Posted on by

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

Posted on by

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

Posted on by

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.

Posted on by

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

 

Posted on by

November 2025 Central Route Coordinator Newsletter

The leaves dropping from the giant maple tree in my backyard is reminding me that November is here, time to rake and clear the gutters and to get ready for the Holiday Season.

There are only 52 shopping days until Christmas, 59 days left in 2025 and before you know, it will be May.

Your leadership team is hard at work trying to get all the pieces in place for a successful run.  But Staging and Fueling Teams still need volunteers, and I am seeking someone for the Raffle Rouser role.

Our State Coordinators are diligently working on hotels rooms, fuel stops, and donors for the run.

Registration

If you have not registered yet, please do so now.  It is important to register early so that our leadership knows how many people to plan for.  These numbers are critical for things like our donated fuel stops, blocked hotel reservations, and donated fuel.  We do not want to over or underestimate what we need for the Run.

We currently have 119 registered participants for the Central Route, which is down from 151 this time a year ago.  We still only have one rider with a trailer registered.

I would like to welcome the 18 FNG’s that have registered so far for the Central Route.  I know you will have a lot of questions, be sure to reach out to our FNG Coordinator, Bernadette Staples, for answers.

Remember, you are all ambassadors for the Run so please get out and recruit for the run. Please get the word out.

Information flyers are available at: https://rftw.us/rftw-brochures-flyers/

Donations

Public Donations help keep our costs down on the Run.  Donations can be made to the RFTW General Fund or specifically to one of the Routes.

Options to donate:

The DONATE Button – on the rftw.us website.  Donors can direct the donation to any Route or RFTW General Fund.

ZELLE –  email addresses for the Routes are: central.route@rftw.us for Central. It is important not to miss the . before “route”

CHECK – Checks should be made out to “Run For The Wall, Inc.”  Be sure to write what route or purpose the money should be allocated to in the memo section of the check.  Checks should be mailed to the RFTW Treasurer for depositing and proper accounting.  Any checks received by others should be forwarded to the Treasurer right away.

The RFTW Treasurer Official mailing address is:

Run For The Wall Inc.
50 Fourth Avenue, Unit 1445
Dayton, NV 89403-8169

As a reminder, if you happen to get a cash donation or check from someone please do not hold onto it, rather send it into the Treasurer for proper accounting.  If you need a donation letter, just contact me.

Camping in Ontario:

There is no camping at the Ontario Elks Lodge without prior approval.  Their lot has spaces allocated for vendors and other designated activities.  You cannot just show up and expect to pitch your tent on any open space.  If you wish to camp in Ontario, send me or our camping coordinator and email for options.

November Events

There are several RFTW get togethers scheduled for November in Arizona, Colorado, and Northern California.  Check out the events page for more information.  https://rftw.us/events/

Tun Tavern

 

Also, 250 years ago, on November 10, 1775, the Continental Congress commissioned Samuel Nicholas to raise two Battalions of Marines.  Nicholas went to Tun Tavern, located in Philadelphia, and appointed Robert Mullan, then the tavern proprietor, as the Chief Marine Recruiter.  Men flocked to the tavern to take up arms as the first Continental Marines fighting for their new country in the American Revolution.  As they say, the rest is history.

Remember that Tuesday, November 11 is Veteran’s Day.  Take a moment to remember and appreciate those veterans for their patriotism, love of country, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good.

 

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

 

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

I wish you and your family to have a Happy and Safe Thanksgiving and Holiday Season.   Remember only male turkeys gobble, female turkeys (hens) cackle and don’t call 911 to ask the dispatcher how to cook your turkey, call the Butterball hotline instead.

Is it May yet?

Jim “Who?” McDonough
XXXVI Central Route Coordinator

Posted on by

November 2025 Southern Route RC Newsletter

RFTW Southern Route

RFTW Southern Route Newsletter November 2025


Run For The Wall Mission
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

Good Day, everyone!  Not to sound pushy or repetitive, HYDRATE, HYDRATE, HYDRATE!  For all those who’ve ridden on any of our routes, those words are quite familiar.  For my FNGs, get used to them as they will be used for the entire time you’re in any of the Ontario meetings and briefings.  I carry several thermoses with me on my bike, and I carry one with me when I’m out and about.  I put my road name on the bottom of all that I have, so when I forget one somewhere, please look on the bottom of the thermos and you’ll know it’s mine.

We have 192 days left until Kick Stands Up.  All three Coast-to-Coast routes will be leaving on 13 MAY 26.  Our registration numbers are growing, and we’re looking forward to getting more.

REGISTRATION

Early Bird registration will run through 31 January 2026, and the fee is $100.  I encourage 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 as they work with the folks who donate their time and money so the Southern Route is successful.

