Posted on by

Run For The Wall® Podcast Season 3 Episode 2 – Chilling Out With Polar Bear (Sandbox RC)

Run For The Wall Podcast

S3 E2 Chilling Out With Polar Bear (Sandbox RC)

Introducing your 2027 Sandbox Route Coordinator, Sam Warner.

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

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.

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

Posted on by

Sandbox Route Coordinator Newsletter – August 2026

Hello from Maryland. This time of year is hot and muggy; these last 2 weeks have been raining almost every day.

Just got back from the annual Face to Face meeting with the Board of Directors and the other 3 Route Coordinators and Assistant Route Coordinators. We had a great session and got a lot of good information. If you didn’t know, there were a couple of director positions that are going to change. The President of the Board, John “Turkey” Staub, will be leaving the board as his term has ended, and Billie “Bugs” Dunlap will become the New President.  Corey “Sunbear” Lederer has been selected as the Vice President. Please congratulate them when you see them!

There are 2 events that are happening soon: Angel Fire and the All Riders Reunion in Kerrville, Texas.

The Angel Fire Reunion in Angel Fire, NM will be held Sept 3-6. Registration is $45 per person until Aug 18, then it’s $55 per person till registration closes on Aug 21.  Please see the Central Route Chronicles: August edition for more information

The Texas Riders Reunion in Kerrville, TX. Sept 25-27 at the YO Resort.  Registration is $40 per person until Sept 15, then it’s $50 per person. Please see the Southern Route Coordinator August Newsletter for more information.

NOTE: Neither of these events are official Run for the Wall events.

We have started building the leadership positions for this year’s Run. We are looking for volunteers to step up into leadership roles in all positions. If you have any interest in volunteering for any position or job, even if you have been in leadership before, you need to fill out a form.  You can fill out form at: RFTW.us >Sandbox Route >Volunteer Sign-up (https://rftw.us/volunteer-sign-up/). Some leadership positions require GMRS radios for communications. We cannot do it alone we need a great team to make it all happen. Keep in mind that FNG’s are not permitted to volunteer for these positions, as we want them to fully experience the Run. Positions we are looking for ; Risk Management Officer, Road Guards, Medical Team Members, Staging Team, Fuel Team, Platoon Leaders, Asst Platoon Leaders, Tail Gunners, and a Social Media Coordinator.

It is not too late to fill out After Action Report for the 2026 Run. Bravo 6 and I have read all the current After Action Reports (AAR) that we have received so far, thank you for filling them out and letting us know what areas we need to work on for a better experience for this coming May.

Let’s work together to make the Sandbox Route great! We will Continue the Mission safely and successfully! Remember, “Nothing Great is ever accomplished alone!”

Posted on by

Central Route Chronicles: August 2026 Edition

Horton and Boots Angel Fire

While traveling to Dallas for our annual Face to Face meeting with the Board of Directors and other Route Coordinators, a myriad of thoughts rolled through my head as it pertains to our mission.  We as a group spend countless hours planning and executing what is the largest organized cross-country ride to honor our veterans.  So I ask you… What is your why?  Why do YOU ride?  I am often asked this question when doing interviews with local media.  Do we focus on the mission year-round or do we just go through the motions for 10 days?  I challenge every rider to ask yourself this question.  It takes everyone moving in the same direction to make it work.

August is a special time of year for vacations and spending time with our families, but our State Coordinators are already contacting our hosts and raising funds. During the Run, you will notice that for 10 days, we are fed breakfast, lunch, and dinner. And how much do you pay for it? Nothing. This is due to our State Coordinators. Without them, the Run would not happen. If you see a brown hat walking around at any of our stops, thank them for their efforts. I want to personally thank every one of them for their hard work and dedication.

As we are in the initial stages of building our leadership team, I want to encourage you to fill out the volunteer application form. It can be found HERE. When your application is received, we will forward it to the appropriate team lead. On the Central Route Hub Contact list found HERE, you will notice that it is pretty bare. I encourage you to look through the list and see if there is any position that you may be interested. Keep in mind that FNG’s are not permitted to volunteer for these positions, as we want them to experience the Run without the obligation to a team.

ANGEL FIRE REUNION

Angel Fire

Registration for the Angel Fire Reunion is currently open!  REGISTER HERE. If you would like to attend this amazing service project, I encourage you to register.  Registration will be closing August 21st.  You will not be disappointed!  Keep in mind that this is not an official Run for the Wall event, and it is not just for the Central Route.  Many riders from all Routes have attended.

