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January 2025 Central Route Newsletter

Happy New Year to RFTW and Central Route Riders!  We are 4-months and 1-week until kickstands up, and the commencement of RFTW 2025 – The 35th Annual Run!

(This newsletter is best read at this link.)

The hotel list officially will be released on Jan 10. Remember, if some place is full, there are always neighboring hotels and options that may not be on the list. Let Google be your friend.

I’d like to start the New Year – 2025 with a bit of reflection on 2024.  Personally, for me it was a challenging year, at least in my professional life. I still work full-time, unlike all of you “retired” guys and gals out there.  I was laid-off, but I look at it this way… I would not be where I am now if it had not been for that little bit of discomfort. After the layoff happened, I reached out to the company I used to sell against, one thing led to another, and they snapped me up immediately.  And I am much happier and better for it.

I’ve been doing RFTW every year since 2009. I’ve seen it all; sun, heat, rain, snow, and cold, and even hail.  It does not matter which route you do, we’ve all had our share of mother nature’s wrath.  Southern Route years ago had a Run now known as, “To Hail and Back”, and several years later a thunderstorm followed them almost literally from coast-to-coast. They were drenched when they got to DC.  On Central Route years ago (2011) we encountered a little bit of snow in ARIZONA of all places! A year later we rode thru a storm on the way to Junction City, KS, and we were drenched when we got there.  I looked like I jumped into a swimming pool with my clothes on.  My point in telling you these stories, is that you as a rider need to be prepared.  As leadership, we have the safety of the Pack always on our minds. Most years it’s quite normal.  In my opinion, I think overall we have some of the most temperate weather, like Goldilocks… Not too hot , and not too cold.  I’ve done RFTW many, many times with pleasant weather coast-to-coast, where it didn’t even rain.  2024 was a different story. I was the Asst Route Coordinator in 2024, and our RC then, Nick told me to take the pack from our lunch stop in Oakley, KS to our fuel stop in Bunker Hill, KS. Before we left, myself and several others checked weather radar, and there was no weather ahead on the route.  30-minutes into our leg a storm blew up around us out of nowhere, and it started to hail. We eventually, made it to our stop, and all riders were accounted for. We had to wait for the storm to pass, and we made it into Junction City later in the evening.  People in the local area called this a once in a 75-year event.  So, the good news is we should be clear for 2025!!

I reflect on this because a local, someone in Kansas saw us and posted about us, and we found out about it the next day. This guy was part of a storm watch group.  Anyway, he posted, from his vehicle on I-70,  “West of Hays, KS. 3-inch hail and tornado warning. POW/MIA bikers are built different.”

That really stuck with me because YOU the people that do RFTW, that come back year-after-year, you FNGs that do this for the first time, YOU ALL ARE DIFFERENT.   We are on a Mission, and We Ride for Those Who Can’t. You/We ride with honor, pride, and integrity, never forgetting those that came before us, and those that paid the ultimate sacrifice for the freedoms we all enjoy..  And that gentleman from Kansas was right — Run for the Wall Riders ARE BUILT DIFFERENT.  I tell you this because that will also be our motto for the 2025 Central Route 35th Annual Run.

Click this link if you can’t see the embedded post below from that gentleman in Kansas:
https://www.facebook.com/RunForTheWall/posts/763425662574782

Route planning continues to be underway.  As early as a couple of days ago, we were going to have a small detour around Albuquerque, NM, from Route 66 Casino gas stop, but our State Coordinator, Patti Finley continued to work with NM DOT, and they have assured us the route thru Albuquerque will now be the same as always. The issue was major construction at the interchange of I-40 and I-25.  For you FNGs, the entire State of New Mexico gives us a border-to-border escort brigade of police and state troopers that shutdown I-40 and I-25 for us.  I share this story with you, so you get a glimpse of what our hardworking State Coordinators do all-year long.  They assist with the route plan, work with hotels for special rates, gas stops, meal coordination with volunteer organizations,  and are the go-to persons in their respective states.   When you see them, please give them a big thank you!

Central Route is in need of a Route Photographer and a Videographer.  These can be one or two positions.  If you have an eye for photography, or are a photography hobbyist/enthusiast, please get in touch with me directly at: kirk.olson@rftw.us. (If no one steps up we may have to resort to taking up a collection fund and/or start a Go Fund Me page to bribe Jerry Lanier from Southern Route, or Jim McCrain from Midway Route to be the photographer on Central Route for 2025.😂  In all seriousness, I hope to find as dedicated individuals as those guys, and our past and now retired photographers, Dan Eckstein and Alan Steiner.)  Again, if you have the photo and/or video bug, please reach out to me.

