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Run For The Wall® Podcast Season 3 Episode 4 – Let’s Talk Gear with Psych-O

Run For The Wall Podcast

S3 E4 Let’s Talk Gear with Psych-O

Michelle “Psych-O” McDaniel joins the RTFW podcast to talk all things gear. She has already started to outline her thoughtfully curated packing list and we have the honor of having her share some of these helpful tips.

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!

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Southern Route Mid-Month Newsletter

Southern Route Spotlight

Allow me to introduce Dustin “Leatherneck” Taylor

Dustin is the Southern Route Lead Chaplain. Dustin’s responsibilities reach well beyond what one might think falls under the heading of Chaplain. The Chaplain Corps consists of about 30 individuals. They are there for the spiritual and emotional support of all our riders but also engage in a wide variety of responsibilities, ALL in support of our riders. Dustin maintains responsibility for each of the Chase Vehicles. The Chase Vehicles follow the pack and are there for any rider experiencing mechanical issues during the day.   Chaplains on motorcycles are alerted to riders on the shoulder of the road, and they assist the rider in loading their bike on the trailer. Transport is then provided to the next possible service location. If you’ve ever experienced a breakdown on the road, you understand why this is such an important service, provided through the support of Mission M25. His responsibilities don’t end there. Consider the Hydration Trailer providing drinks and snacks at each stop. The trailer is manned by members of his team and they work extremely hard to support our riders with all the donated supplies. Consider all the hard work our Chaplain Corps provides along the Run and give them a “Thank You” whenever you see them.

On a personal note, Dustin presents a large, perhaps even intimidating persona to those who have never met him. I can assure you his disarming smile and open heart make him the perfect person to lead this incredible group of Run For The Wall participant/supporters. Take a moment to say hello to Dustin, or any of his Chaplain Corps. They are always there for us.

Here are a few words from Dustin about Run For The Wall;

“My name is Dustin Taylor, road name “Leatherneck.” My FNG year was 2015. After a friend recommended it as a bucket-list item, I planned to do it just once, but after the first couple of days on the road, I was completely hooked. The following year, my faith led me to join Mission M25—a non-denominational Christian organization that has supported Run For The Wall for over 20 years—and serve with the Chaplain Corps. The mission and the deep camaraderie we build year after year are what keep me coming back.
As Senior Chaplain, I assemble and lead a dedicated support team. Our Missing Man Chaplains support those riding Missing Man, while our Platoon Chaplains offer moral and spiritual encouragement to all riders. The Chase Team handles broken-down bikes, assists with illnesses, and manages accidents, while the Hydration Team distributes snacks, drinks, and cooling ties at fuel stops ahead of the pack. What I love most about the Run is twofold: reconnecting with the friends and family I’ve made since 2015 while accomplishing this great mission, and participating in the outreach to families to assure them their loved ones are never forgotten—a connection that has personally changed my life.”

Captain Joseph Samuel Pirruccello, USAF

MIA 09/16/1966 – Laos

A graduate of the US Air Force Academy, Captain Joseph S. Pirruccello was a Spad pilot in Vietnam.  On December 8, 1968, he was sent out on a mission near Muong Song in Sam Nuea Province, Laos.  During the flight, his A-1E aircraft was hit by enemy fire and crashed.  No parachutes were seen and no beeper signals were received. It was not believed at the time that Pirruccello survived.  He was listed as killed, body not recovered (KIA/BNR), but there was ample evidence that the enemy could give more information about his fate.

Throughout the rest of the war, families of the men missing in Laos were assured that “every effort” was being made to find them and return them home.  Unlike POWs in Vietnam, men whom the Pathet Lao held captive were not allowed to write letters home.  They were closely guarded and only a handful were known to the U.S. by name.

Ironically, Sam Nuea Province, where Pirruccello’s aircraft went down was the location of a huge cave complex where many Americans were known to be held, out of sight from aircraft searching overhead.  The caves were huge, and extensive. There was reportedly even a bakery exclusively for Americans to relieve them of a constant rice diet.

When the war ended, and 591 Americans were released from Hanoi in 1973, military officials were dismayed that hundreds of known or suspected to be held prisoner were not released.  There were nearly 600 Americans lost in Laos, only nine Americans held by the Lao were released at the end of the war.  The nine had been transferred to Hanoi for return to the U.S.  Laos did not independently release any POWs.