Horton - RFTW Central Route Coordinator

Todd “Horton” Taylor
Central Route Coordinator

Posted on by

Southern Route August 2026 Newsletter

2027 Southern Route Coordinator August Newsletter and All Riders Reunion – Kerrville, TX

IS IT MAY Yet????

No, but we are rapidly approaching the ALL RFTW Riders Reunion in KERRVILLE, TX! And yes, it is very HOT in Texas!

Greetings Y’all!!!!

The Texas Riders Reunion in Kerrville, TX. Sept  25-27 at the YO Resort.  Registration is $40 per person until  Sept 15, then it’s $50 per person.

Your registration fee covers the use of the YO’s facilities and the Banquet dinner on Saturday night.

There is an early bird dinner on Thursday the 24th at a local Mexican food restaurant that is optional, along with a Friday night dinner at the VFW that is also optional.  Rooms at the YO are $109 a Night plus tax.  There is camping available in the area and other hotels if you choose to go that route

There will be raffles and a silent auction that will run the weekend, with winners announced after the banquet Saturday Night.  There will also be live auction items as well.   All proceeds go back to the Southern Route (not all TX fuel stops) and educational grants for the schools along the route.

The riding in the Texas Hill Country is some of the best in the US, with plenty of self-guided trips, food, pie, food, great views, pie shopping, sightseeing, food, and did I mention pie?  You can ride, or just visit and catch up with friends and family or make new ones ( friends that is).

This is open to ALL RFTW. You don’t have to live in TX or ride SR to attend.  It’s a laid-back, relaxing weekend to reconnect and decompress.

The registration form is attached in PDF form along with the number for the YO.  When you call them, mention you’re attending the Tx Riders reunion.

Look forward to seeing y’all there. I’ll be the guy wearing the Large Panama Palm hat

YO Resort:  830-257-4440
2026 Riders Reunion Registration
25 – 27 Sept 2026
Kerrville, Tx

Name(s): __________________________________________

Road Name(s):_____________________________________

Reunion FNG: (Yes or No)________________

Address: __________________________________________

___________________________________________

Phone: _____________________________________________

Email: ______________________________________________

Early Bird Dinner on Thursday 24 Sept 🙁 No or Yes and number in
party)

___________________

Friday Evening Dinner at the VFW: ( No or Yes and number in party)

_______________________

(Download, fill out, and email back to texasriderreunion@gmail.com)

Payments and Info

$40 per person until Sept 14  $50 per person after Sept 14.
Payments can be made by Cash App, Zelle, Venmo, PayPal cash, or
check.

Checks will be accepted until Sept 9.
For those who don’t do email or have issues with the form OR are
paying with checks, mail to the following

Philip Tutton
1880 FM 2254
Pittsburg, Tx  75686.

Please put Riders Reunion in the memo section of your check.

PayPal: Philip Tutton (icon is the Gonzales flag “come and take it”)

Use the Friends and family option

Cash App: $PhilipTutton
Venmo : Philip Tutton @ Philip-Tutton
Zelle:  903-556-1717

 

 

Run For The Wall XXXVII – Southern Route 2027 Update

The planning for Run For The Wall XXXVII – 2027 is officially underway, and our leadership team is excited to begin preparing for another incredible year of honoring our veterans, supporting our riders, and strengthening the bonds of our RFTW family.

Our primary focus this year is Safety First while providing an exceptional experience for our First-Time Riders (FNGs). We are committed to ensuring every rider feels welcomed, supported, and prepared for the journey from Ontario, California, to Washington, D.C.

Leadership Team meeting invitations have begun going out, and we appreciate everyone who has already stepped forward to volunteer. Your dedication and willingness to serve make Run For The Wall possible.

Returning Volunteers – Please Read

If you are returning as a volunteer for 2027, we have one important request:

Please bring your 2026 volunteer hat.

In previous years, this has been encouraged, but for 2027 it will be a requirement. Reusing your volunteer hats helps reduce unnecessary expenses, allowing more of our resources to be directed back into the communities that so generously support Run For The Wall along our route.

Every dollar we save helps us continue our mission of giving back while honoring those who have sacrificed so much for our nation.

