to a platoon, you can ask to be in the same platoon.  Early registration helps coordinate this.

Although our numbers are slightly down from previous years, we’re picking up lots of riders who are new to Sandbox.  Some of these are new to RFTW, while some are experienced riders from the Coast-to-Coast Routes who want to experience Sandbox for themselves.  We welcome all riders and supporters to our family and look forward to making this year’s Run a memorable and enjoyable experience for everybody.

A Run From The Run

One of the things we talk about on RFTW is “Runs To The Run” and “Runs From The Run.”  Although these events are not sanctioned by RFTW, they are comprised of like-minded individuals who want to travel together en route either to or from the Run.

To facilitate your planning, I’d like to talk about one of these Runs From The Run, which will happen directly after Sandbox is Mission Complete at the Wall in Marseilles.  On Wednesday, May 27, 2026, our Outreach Coordinator, Taz, will lead a group from the Host Hotel in Ottawa, IL, about 300 miles south to Perryville, MO where they will visit the Missouri National Veterans Memorial (MNVM), spend the night, and then riders are welcome to continue on in smaller groups, whichever direction you’re heading.  For more information, look for Taz’s post in the Sandbox Discussion of the RFTW Forum and the MNVM’s website at https://mnvmfund.org/.

The RFTW Forum is also an excellent source of information for any questions relating to the Run.  There are a variety of helpful topics and an opportunity to ask questions and interact with other riders throughout the year.  The Forum can be found under the “Connect” tab on the RFTW website.

Email Spoofing

Please be aware that some bad actors have begun spoofing RFTW Leadership emails to some participants.  These emails generally ask the recipient to click on an executable file or request payment, promising reimbursement.  The best way to identify these fake emails is to look at the sender’s email address.  If it didn’t come from an @rftw.us address, don’t reply, and for Gmail, click on the option to “Report Spam.”  Our Secretary of the Board will receive the report and take necessary actions.  If you’re not using Gmail or are unsure, just forward the email to secretary@rftw.us, and he will take care of it.

Fundraising

We’re still looking for collectible, unique items that we can use to help us raise funds to support our mission.  If you know of anybody who might be able to donate such items, please let them know it would be very much appreciated and help us make donations of our own to our supporters and other worthwhile charitable organizations we encounter along the way.  Once we get items together, we’ll decide how they can best support us and figure out a way to offer them to our riders through auctions and drawings.  All of this fundraising allows us to operate Sandbox Route and keep costs down.

Let’s continue to work on our personal preparations to get ready to complete the Run in May.  This includes (among many other things) motorcycle maintenance, mental and physical conditioning, and having a system for packing and unpacking your motorcycle repeatedly, day after day.  The more you practice, the easier it will become, which can reduce or eliminate any stress you may feel in anticipation of this amazing and demanding experience.

Again, I look forward to meeting you all next year and working with you to make the 5th running of Sandbox Route a resounding success!

Leo “Clutch” Rachmel
Run For The Wall XXXVI
Sandbox Route Coordinator