DPAA has Captain Pirruccello’s case listed as “Active Pursuit.” He is remembered on Panel 37W Line 67 of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall

Never Forget

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

 

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Central Route Chronicles: September 2026 Edition

Stephen and Todd AF 2027

My son Stephen and I had an amazing time this past weekend in the beautiful mountains of New Mexico!  Our annual brick laying project at the Angel Fire Vietnam Veterans Memorial was accomplished with over 100 volunteers from ALL ROUTES.  Every brick is inscribed with a name that was read before it was escorted by volunteers or family members.  Your 2027 Assistant Route Coordinator, Ted “Boots” Kapner, 2011 Route Coordinator, Harry “Attitude” Steelman, and I were honored to announce each name on the brick before it was escorted to its final resting place along the paths of the Memorial.

None of this would have been possible without the countless hours of prep work.  A special thanks to Central Route Road Guard Kenny “Scooter” Keelin, Registration Team Lead Kathryn “Dark Cloud” Ewing, NM State Coordinator Patti “Yogi” Finley for their hard work and dedication to this project.

As the seasons begin to change, we are just one day away from the opening of registration for the 2026 Run For the Wall.  On September 11th, 2026 at 0846 the online registration page will become live.  I encourage everyone to register early as this gives our State Coordinators valuable information as they begin to coordinate with the communities that host us in May.

We are still looking for volunteers for all teams.  As you are aware it takes a small army to move 300 plus motorcycles across this great country!  If you are not a FNG, and are willing to help, please fill out a Volunteer Application found here. Once submitted, your application will be reviewed and forwarded to the appropriate team lead, and they will get in contact with you.

In closing, I would like to once again express my heartfelt thanks for allowing me to be your Route Coordinator this coming year.  Meetings are beginning to be scheduled, and the anticipation is beginning to rise.  Never forget those who paid the ultimate sacrifice, those who are still unaccounted for, and those who are currently serving.

Till next month…

Horton - RFTW Central Route Coordinator

Todd “Horton” Taylor
Central Route Coordinator

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Sandbox Route Coordinator Newsletter – September 2026

Can you believe September is already here? Hope everyone had a great Labor Day! As the temperatures start getting cooler, we can enjoy getting out and riding a little more and enjoy the changing scenery of the seasons before winter arrives.

Registration

It’s almost that time!! Registration for the 2027 Run For The Wall will open on September 11th, 2026, @ 8:46 a.m. (EST), 7:46 a.m. (Central), 6:46 a.m. (MST), and 5:46 a.m. (PST). Please register as soon as you can. We use the information to plan our stops, let our supporters know rider counts so they can plan their support, and allow the Platoon Coordinator to assign riders to their respective platoons.

Southern, Central, and Midway Routes all leave on Wednesday, May 19 – May 29 (10 days) to go from Ontario, California to Washington, D.C.

Sandbox Route leaves Sunday May 30 – June 1 (3 days) to go from Springfield VA (Washington, D.C.) to Marseilles, Illinois.

Upcoming Events

National POW/MIA Recognition Day is coming up and will be observed on Friday, September 18. This day is for honoring those who were held captive and returned, as well as those who remain missing. NEVER FORGET

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: This event IS NOT an official Run for the Wall event.

Planning

Your Sandbox Leadership Team has been working to fill the positions needed to make the RUN a success. Your State Coordinators are already out there, planning and coordinating with our supporters. We have read and heard what all the After Action Reports (AARs) have said, and we are looking at ways to improve the Route. With that being said, it’s not too late to let us know how we did last year. Thank you to all who have already submitted.

Volunteer Opportunities

If you are interested in volunteering to help out on the Run, we still have positions available. Please fill out the form at: RFTW.us > Sandbox Route > Volunteer Sign-up (https://rftw.us/volunteer-sign-up/). Some leadership positions require GMRS radios for communication. Keep in mind that FNGs are not permitted to volunteer for these positions, as we want them to fully experience the Run. Positions we are looking for include Risk Management Officer, Road Guards, Medical Team Members, Staging Team, Friend of Bill, Chaplains, Fuel Team, Asst Platoon Leaders, and Tail Gunners.

Pre Paid Fuel

This year, we will require pre-paid fuel again. As the Run approaches and we can better evaluate the ever-changing gas prices, we will set a final cost for you closer to the Run’s start. This will help speed up stops by eliminating the need to fumble for cash at the pumps and give you more time to use the restroom, hydrate, stretch, relax, and prepare for the next leg of the ride.