Thank you for your continued commitment, leadership, and servant’s heart. Together, we will make Run For The Wall 2027 our safest, strongest, and most memorable ride yet. Platoon sizes and configuration based on rider registration. We will be looking at all of our stops to maximize our time at the station and the safety of the riders.

We will begin meeting with State Coordinators in the coming weeks and discussing each state from border to border and identifying areas of concern for 2026 and areas to improve in 2027. If you have not submitted an After Action Report (AAR) for the 2026 run, please do so by clicking https://rftw.us/submit-an-after-action-report/. RFTW leadership reads every AAR in an effort to make the Run the best it can possibly be!

As we work on getting “Back to the Basics” in 2027, I will be encouraging all riders to get to know each other better, not just in our Assigned platoons. Get to know your Stagers, Fuel Team, Road Guards, Ambassadors etc. There will be changes made to allow riders to get to know people in these leadership positions so take advantage of the opportunities.

🌟 Leadership Spotlight – Dave “Double D” Davies 🌟

One of the exciting additions to our 2027 newsletters will be our Leadership Spotlight, where we’ll introduce the incredible people who make Run For The Wall possible. Our goal is to give everyone an opportunity to get to know the dedicated volunteers who serve this mission—not just by the positions they hold, but by the people they are.

We’re kicking things off with none other than Dave “Double D” Davies!

You may know him as Double D, or perhaps you’ve heard someone simply refer to him as “That Guy.” If you haven’t yet heard the story behind that nickname, be sure to ask him… just make sure you’ve set aside a little extra time! Like many conversations with Dave, what starts as a simple answer often turns into an unforgettable journey through decades of experience, countless stories, plenty of laughter, and a passion for helping others.

Dave’s dedication to Run For The Wall and the veterans we ride to honor is second to none. His leadership, willingness to mentor, and commitment to serving others have made a lasting impact on countless riders over the years. Whether he’s sharing his knowledge, lending a helping hand, or simply taking the time to encourage a fellow rider, Dave embodies the servant leadership that defines our mission.

So, when you see Double D, introduce yourself, ask him about “That Guy,” and enjoy the conversation. You’ll walk away with a smile, a story to tell, and a greater appreciation for one of the amazing people who make Run For The Wall the family it is.

Thank you, Dave, for your unwavering commitment, your leadership, and your heart for our mission. We are honored to have you as part of the 2027 Southern Route leadership team!

Dave “Double D” Davies

My father served in the United States Air Force from 1951-1955. I learned of the military exploits of Aunts and Uncles throughout WWII from my father and his mother, who collected newspaper articles of all their promotions and exploits. I grew up watching the Vietnam War on television, but it was never discussed at home. Cousin Michael Field who graduated from West Point in 1960 was killed during his second tour 17Oct1967.

During my first trip to Sturgis in 2001 I crossed paths with Kevin Nave and his wife Carrie. We spent 3 inseparable days experiencing Sturgis and I watched Kevin break away occasionally to have a quick word with fellow Marines to “check in on them”. Kevin was a Marine Corps Major. Two years later we got the call from Carrie that Kevin had lost his life in Iraq as XO of 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines.

I ride every day to honor Kevin and Michael. My professional career as a Golf Course Superintendent afforded me the opportunity to coordinate an annual Tournament to raise money for a variety of military support foundations for 13 years begining in 2006. That event connected me with many “like-minded individuals” and that desire to serve and support was born. My “one time only” participation in RFTW began in 2016. I was touched everyday by the people and ultimately the Mission. For 10 years now I have looked for positions to help support the Mission and the people that are part of it.

The people are what is most important for me. The participants, the behind the scenes work that must happen to make The Run a success and every person we see on an overpass or on the side of the road. I’ve been told there is “no crying on “The Run” but every day throughout the year I’m reminded of the sacrifice men and women have made on our behalf and it’s those tears that remind me of the sacrifice of a friend and a family member.

Dave “Double D” Davies
2027 RFTW SR
Assistant Route Coordinator

Road Guard Captain “Unplugged”

Greetings to all RFTW riders!  This is Chris “Unplugged” Johnson, your Southern Route Road Guard Captain for 2027.  As it is unfortunately not May yet, we should all be reminded of the things which would make your next RFTW experience easier.  One aspect would be training.  Continuing your motorcycle training is essential for maintaining a sharp and effective riding skill set.