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.

RFTW Resources

The RFTW website has some informative, interesting, and useful information about the routes and experiences riders have had.  These include, but are not limited to:

  • Podcasts – Ted “Boots” Kapner and Tai “Hitch” Harmon host guests who are involved with Run For the Wall. There’s always something to learn from these interesting and, at times, funny podcasts.
  • Forum – The RFTW forum is filled with subjects about RFTW. There’s information for FNGs (Fine New Guys) where you can also ask questions and have experienced people guide you with ideas on having the best experience possible.  If you’re an experienced RFTW rider, there are still many opportunities to learn or spread your knowledge about the run.  Do you need to find a roommate to share hotel expenses with?  The forum is a great place to post and start a conversation with a potential roommate.
  • Local meetings – around the country are posted, so in most cases, you will find a monthly meeting within a couple of hours or less from your home. If that’s not the case, you can always start your own monthly meeting by posting on the forum, and help is always available.
  • GMRS radios – we have moved on from CB radios to GMRS, which has a greater distance with better clarity. They also have a sub-audio signal that provides privacy, so extraneous non-RFTW transmissions will not affect us.  BTECH (https://baofengtech.com/) radio has a special; they will honor an RFTW special to sell a radio with a PTT (push to talk) button for $140.  Again, there are great videos produced by a former RC, Kirk “Pretty Boy” Olsen on how to set up the radios.  There are other resources also but the forum is a good place to start.
  • FNG stories – riders share some stories from their experience as an FNG and some of the “Magic of the Run” we experience. If you have a good story, this is a good place to share.

MISCELLANEOUS, but Important

As always, prior to the Run, keep two things in mind.  Keep up the maintenance on your bike/trike.  Your operator’s manual will tell you the scheduled maintenance that needs to be done.  Did you know that on a Harley, the oil in the front forks should be changed every two years?  Goldwings, it’s every 2-3 years.  Look at your tires, making sure you’re not touching the wear bars.  If you’re close, replace the tires.  Remember to check your chain/belt/driveshaft to ensure there is no damage or leaks.

REMEMBERANCE

With all that we have to do to keep our home life running smoothly and having to work to support our families, there are challenges that show up and have to be dealt with.

Since the time we had our entire Run family photo taken, the Southern Route has lost three of our riders.

Michael “Wizard” Turner
Rick “Speed Bump” Shoaf
Brad “Groot“ Knowland

 

 

 

 

 

 

We lost Brad “Groot“ Knowland shortly after we all made it home while succumbing to injuries he sustained while doing chores at home.  Brad was a member of our 2025 Medical Team and was a great help with medical issues that arose, as well as other problems that he observed and took charge of.

Michael “Wizard” Turner was a long-time rider in the Southern Route and a member of the Board of Directors.  We lost Wizard as he was riding to the reunion in Kerrville.  His wife, Linda, was also seriously injured and continues to heal physically.

We also lost Rick “Speed Bump” Shoaf, our Fuel Team Lead.  He had retired from the Navy as a Search and Rescue swimmer.  He loved being Fuel Team Lead and was someone I could go to with issues that were not related to the Fuel Team.

Our thoughts and prayers are with all the families and friends of those lost. We will be able to move forward in our lives, remembering these brothers who have brought so much good into our lives.

Although we’ve encountered these events, we still have much to be thankful for. Thanksgiving is just a little under four weeks away, we’ll be sharing that day with family and friends, and it’s a time of fellowship and thanks for all that we have and the blessings that have been bestowed upon us.  If there’s a military facility close by, there will be servicemembers who would sincerely enjoy having a Thanksgiving meal off-post.

Thank you, riders, for your support of Run For The Wall and the Southern Route.

Is it May yet!
We ride for those who can’t!
Ride safe!

David “Buzz” Mullen
SR RC 2026

Posted on by

Midway Route Coordinator Newsletter – November 2025

Midway Route

194 Days to KSU!

The day and night of ghosts and goblins is over and next up is our day of Thanksgiving. We are now in the season of giving thanks and appreciation to our many friends and family. Many who we met and became friends as members of this great Midway family. Be sure to let them know that they are in your thoughts and prayers during this season of remembrance and sharing.

“Never forget the reason for the season”

 

I would like to take this moment to personally thank all my friends and family members I have made over the last 17 years and the healing and camaraderie we have shared. It has been a true blessing for me to be a member of this great Midway family.