Let’s work together to make the Sandbox Route great! We will Continue the Mission safely and successfully! Remember, “A positive attitude causes a chain reaction of positive thoughts, events, and outcomes. It is a catalyst, and it sparks extraordinary results” (Wade Boggs)

Is it MAY Yet?

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Southern Route Newsletter – September 2026 Update

Welcome to September!

As we welcome September, we’re looking forward to cooler temperatures and some great riding weather. We hope everyone has had a safe and enjoyable summer.

Leadership Update

The Southern Route Leadership Team continues to meet regularly as we work together to make the 2027 Southern Route our best year. We’ve had many productive discussions and have meetings scheduled from now through Kickstands Up in May to ensure every aspect of the route is well planned and organized.

Mark Your Calendar

Southern Route 2027 Registration Opens September 11!

Registration for the 2027 Southern Route officially opens on September 11. Please use the registration link provided below to sign up.

https://rftw.us/

We encourage everyone to register as early as possible. Early registration plays a vital role in helping the leadership team accurately plan for riders, support vehicles, supplies, lodging, and all of the logistics that go into making the Southern Route a success.

Your early registration allows us to better prepare for an outstanding 2027 ride, and we sincerely appreciate your support.

Prepaid Fuel Program

One of the biggest initiatives we’re developing for 2027 is a mandatory prepaid fuel program.

This program is designed to:

  • Speed up fuel stops.
  • Eliminate cash handling and money exchanges at the pumps.
  • Improve safety and efficiency.
  • Give riders more time at each stop to use the restroom, hydrate, and prepare for the next leg of the ride.

We’re still finalizing the numbers and will provide each rider’s individual prepaid fuel cost closer to Kickstands Up, as fuel prices continue to fluctuate. A Day Rider prepaid fuel option will also be available.

Please remember that the prepaid fuel program also helps cover fuel for our Chase and Hydration vehicles. These support vehicles are an essential part of the ride, providing assistance when you need it most. Thank you for your continued support as we work to improve the experience for everyone.

Tom “Dizzy Devil” Bingham

Hello Southern Route. I am Tom “Dizzy Devil” Bingham. I am proud to have accepted the role of Medical Team Lead for the 2027 RFTW. I am a 25-year veteran as an EMT, working on an ambulance for both municipalities and private companies. I currently serve as a volunteer firefighter in Kendelia TX. I have served as a First Aid/CPR instructor and taught First Aid to scouts in Scouting America. On September 11th, 2001, I made the decision to enlist in the Marine Corps where I served as a radio operator, adding to my enjoyment of the Amateur Radio hobby. 2027 will serve as my 3rd “all the way” trip with RFTW and 2nd as Medical Team Lead. Those that remember me from last year, will remember my three favorite words “hydrate, hydrate, hydrate.

I am seeking two riders, with a medical background, to join the medical team. Even if you are only certified in First Aid/CPR, you can still be a member. As part of the medical team, you will be tasked with treating minor injuries (up to the basic first aid level) and encouraging riders to stay hydrated. As part of the team, you get to interact with everyone on the Run, allowing you to build even stronger friendships. The medical team works side by side with the Chase Team, helping riders that fall out during each leg. Being part of the Run for the Wall has given to each of us. Here is your chance to give back. If you are interested in being part of this rewarding experience, email me at KC9KOA@gmail.com  and start the conversation.

 

Johnnie “Bravo 6” Huddleston

Hello, Platoon Leaders. Registration starts in eleven days, which means, as the Platoon Coordinator, I will begin assigning riders to each platoon. There will be extra focus on the FNGs next year, as our ridership is dwindling and, as recruiters, we need to help increase it. Most of this recruitment begins with you, the Platoon Leaders, because many riders are not on any team. They are in a platoon, and you are the person who makes the first impression. After reading all of the AARs, I found that Platoon Leaders were not exempt from those discussions. Some were good; more were BAD. We must stop this! As I assigned people to platoons last year, I asked each Platoon Leader to contact your assigned riders, especially the FNGs, and introduce yourselves. This did not happen. I know because I spoke with 90% of the FNGs and some returning riders. They stated that they had not heard from their assigned Platoon Leaders. This poor communication cannot continue. If you have a problem talking with people you don’t know, then maybe this position is not for you. We must change this. Please talk with your leadership team and have a plan to communicate with your riders. Several AARs from FNGs stated that no hand signals were passed back. Please make this better. We are all part of a team. As team members, let’s make 2027 a very good year!