Regular practice and advanced training reinforce fundamental techniques, improve hazard recognition, and help riders adapt to changing road conditions and evolving riding environments.  Ongoing education also builds confidence, strengthens decision-making under pressure, and reduces complacency, which can develop with experience alone.  By committing to continuous training, motorcyclists enhance their safety, improve their overall riding performance, and remain prepared to respond effectively to unexpected situations on the road.

Take care and ride safe!

Chris “Unplugged” Johnson
2027 Road Guard Captain
RFTW Southern Route
626-347-1605

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

We are still in need of Volunteers (non-FNG’s) for a few positions. We are currently looking Platoon Leadership positions Please remember, the Platoon Leadership positions require GMRS- communications. If you are interested in any of these positions, please fill out a Volunteer form. Even if you have previously served on any given team, if you plan to do so again, please complete the volunteer form.

Leave no one behind does not end on the battlefield!

If you or someone you know find themselves struggling with their mental health, please know you can contact the VA Veteran’s Crisis Line by dialing 988 then press 1 or text 838255 and speak or chat with a qualified responder.

Say Their Names, Tell Their Stories, Never forget! Live a Life worthy of their Sacrifice!

RFTW Southern Route Coordinator 2027
Kevin “Short” Short

Posted on by

Midway Route Coordinator Newsletter – August 2026

We Ride For Those Who Can't

293 Days to KSU!

Hello Midway Family!!!  Now that we’re into August and the dog days of summer, I hope you have had, or are having a very enjoyable time with friends and family.  Soon school will start up again, Fall will hit first then Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years, Valentines Day, Easter and before you know it RFTW ’27 will be upon us!!  It goes by fast and we are already very busy planning for next May.

The Board of Directors have approved my recommendations for your Assistant Route Coordinator (ARC) and Road Guard Captain (RGC) for 2026. They are Mark Brundage, “OX”  as ARC and Ryan Long, road name “Pipes” as RGC. Congratulations to both and I look forward to working with this leadership team in developing and providing you with the best Midway route experience in 2027.

 

NEW NEWS

After our face to face Board of Directors meeting in Dallas here are a few tidbits from that meeting.  There are a few Directors who are term limited and will be dropping off the board in a few weeks.  John “Turkey” Staub will be leaving the board as President and Billie “Bugs” Dunlap will become President.  Corey “Sunbear” Lederer will move from Secretary to Vice President.

There have been a few changes to the SOP mostly driven by the increased requirements and cost of the RFTW Insurance policy company. They can be very restrictive and intrusive. Insurance costs have increased by over 50% in the last two years and have required the Board of Directors to develop additional safety protocols and internal procedures before they approve liability Insurance for the RFTW. For all you business owners, you are probably dealing with more restrictive insurance requirements also, so you know. There is really nothing you can do when the law says you are required to have insurance, right!

With this increased insurance cost in mind, a registration fee increase was voted last year on and approved by ALL members, me included, to cover some of the lost revenue due to the additional insurance cost.  That cost has been maintained for our ’27 Run

2027 all routes registration costs will be:

  • $100.00 early bird, Sept 11, 2026 – Jan 31,2027 (Please register early)
  • $120.00 starting Feb 1,2027
  • $100.00 Day riders for up to three days

Last year we left Ontario on Wednesday with the other routes and combined days 10 & 11 into day 10.  For ’27 we’ll be looking to adjust a few times on site and locations to benefit our riders as well as our hosts.

Your state coordinators are beginning the process of contacting all daily stops within their respective states to ensure a seamless experience for you in 2027. The State Coordinators are some of the unsung heroes who quietly provide a lot of time towards developing new experiences including parades, museums, veteran homes, great lunches and dinners, etc. for you that support the mission of RFTW. They receive limited recognition for these efforts and carry out this crucial work to ensure the success of the Midway route. Their pay is a “Thank You”, so please give them that when you meet one.

All other Leadership leads are also starting the process of developing their teams and starting their training for a successful 2027.

Speaking of Leadership, I have some key positions that are open and need dedicated professional individuals who are willing to provide some of their time in the development of a team that supports the mission and the Midway family.

They are currently:

Promotions Team Leader, Registration team members, Chaplains, Medics, Chase vehicle drivers (requires a pickup with a trailer for hauling motorcycles), Platoon Leaders, Assistant

Platoon Leaders and Platoon Tail Gunners. Of course, we can always use more fuel, staging and road guard team personnel.