Fall is a great time of year. For some of us, the riding season is bringing on the challenge of staying dry (testing our rain gear) and warm (testing our heated gear).  For others, the riding season is just beginning. You can never do too much preparation for the run, and getting in as much riding as you can (especially long-distance riding) is one of the best ways to prepare. Regardless of where you live, if you are planning to ride ALL THE WAY on one of the 3 cross-country routes you will ride at least 3000 miles, 6000 if you are returning to the west coast.

Another great way to prepare is to take a Motorcycle Rider Course. There are many types of classes taught at various levels, check your local Harley dealers or on line for local law enforcement advanced courses. If it’s been a while since you took a class, you might want to investigate honing your skills before joining the Midway route in May.

Register for the 2026 Run now

The Midway Route now has just shy of 90 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!!!

Looking to make a difference, in addition to riding?

The Midway Team is really coming together. The State Coordinators are hard at work coordinating with the great people that support and feed us at our stops, as well as the Gas Stations and Hotels that accommodate us.

It takes a village to get all those riders across the U.S. in 10 days.  We need people to volunteer for the various positions of the Run, whether it be in a leadership or support role.  Even if you do not ride a motorcycle, there may be things you can do to help us out.

The teams are almost full, but we could still use some help on Staging, Fuel, Medic teams and Registration lead position. If you are interested in being a part of any of these great teams, go the RFTW site and fill out  a volunteer application and get it submitted. I assure you that your leadership team will respond and attempt to place you in the position you desire, if you meet the qualifications.

FNG’S (Friendly new guys/Gals)

Midway leadership is developing many exciting opportunities for our FNG community for 2026. Midway Outreach and Ambassador teams are working at bringing numbers of FNG’s to each breakout to overpasses, veteran’s hospitals and homes, schools and many more.

Missing man formation opportunities are being developed and will be announced soon through our Missing Man Coordinator. His name is James “Juice” Brown and he will be reaching out to the FNG’s and riding community shortly with the limited spaces he will have available to ride in the prestigious position in the missing man formation, in the front of the midway pack, directly behind the route coordinator.

All these opportunities and more guidance will be announced to you through the midway route FNG coordinator. His name is Roger “Bullseye” Ford and he will be reaching out to each of you shortly.

This will be an outstanding adventure for all FNG’s riding in 2026.

Gulf War Veterans

As a fellow veteran of the Gulf War, I salute each of you and along with your Midway leadership team, we are developing exciting opportunities for you to show our respect and to celebrate your service.

This year is dedicated to you and your service to this nation and us all.

I will give further information as the plans develop and solidify.

Check out the Forum

There are various costs associated with RFTW. Besides the cost of making sure your bike is ready for the trip (good battery, fresh fluids, plenty of tire tread, everything tightened, working lights, etc.) there is the registration fee, prepaid gas fee, topping off each evening or morning, and a place to sleep. Hotel rooms are probably the largest expense on the run.  One of the best ways to help keep your cost down is to have a roommate. The new Forum has a ton of topics from GMRS radios, to various meet ups, to items for sale. It is also an excellent place to post that you are looking for a roommate to share hotel costs. And, if you are planning on sharing a hotel room, the trick is to get rooms with two beds. The hotel list for all routes is released on January 1, 2026. Each hotel has a limited number of rooms with two beds in the RFTW blocks. If you plan on sharing hotel rooms, you might want to consider booking early on New Years Day.

Platoon Assignments

The registration information has been released for our route. The Midway Platoon Coordinator, Joe “Java Joe” Bookataub, is starting to place riders in platoons based on the info you provided on your registration form. Type of bike you are riding, preference of riding (side by side or staggered), riding with friends, etc.  As he gets the platoon information out to the Platoon Leaders, they will be contacting the riders assigned to their platoon so everyone knows ahead of the run what platoon they will be in. If you are in a platoon that doesn’t work for you, or would rather be in a different platoon with friends, just let your Platoon Leader know so we can make requested adjustments.

Why We Ride

There are so many wonderful things about RFTW and specifically the Midway route. The amazing people you meet who quickly accept you and become family you look forward to seeing year after year. The incredible ride across our great nation and the dedicated patriotic supporters that feed us and wave to us from overpasses every year.  And of course, the Mission. I can find no way to put into words how powerfully our Mission affects me. I am humbled to be part of such a great cause and to honor and remember those that have made the ultimate sacrifice to keep our country free. Above all else, while you are on the run, please keep our Mission in mind.

Midway Route Overpass

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.”

“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

Posted on by

Run For The Wall® Podcast Season 2 Episode 6 – Central ROOOOT Coordinator Jim “Who” McDonough

RFTW Podcast

Run For The Wall® Podcast Season 2 Episode 6 – Central ROOOOT Coordinator Jim “Who” McDonough.

Is it ROOOOT or Route? Jim “Who” McDonough helps us settle it.

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.