Some Communication Key Points:

  • Mandatory Rider’s (including passengers) Meeting every morning for Schedule/Route updates, weather and daily Mission Information
  • Mandatory Platoon Meeting every morning immediately following Rider’s Meeting (prior to 15-minute warning)
  • No talking during meetings, silence cell phones
  • Bad attitudes are unacceptable and will not be tolerated
  • Follow the directions of all Staging, Fuel Teams, and Road Guards
  • Primary communication on the road is by HAND SIGNALS – Observe & Pass them back
  • No Side-by Side riding in staggered platoons regardless of your riding skills

National POW/MIA Recognition Day is observed on the third Friday in September. “ September 18”

How will you recognize our POW/MIAs on September 18th?

“National POW/MIA Recognition Day was established in 1979 through a proclamation signed by President Jimmy Carter. Since then, each subsequent president has issued an annual proclamation commemorating the third Friday in September as National POW/MIA Recognition Day. A national-level ceremony is held on every National POW/MIA Recognition Day. Traditionally held at the Pentagon, it features members from each branch of military service and participation from high-ranking officials. In addition to the national-level ceremony, observances of National POW/MIA Recognition Day are held across the country on military installations, ships at sea, state capitols, schools, and veterans’ facilities. No matter where they are held, these National POW/MIA Recognition Day ceremonies share the common purpose of honoring those who were held captive and returned, as well as those who remain missing.

Since 1999, the POW/MIA Accounting community has created a poster commemorating National POW/MIA Recognition Day. The 2022 edition of the poster continues to honor this tradition.”

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, finds themselves struggling with their mental health, please know you can contact the VA Veteran’s Crisis Line by dialing 988, then pressing 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

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Midway Route Coordinator Newsletter – September 2026

RFTW Feature Midway Route

260 Days to KSU!

Now that the ‘DOG Days of Summer” are subsiding and as we celebrate Labor Day, back to school and football season we need to start thinking of what we need to do between now and next May to be prepared for the Midway Mission.

Hello FNG’s and Returning riders

Welcome to the Midway family! Let’s do a quick review of what our RFTW Organization is all about.

You do not need to be a veteran to ride, everyone is welcome! The ages of the participants range from eight to eighty. These include mothers, fathers, grandfathers, and grandmothers! Among the ridership you will find veterans, active-duty military, patriots, supporters, friends, and family.

“Is It May Yet”?

The Run occurs every May with the three coast to coast routes beginning around the middle of the month and culminating on the Friday of Memorial Day weekend. The fourth route “Sandbox”, begins on Sunday of the Memorial Day weekend. You will often hear members of the RFTW family lament, “Is it May yet?” because we are excited about this great ride and experience that we are preparing for you and wish it were May already.

Coast to Coast 2027
Ontario, California to Washington, D.C.

Midway Route:   Central Route:   Southern Route: All leave on Wednesday, May 19 – May 29 (10 days)

Wall to Wall
Washington, D.C. to Marseilles, Illinois

Sandbox Route:  May 30 – June 1 (3 days)

We Ride For Those Who Can’t

Run For The Wall began in 1989 as an effort by a couple of Vietnam Veterans who traveled across the heartland of America on motorcycles, talking to local radio, television, and newspapers about the fact that we had thousands of men and women still unaccounted for from all our wars.

The need for this awareness continues, so RFTW riders maintain this tradition every May by riding their motorcycles from “coast to coast”, and since 2022 from “wall to wall” honoring the men and women who served and paid the ultimate sacrifice from the gulf war conflicts.

RFTW does not give political speeches or stage demonstrations. Run For The Wall emphasizes its message by traveling through the United States in a safe and orderly manner, obeying traffic laws and treating all citizens with respect. Our motto is, “We Ride For Those Who Can’t”.

Raising public awareness is only part of the Mission of Run For The Wall. RFTW also gives veterans (from Vietnam and all wars and conflicts) the opportunity to receive the Welcome Home they so richly deserve, and an encouraging environment where they can further their healing process.