If you are interested in any of these positions or any position in leadership, please submit a volunteer form and we will contact you > https://rftw.us/volunteer-sign-up/.

It is not too late for returning riders from last year to submit an after action report (AAR) discussing their thoughts on the 2026 Midway route. All comments are welcome and can only help me to provide a better experience for the 2027 Midway route. So please take advantage of this opportunity. After Action Report – RFTW

If you haven’t seen our Podcast, you should check it out at  RFTW Podcast – RFTW   Here you will get a lot of information regarding the Run and hear from various guests as they talk about their experiences and duties they perform to assist Midway’s mission.

Any ideas any of you may have to improve Midways social media footprint please feel free to contact me at randy.sheets@rftw.us with your ideas and I will discuss it with our social media team.  All ideas are welcome!!!!

Riding a motorcycle is fun, it’s enjoyable being out in the open and getting a good dose of “wind therapy.”  What a lot of rides overlook is that riding a bike is a lot of work and you need to be in some sort of shape to do it safely.  Our cross-country ride is very physically demanding on the body with early mornings and long days on the bike.  So please keep walking, running, swimming, hiking, going to the gym or maybe playing a lot of golf (No cart). Just keep moving. The bulk of our riders are 60 plus and closing in on retirement or are already there.  I know firsthand why being in “motorcycle riding shape” is so important.  I was not in rider shape this past May and I dropped my bike, knocked myself out, bruised my ego at our Halifax, NC fuel stop.  Thankfully, Bling Bling only had some bumps and bruises, but we both ended up with an ambulance ride to the hospital where I was treated for a mild concussion.  So, my advice to you and my plan between now and KSU in addition to hydrate, hydrate, hydrate is to practice, practice, practice!!!

Be sure to check in regularly as I’ll be posting a newsletter every month with interesting tidbits and news regarding our ’27 RFTW mission.

Much more to follow !!!!!!!

Enjoy your Summer!

“Tell their Stories”  “Say their Names”  “Never Forget”

“We ride for those who can’t”

“IS IT MAY YET!

Stinger

Randy “Stinger” Sheets
Midway Route Coordinator 2027

Posted on by

President’s Message – July 2026

RFTW BoD President John "Turkey" Staub

This year, July has a slightly different flavor than usual.  We celebrate our nation’s birthday every July, but this year marks the 250th anniversary of what was dubbed our “experiment in freedom.” I encourage you to take time to read the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and other relevant documents that outline the foundation of our democratic republic. I often hear people say that civics is a class that is missing from many of our school curricula; let’s take a moment to read these foundational documents so we have a better understanding of our Founding Fathers’ intentions.

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.

The July Face-to-Face meetings in Dallas provided the Board, including the new RCs and ARCs, with an opportunity to meet and discuss the AARs and the processes and procedures that govern our Mission. As is the case this time of year, some of the directors’ terms were due to expire, mine included. The bylaws require that certain corporate officers be drawn from the existing Board of Directors. Accordingly, I am pleased to announce that Billie “Bugs” Dunlap will become the new President of the Board, and Corey “Sunbear” Lederer will become the new Vice-President. With these two appointments, we began the search for a new Secretary. The announcement has a very short deadline, so if you are interested, please refer to it for the particulars on submitting your application. Further information on some of the other discussions will follow, so please stay tuned.

We often hear from folks about how our Mission has evolved over the last 36 years.  There is truth in those discussions.  We should remember that when RFTW was formed, it was a way to bring a group of veterans across the country, picking up some along the way, to protest the government’s methods of dealing with veteran issues.  As RFTW evolved and became a 501(c)(3), the veterans participating in the Run were the focus of the charity.  Arranging safe travel, meals, and a place of comfort, compassion, and understanding for those veterans, while carrying the message about the needs of our veterans, was the purpose of the organization.  Showing strength in numbers with like-minded individuals was necessary.  While the National League of Families of American Prisoners & Missing in Southeast Asia was formed in 1970, responses from various government representatives were lukewarm at best.  The history of our government’s work on the POW/MIA issue dates back to 1933.  In 1988, RFTW was a call to action by concerned veterans to raise the voices of our nation, our veterans, their friends and families, to force our government to face this most difficult issue. Thirty-Six years later, we still need to call for an accounting of our POWs and MIAs; there are some 81,000 remaining from our collective engagements with the enemy.  But we’ve also shifted our focus.  Our focus on Gold Star families, the families of our POWs and MIAs, those families that live with loss each and every day, shows that our compassion and care extend beyond the call for accountability.  However, as our society shifts its attention and our POWs and MIAs are no longer at the forefront of our nation, we need to ensure that we don’t lose focus on honoring their memory and supporting their friends and families.  Let us not forget that we need to continue to provide and promote an atmosphere where all participants, regardless of their service status, can reflect and heal, whether on the journey to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, the Gulf War Memorial, the Middle East Conflict Memorial, visiting a VA Hospital or center, or any other memorial or cemetery we visit.  As the needs of our most recent veterans shift, we need to be sufficiently expansive and flexible to ensure we meet their needs with the same desire and dedication as we have for the last 36 years.  All of our veterans, friends, and families are important; all count.  Let’s keep that focus.

Recently, Palm Springs Harley-Davidson approached us with a great idea. They wanted to find a way to support our Benevolence Program through multiple fundraising events. While they could always ask potential donors to write a check, we met and put our heads together, and Boots and Captain America set up a process so electronic donations go directly to RFTW, targeted to support the Benevolence Program. This initiative came about through a suggestion from one of our riders. The rider took the idea to his RC, who brought it to the BoD. We appreciate our riders’ efforts to support our program and ask that you bring these ideas and suggestions to your RC, who, in turn, will bring them to the BoD. While this may seem a bit arduous, it is necessary to ensure we don’t get our wires crossed. By approaching these opportunities through the appropriate process, the BoD can protect the people and businesses involved and provide maximum support to our riders.

Speaking of the Benevolence Program, we would like to highlight this support mechanism. In 2008, RFTW launched a program to direct donations to charities whose missions and values align with our own. RFTW’s traditions and heritage emphasize service to our participants and fidelity to our Mission. As the program grew, we added support for our veterans, families, and riders. Oddly enough, we haven’t received a rider support application in over two years. Rider support applications are processed by the RC and submitted to the BoD in time for the February Face-to-Face meeting. Riders are eligible for support to help offset the cost of participating in the annual Mission. Priority is given to FNGs and current or recently separated service members. Award monies MUST be used to offset the cost of Mission participation. The amount awarded is prorated to a daily rate, based on the number of days the rider spends on the Mission. These daily amounts are determined by the Board during the February meeting. Let’s work together and take advantage of this opportunity.

As we plan for RFTW 2027, your support for our veterans, their families, and friends should not wane as we wait for May.  If you haven’t yet read about the Red Star Foundation, please check out our partnership with the Red Star Foundation.  If you haven’t had time to research the Foundation or to get involved before the Run, this is a great opportunity to do so.  The Red Star Foundation is dedicated to honoring and supporting the families and loved ones of current military members, veterans, and first responders who have tragically lost a loved one to suicide. In addition to survivor support, the Foundation works to prevent suicide through education, advocacy, community outreach, and partnerships that promote mental health awareness, early intervention, and access to support resources within military, veteran, and first responder communities. They provide an avenue for you to contribute throughout the year.  Click here to learn more about the Red Star Foundation.  Click here to become an RFTW Red Star Rider.

RFTW Podcast

The RFTW Podcast with Boots and Hitch continues to highlight what makes RFTW unique. I encourage you to take a listen. Each episode explores a distinct aspect of RFTW, featuring interviews with individuals who have contributed to its development.  Check it out!!  Want to “meet” your RC? Check out the podcasts.  Want to learn the history of RFTW? Check out the podcasts.  What should an FNG expect?  Check out the podcasts.

POW/MIA Recovery Update (as of 25 July 2026)

The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) continues its dedicated efforts to recover and identify remains from all conflicts.  DPAA has successfully accounted for 1068 of our 2633 mission.  As of this update, there are still 1565 unaccounted for 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 service members 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!

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.

Say Their Names – Tell Their Stories – Never Forget.

Back to Basics. Back to the RFTW Mission.

Is it May yet?

See you in Ontario!!!!

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
2026 – CR Road Guard

Posted on by

Board Of Directors Vacancy Announcement

Become a Board Member!

The Board of Directors is looking to fill the position of Secretary.