Many who have served our country, especially in combat, return with issues that may be unresolved. This can also extend to friends and families who have experienced the range of emotion and trauma associated with having a loved one go off to serve. RFTW riders find healing and camaraderie in the Run For The Wall family. They can finally start settling issues that have been put away for years.

Together We Ride

Run For The Wall is a motorcycle ride like none other. It is definitely not a party, but rather a mission of honor and an odyssey of patriotism and respect through the heart of the United States of America. On the Run we ride side by side (and in some cases staggered) in parade formation all the way. Each Route is led by a Route Coordinator and an Assistant Route Coordinator. At the head of the pack is the Missing Man formation.

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.  Once again Midway’s MMF will be led by James “Juice” Brown so be sure to contact him at James.brown.cbrr@hotmail.com with potential MM riders contact information so that he can get their spot reserved.

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.

The main pack of motorcycles is divided into platoons. Each platoon is headed by a Platoon Leader and an Assistant Platoon Leader as well as one or two Tail Gunners to help pace the group.

While most of the vehicles are conventional two-wheeled motorcycles (of all makes and models), there is also a healthy contingent of trikes and three-wheel vehicles such as Can-Am Spyders – and even a few motorcycles and trikes who tow trailers. That said, we do allow 4-wheel vehicles to register and drive the route of their choice, with the proviso that 4-wheelers drive 15 minutes (give or take) ahead of the pack and not interfere with the parking or staging of the pack at any of the stops. (Alternatively, 4-wheel vehicles may drive behind the pack, behind the last man vehicle and any chase trucks/trailers, but we prefer that you drive out ahead….) Four-wheel vehicle participants will still be able to take part in all the RFTW activities, but you must remain safely out of the way of the motorcycle pack. Please consider that some fuel stops and/or lunch stops are quite compressed and room to maneuver any 4-wheel vehicle around the 300-400 motorcycles staged in tight quarters could be challenging. (Polaris Slingshot – Our Official Policy on Polaris Slingshot’s is that these vehicles are the size of and essentially a “small car” and will follow the aforementioned protocol of other 4-wheel vehicles.)

Registration

Registration for the 2027 Run For The Wall will open on September 11th, 2026 @ 8:46 a.m. (EST), 7:46 a.m. (Central), 6:46 a.m. (MST), 5:46 a.m. (PST)

Please put this on your calendar, make a cup of coffee and be ready when registration opens. We really need your support on this to gather data necessary for additional planning. Thank you, in advance for your support.

Pre-Paid Fuel                                                          

As in 2026, we will have the mandatory pre-paid fuel program for 2027. This proved quite successful and was well received by both the riders and our Road Guards and Fuel Team.  My leadership team and I are researching costs to come up with a fair cost that you can pay when you register or on siter in Ontario. If you’re a day rider and only have a few days to join us then your fuel cost will be prorated.  We hope to maintain the same cost as in 2026. This program is extremely important so that our road guards and fuel team traffic control personnel can get you quickly off the road, into the pumps and to the staging location as safely and efficiently as possible where you can get off your vehicle, get hydrated and use the facilities. If you are fumbling in your wallet for money to pay your fuel cost, it lengthens the time for each vehicle at the pump.

Opportunities

Are you interested in further supporting Midway Route this year? Do you like being a part of the planning process? So, if you are not an FNG and have gone all the way at least once then I have some awesome and rewarding opportunities for you.  Volunteer signup forms are on the RFTW web site or can be reached at this link.  Midway Route Volunteer Signup Form

Current team openings on Midway are:

Chaplain, Promotions, Ambassadors, Medical, Road Guards, Advance Team, Fuel Team, Staging, Asst. Arkansas State Coordinator, Asst. Oklahoma State Coordinator and Asst. North Carolina State Coordinator.

We would love to have you join us as a member of our leadership team!!  So fill out the Volunteer Signup From and we’ll get it to the team lead and they will be in contact.

Here we GROW!

Let’s all see if we can help grow our Midway riders for ’27.  Please reach out to your friends, family, riding buddies or anyone else who you think would like to be a part of the largest organized coast to coast ride in the world.   By convincing a fellow veteran to ride with you to acquire the healing this adventure provides to many veterans who are struggling with their service.

Feel free to promote the Run generally and Midway specifically.  Below are a few marketing collateral items you can use to help you “spread the word”.