The RFTW Secretary is a critical, sensitive position with a 3-year commitment that requires certain skills to maintain administrative tasks and documents and support the Mission of Run for the Wall. We live and work in a hugely electronic environment, so knowledge and familiarity with computers, file/folder structures, etc., is paramount.

The successful candidate will have a background in using Microsoft Office products, including Word and Excel, as well as similar tools like Zoom. Knowledge and experience in setting up and maintaining structured electronic records accounts are especially important. The ability to work in an online, collaborative environment is essential, as is access to reliable internet services.

The bylaws describe the duties of the Secretary as follows: The Secretary shall: (a) record the minutes of the meetings of the members and of the BoD in one (1) or more methods provided for that purpose including electronic media; (b) ensure that all notices are duly given in accordance with the provisions of these By-Laws or as required by law; (c) serve as custodian of the corporate records and the seal of the corporation; (d) keep a register of the post office address of each member, which shall be furnished to the Secretary by such member; and (e) perform all duties incident to the office of Secretary and such other duties as from time to time may be designated to the Secretary by the President or the BoD.

Appointment to the BoD places demands on your free time. We meet at least once a month, often twice. There are occasional emergency online meetings with as little as 5 days’ notice. Occasional travel is required, and certain travel expenses are reimbursed. In July each year, the BoD convenes Face to Face meetings, where attendance is paramount. We also meet Face to Face each year in Ontario prior to the Run. You will be required to take and produce detailed minutes of each meeting, publishing them for review very soon after the meeting. There are online documents, such as a roster of motions by month and topic, that must be maintained. Additionally, the person filling this position is not only a Director but also a corporate officer with certain duties and obligations specific to the corporation.

The successful candidate will submit a resume outlining their skills relevant to those listed here, a brief description of their Run experience, and the names of three references we may contact. Veterans are also required to submit an SSAN-redacted copy of their DD-214 showing Character of Service (type of discharge). Once selected, the successful candidate will also be required to undergo a Character & Fitness Examination (CFE), essentially a background check at the Board’s expense.

Those wishing to apply should submit their package to Secretary@rftw.us no later than 5 August 2026. Questions can be directed to President@rftw.us.

If you want to serve Run for the Wall, this is an excellent opportunity to impact the future of our organization. We look forward to hearing from you!

Posted on by

Angel Fire Reunion 2026

Angel Fire

Greetings, fellow Run For The Wall riders!

As I write this, the weather here in West Virginia has been unseasonably hot and humid. I hope that wherever you are in this great country, you are enjoying pleasant weather during the vacation season.

I wanted to share an update about our Annual Angel Fire Reunion, which takes place over Labor Day weekend. First, I want to emphasize that this is not an official Run For The Wall-sanctioned event. We will be gathering as like-minded individuals to complete our annual workday, volunteering our time to lay bricks at the Angel Fire Memorial, and to reunite with our brothers and sisters from all routes.

With that being said, I am happy to announce that registration is now OPEN!

Patti “Yogi” Finley has been coordinating our dinners for Friday and Saturday evenings. As we did last year, we will have dinner Friday evening at the Laguna Vista Saloon and Saturday evening at the Senior Center. The total cost for both dinners is $45. Kathryn “Dark Cloud” Ewing has graciously volunteered to collect the payments.

I hope everyone has a safe and enjoyable summer!

Horton

Todd “Horton” Taylor
RFTW 2027 Central Route Coordinator
West Virginia State Coordinator

Posted on by

Run For The Wall® Podcast Season 3 Episode 1 – Buzzing Around w/ Stinger (Midway RC 2027)

Run For The Wall Podcast

S3 E1 Buzzing Around w/ Stinger (Midway RC 2027)

Randy “Stinger” Sheets joins us as the 2027 Midway Route Coordinator.

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

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.

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

Posted on by

SandBox Route Intro’s & Info

ALL GAVE SOME - SOME GAVE ALL!

WELCOME to the SandBox Route and Run for the Wall XXXVII!  2027 will be the 6th year of the SandBox Route.

2027 SandBox Route Coordinator, Sam "Polar Bear" WarnerHello my name is Sam “Polar Bear” Warner. I am honored to have been selected by Leo “Clutch”  Rachmel and confirmed by the Board of Directors (BOD) as your 2027 SandBox Route Coordinator (RC). What a privilege it is! I would like to thank Clutch for what he has done for the SandBox route and for helping me prepare for being your next RC. All the hours on the phone and all my questions you answered over the last 12 months has put me in a great position to lead this group of true American Veterans & Patriots from Wall to Wall.

2027 SandBox Route ARC, Johnnie "Bravo 6" HuddlestonI would also like to thank the Board of Directors for approving Johnnie “Bravo 6” Huddleston as the Assistant Route Coordinator (ARC) for the 2027 SandBox Route. Bravo 6 retired from the Army after 36 years. He is a Volunteer Fire Fighter and member of the Patriot Guard Riders.

2027 SandBox Route RGC, Kris "Cyborg" BorgKris “Cyborg” Borg was approved by the Board of Directors as the 2027 SandBox Route Road Guard Captain (RGC). Cyborg retired from the Marines after serving 20 years. He is a member of Veteran Enforcers Motorcycle Association (VEMA) and runs a Nonprofit Organization.

Well, a little about me: I am a 26 year Air Force Veteran where I was a Tactical Aircraft Mechanic (Crew Chief). I have worked various aircraft, RF-4C, OV-10A, OA-10, F-15E, and F-16’s (Block 30s and 50s). I was stationed at nine different bases, Sumter SC, Shemya AK, Davis Monthan AZ, Goldsboro NC, Anchorage AK, Mountain Home ID, Kunsan Korea, Spangdalhem Germany, and ended my career in Las Vegas Nevada. I was also deployed to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Korea, Italy, Turkey, and Iraq. I Supported Operation Northern Watch, Operation Southern Watch, Bosnia/Herzegovina, and Iraqi Freedom. After I retired from the service I moved to Maryland to work with the F-35 Flight Test program at NAS Patuxent River.

How I got involved with Run for the Wall. In 2013-time frame when I got my Harley there were these 2 guys at work, you might know them Billie “Bugs” Dunlap and Matt “Jolly” Rodgers, that I would talk to before I bought my bike, and they were telling about this Run they do. I was always interested, that” Bugs” guy was pretty persuasive. So, in 2015 I decided to join. I joined The Run in Wytheville VA; met another Average size guy by the name Jim “Stoney” Stone – he was the RC for that year. My first Platoon leader was Robert “Old School” Reavis. I was hooked. In 2016 I went further out to meet the Pack in Meridian, Mississippi and started riding in every Outreach Mission I could go on.  Since then, I have been on every Southern Route Run since 2018 serving on the Outreach Team and as Tailgunner and on every SandBox Route Run since the Inaugural Run in 2019 serving  as Maryland State Coordinator, on the Outreach Team, as Tailgunner and as the 2026 Assistant Route Coordinator.

The 2027 SandBox Route dates are 30 May to 1 June 2027. We will leave from Springfield VA, KSU at 07:00. Registration will open on September 11, 2027, and the hotel list comes out in early January.  The SandBox Itinerary will be released in early ’27.  Updates to follow on these important dates.

Thank you for the After-Action Reports (AAR’s) we have already received. Bravo 6 and I have read all the ones to date; we value everyone’s comments! We need to hear The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly! This will only help us make changes where its needed to make a better experience for all. If we don’t know then we can’t fix it. Please go to https://rftw.us/after-action-report/ and let us know what we did Great and what we did could be better.

Of course we cannot do this alone, we need a great group of volunteers to help us lead the pack across 5 states to reach the Middle East Conflicts Wall Memorial in Marseilles, Illinois. If you would like to volunteer for a position, please fill out the Volunteer Application at rftw.us, Routes, SandBox Route, Volunteer Sign-Up, then fill out the Application (https://rftw.us/volunteer-sign-up/)

The Middle East Conflicts Wall in Marseilles, IL is dedicated to those who have lost their lives while fighting in wars and battles across the Middle East from 1979 – the present. As of 2014, there were approximately 6,900 names on the panels. Today, there are more than 8,000 names on those panels. This is why we ride!! Say Their Names, Tell Their Stories, Never forget! Live a Life worthy of their Sacrifice!

There are two RFTW related events coming up soon…   Registration is now open for the All Riders Reunion in Kerrville, Texas for September 25 – 27, 2026.  You can find more info on the Reunion FaceBook Page here or go directly to the Registration Form here.  The Angel Fire Reunion in New Mexico is right around the corner on Labor Day Weekend – more info to follow soon.

I will leave you with the 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.”

Sam "Polar Bear" Warner SandBox Route Coordinator