Fund Raising

We can all help the Run by doing a little fund raising.  Feel free to solicit local motorcycle shops, VFW’s, American Legion Posts, local business, etc…  Anyone can help secure funds for Midway by interacting with any or all of those entities.  There are a few guidelines to follow so if you would like more information on the process please give me a jingle.   Randy.sheets@rftw.us.

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.”

Please join our mission, get personally involved, pass the word and always remember the ones who went before us and some who made the ultimate sacrifice.

“Say their names”  “Never Forget”  “Tell their stories”

IS IT MAY YET!

Stinger

Randy “Stinger” Sheets
Midway Route Coordinator 2027

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Run For The Wall® Podcast Season 3 Episode 3 – Horton Heard A Who (Central Route Coordinator)

Run For The Wall Podcast
Horton

S3 E3 Horton Heard A Who (Central Route Coordinator)

You’ve heard him mentioned in nearly every episode since Season 1. Now, you get to hear from him yourself. Todd “Horton” Taylor joins us to share his experiences with Run For The Wall.

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!

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Southern Route Mid-Month Newsletter – August 2026

Southern Route Spotlight

Johnnie “Bravo 6” Huddleston

 

For many who participate in Run For The Wall, they take a few weeks in May to recognize, honor, and support our Veterans. There are those who have chosen to volunteer their time and energy, and that commitment goes largely unnoticed by the majority of our riders. Allow me to introduce you to one of those volunteers, one of the key people who keeps the Southern Route organized.

Johnnie “Bravo 6” Huddleston is our Platoon Coordinator. He is responsible for placing all our riders in an appropriate platoon once they register. He also works closely with the Route Coordinator to put all Platoon Leadership in place and helps each of the Team Leads fill their approved vacancies. Johnnie’s work begins as soon as the first Volunteer Request forms are submitted…yes, he’s been on the job since June. Johnnie also works tirelessly through the 10 days of travel to ensure that new participants are added to the appropriate platoons. His responsibilities also include helping to resolve any issues that may arise within the platoons while we are traveling.

Here is a little background from Johnnie in his own words:                                               

I did not retire from any civilian job, but I completed 36 years in the military and retired from there. During those 36 years, I was involved in a lot! I helped train thousands of soldiers who went off to war. Some of these soldiers I commanded. I helped equip them and their units. Then I served as the Battalion S-1 for the Medical Battalion that these wounded soldiers returned to at Ft. Benning, GA. I helped save a soldier who needed open-heart surgery by transferring her to my unit to ensure she would be eligible for the procedure. She called me from TX after her surgery to thank me. This is why I do the things I do!

My commander, who was an MP, suggested I consider the Military Police school, and I did. He works at the VA in Tuscaloosa, AL, and looks forward to the RFTW stopping there every year. I am still close to the soldiers I commanded. Some have died, and I am in touch with their families. I do this for them! During my FNG year, Bugs was the RC and Java Joe was my PL. Their leadership was so impressive to me, which is another reason I keep doing this! I learned about RFTW in 2018 while I was doing a PGR funeral. A lady named Vickie Meyer, who was on the Ambassador team, told me about RFTW. She answered all my questions. I linked up in Meridian, MS, and I’ve been recruiting for RFTW ever since.

Bravo 6 – Thank you for your hard work behind the scenes.

The history of Run For The Wall is founded on the service and sacrifice of our Vietnam Veterans. It is with that in mind that I want to ensure that our riders never forget their legacy. Each month I will be highlighting an MIA service member from Southeast Asia during the month they went missing. Please let me introduce you to;                   

James Cristof Becker, USA

MIA – 08/15/1970 – Laos

1st Lt James Christof Becker, from Texas, was a member of the US Army 71st Aviation Company, 14th Aviation Battalion, 16th Aviation Group, 23rd Infantry Division, and served as a helicopter pilot.

On August 15, 1970, a UH-1H Iroquois with a crew of four, including 1st Lt. Becker as the pilot, took off on a mission to extract a reconnaissance team in Laos. Because of the difficult terrain near the planned extraction zone, the five-member reconnaissance team climbed onto a rescue ladder lowered from the helicopter. As the aircraft rose, it was hit by enemy small arms fire and crashed. The five team members were knocked off the ladder as the helicopter descended through the trees; their fate remains unknown. Of the four crew members aboard the Iroquois, the aircraft commander and crew chief survived, returned to the extraction zone, and were rescued. Because of the location and the presence of hostile forces in the area, no attempt could be made to return for the other two crew members.

1st Lt Becker was last seen by one of the surviving crew members, upright in his seat; however, he appeared to have suffered a head wound in the crash. The two survivors could not take him with them when they left the crash site

1st Lt James Christof Becker is remembered on Panel 08W Line 113 of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall.

Dave “Double D” Davies

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Midway Route Coordinator Newsletter – August Update!

We Ride For Those Who Can't

Greetings Midway Family,

I hope your summer is going well!  We’re almost to September which brings cooler weather, the beginning of Fall and Fall Colors and football!  We also have some exciting news to share regarding our current Board of Directors.  After 5 years, John “Turkey” Staub is cycling off the Board as President and Billie “Bugs” Dunlap has assumed that position.  Alan “X-Box” Steiner is also leaving the Board after 3 years as Operations Director.

Also in transition on the Board are a few current Board members who are moving into new roles as well.  Ted “Boots” Kapner is leaving the Board and his position of Public Relation Director of 5+ years to use his skills as Assistant Route Coordinator for Central Route.  Ted will continue to Co-Host our Podcast with Tai “Hitch” Harmon so keep looking for those informative and sometime funny postings.  The podcast can be reached here.  RFTW Podcasts

Please join me in thanking these three fine folks who have worked very hard at leading and improving RFTW as we continue to successfully plan towards completing our mission, and it is a mission.

We have some new additions to the board as well.  They are “Branda “Baby Doll” Huddleston as Secretary and Kirk “Pretty Boy” Olson as Public Relation Director.  Please check out the President’s posting on these changes and to get to know more about your Board members.  Here’s the link: RFTW Presidents Newsletter .

Finally, we have an open position on the Board which anyone can apply for.  It’s our Operations Director was recently vacated as Alan “X-Box” Steiners term has ended.  You can find out the requirements for this position at : Operations Director Application so if you are looking for a meaningful, but challenging way to support RFTWs mission and riders feel free to apply.

“Say their names”

“Never Forget”

“Tell their stories”

IS IT MAY YET!

Stinger

Randy “Stinger” Sheets
Midway Route Coordinator 2027

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President’s Newsletter: Hail & Farewell Edition

Billie "Bugs" Dunlap and the Southern Route Road Guards

Greetings from Weatherford, Texas y’all!

If you’d told me in May of 2011 when I met up with Jim “Stoney” Stone in Wytheville for my first Run that I’d now be writing a President’s newsletter – I wouldn’t have even known there was a Board of Directors!  Our Riders, our Run and our Mission have come a long way in the 15 years since then and I am truly honored to have the opportunity to serve all three in this new role.  More on that in another newsletter, but for now, more changes are upon us…

Hail & Farewell

Every organization experiences turnover of leadership and ours is no different.  From every Team on every Route through the RCs and the Directors, great American Veterans and Patriots dedicate large portions of their time and treasure to plan and prepare for this Mission and for the Run each year and into the future.  There are too many to name here, but there are three to whom we bid farewell from the Board of Directors this month.

John “Turkey” Staub, President
John Staub departs after 6 years in service on the Board of Directors having presided as President for nearly 4 years, a span over which most would find exceedingly exhausting to the point of resignation.  But John’s wholehearted dedication to the Mission and the strategic planning initiatives required to see this Run continue long into the future fueled his consistent drive to keep moving it forward.  On more than one occasion, his strong leadership and pragmatic guidance for overcoming complex obstacles that threatened the continuation of the Run made the difference between moving forward and being cancelled another year.  Yet he never sought accolades or awards for his efforts – for those truly dedicated to our Mission, the satisfaction of service towards a successful outcome can be its own reward.  When you see John in Ontario next year, just shake his hand and say, “Thank you!” and you’ll both know what it’s for.

Alan “X-Box” Steiner
Alan Steiner came to the Board of Directors about three years ago with the assignment to assume control of RFTW Merchandise sales and procurement.  Picking up the reigns of a department that was performing at less-than-optimal level, Alan applied logical engineering principles for balancing properly planned processes to create a product line available to our riders that was innovative and reflected the sentiment of the Mission.  The result was new methods for merchandise tracking, new product lines, point of sale convenience and committed suppliers – all of which worked together to increase Merchandise variety and availability or our Riders.  After changing over to Director of Operations last year, Alan applied the same dedicated planning  and consistent processes to ensure the RFTW Planning and Preparations for Ontario and Springfield were well organized and well executed.  Thank you Alan for your dedicated service to the Run and its Mission!

Ted “Boots” Kapner
Ted Kapner is well into his fifth year on the Board of Directors where his tremendous talent for Public Relations and Digital Media has crossed paths with a passion for motorcycling and the RFTW Mission to create a perfect storm of innovation in support of the RFTW Public Image.  From his early work into Social Media advertising to reaching personal contacts in the Motorcycle industry to helping develop a very effective Podcast presence and an absolutely World Class Website, “Boots” has had a hand in almost every public facing presentation we currently enjoy.  Working with Tai “Hitch” Harmon, the RFTW Podcast has introduced dozens of RFTW Leaders, Riders and Supporters to provide better personal insights to the heart of the Run that beats strongly in our people.  His dedication to RFTW continues as he leaves the Board to take on a more direct Operational Leadership Challenge as Assistant Route Coordinator on the Central Route.  Ted Kapner’s unparalleled positive contributions to developing the image and persona of this organization on the National Stage won’t end with his departure as the effects of his efforts will continue to support the strategic success of Run For The Wall well into the future!  Watch for Ted in Ontario and on the Road – more great things to come from Boots!

On the flip side, we are adding one new and one returning Board member…

Branda “Baby Doll” Huddleston
Branda Huddleston is one half of a dynamic duo of dedication to RFTW and the Mission along with husband Johnny “Bravo 6”!  She joins the Board of Directors as Secretary, filling the spot recently vacated by our new Chairman & Vice President, Corey “SunBear” Lederer.  Branda is an accomplished rider with experience in Leadership Service to RFTW riders as well as leadership with other similarly oriented Veteran motorcycle organizations.  Her heart for the Mission was sparked early in life as her Veteran family instilled in her a love of country and honorable service to our nation.  Branda will be an outstanding addition to the Board and a great asset to our Run as we develop plans for progress into the future.  Welcome Branda!

Kirk “Pretty Boy” Olson
Kirk Olson previously served as RFTW Public Relations Director on the Board until 2019 when he became a Road Guard Captain.  His service to RFTW through that tenure brought early innovation and new capabilities that became the foundation of our current PR successes.   Following his successful tour as ARC and then Central Route Coordinator on the 2025 Run, he now returns as the Director of Public Relations and Communications, bringing his dedication to the Mission and to our Riders.  We welcome Kirk back to the Board with full confidence that his heart for service to the Mission will further enhance the public image and outreach of our Run.

That leaves one seat open…

We are now taking applications to fill the vacant Director of Operations role.  The deadline for applications is 31 AUG 2026 with an expected fill within 2 weeks of that date.  You can find full details of the application requirements as well as a description of the responsibilities and expectations for service as the Director of Ops at this link.  It’s a challenging role for sure, but one which has a huge impact on very important aspects of our Run.  Early applications with complete documentation will be greatly appreciated!

2027 Registration

2027 Run Registration will open on Friday, 11 SEP 2026 at 8:46am Eastern Time.  Watch for further announcements with details for this year’s registration. As always, the link for registration may be found on the RFTW Homepage or accessed directly here.

The Mission Rolls Forward

Speaking with our Founder, Gunny Gregory a few days ago, we talked about how the Mission has necessarily evolved over the years.  The Mission of the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) continues with slow and steady progress, but the important part is that it continues… and we are watching because our family still needs answers!  Some have suggested we should revise our Mission statement due to some aspects seeming beyond a meaningful effort – I wholly disagree.  Instead of changing how that Mission statement looks, we need to change how we look at it.  There is one primary focus for all four parts of that Mission – PEOPLE!  Promote healing among PEOPLE, call for an accounting of PEOPLE, honor the memory of PEOPLE, and support our PEOPLE!  Every single one of our RFTW family is one of those people, or knows one of those people, or is related to one of those people, or has been one of those people but we truly care about ALL those people.  It all starts with you, deep inside a heart for service and support for our amazing American Veterans and Patriots.

In just under a month, please find the time to Register early when it opens and get yourself pointed toward a great day in May as we take to heart Todd Beamer’s words challenging us to action and join in on this great Mission of Healing and Remembrance…

“Let’s roll!”

Sincerely,

Bugs

Bugs