Additionally, I am also seeking a TRIKE Platoon LEADER for Platoon 9.  Same goes here, email me directly, kirk.olson@rftw.us.

For you new riders and FNGs, in the next coming month or two, you will be contacted by our Platoon Coordinator and Registration team.  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.

Register for the 2025 Run now

Price of Registration increases FEBRUARY 1!!  Get in on the lowest registration fee of $60 now! $60 registration fee is good thru Jan 31. Price is slightly lower under the Day Rider Program.  Go to the registration page now.  Everyone is highly encouraged to REGISTER for RFTW in 2025 now.  This helps us make an accurate plan for May.  If you are in Leadership you need to be getting registered now, if not already.  Your registration is your indication to us that you are committing to your volunteer position.  FNGs please also register as early as you can.  We know plans can change.

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 it.

Volunteer forms have been coming in for 2025. I send them to the appropriate crew and team leaders when I get them.  That being said, if you are interested in a volunteer position on Central Route, it’s also OK to reach out to that particular team or crew lead, in addition to sending in a form. Platoon Leaders pick their own APL’s and Tail Gunners (with RC approval). Road Guards, Staging, Fuel, Ambassadors, Outreach, Medical, and Chaplain volunteers are brought on by those team leads, and again approved by the RC. Don’t be discouraged if a team is full, there is a lot of time between now and May. Things always change. Central Route crews & teams are now just starting to be put together for 2025.

See you next month. Drop me an email anytime.

Honor and Remember Them All.
Remember, RFTW Riders are Built Different.

Kirk “Pretty Boy” Olson
kirk.olson@rftw.us

RFTW Central Route Coordinator – 2025
Asst. Route Coordinator – 2024
Road Guard Captain – 2023
Asst. Road Guard Captain – 2019
BoD of Directors – 2016-2019
Road Guard 2010-2018
FNG 2009

If you have not seen from previous newsletters by me or the other Route Coordinators from Southern, Midway, and Sandbox, RFTW is moving to GMRS for our on-road communications. This is not as big of a transition for us on Central Route this year in 2025, since we piloted the GMRS radios in 2024, and they worked very well.  My advice to you all is to get the radio now, and learn how to use, pair, and connect them to your helmet speakers or ear drums.  Also, help our friends on Southern, Midway, and Sandbox get theirs set-up and paired. Personally, I use a Sena 50S paired to the radio, and I paired the radio as PHONE 2, to the radio. See Sena directions, on how to do this.

**See this post on Where and What to Buy, and all things GMRS for RFTW.**

**See this Post for Videos on how to Program the radios** or here.

Donate to the RFTW and the Central Route

If you find it within your heart to support Run for the Wall and RFTW Central Route, please consider making a donation.  This will help make  RFTW 2025 and the 35th Annual Run a complete success. Donate Online – Here

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

Or mail a check to:
Run for the Wall Inc.
Central 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.

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Central Route – December 2024 Newsletter

I hope this message finds everyone well as we start to prepare for the upcoming Holiday and Christmas Season. In regards specifically to the Run and Central Route, I can report that planning is going  as smoothly as can be at this stage with us being 5-months out from kickstands up in May 2025.  All of  our State Coordinators have finalized our overnights with our partner hotels from Arizona to West 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.

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

Remember, this is going to be a very special Run in 2025 because it is the 35th Annual Run of RFTW and it is the 50th Anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War.  Again, as a reminder due to these special anniversaries, we are making an extra effort to salute and honor our Vietnam Veterans this year, as they are the ones that paved the way for RFTW, its mission, and to what it has become, and why it means so much to all of us today.

I am currently in need of a volunteer to be the back-up Photographer.  And I am also seeking a Videographer. If you’re a photographer or videographer hobbyist, please get in touch with me at: kirk.olson@rftw.us

I wish you and your families the very best this Christmas and Holiday Season, and seeing you all in May 2025!

Remember those that serve.  I’ll leave you with a special Christmas Story from WWI.

(The videos I’ve embedded, may only show properly if you go to this newsletter at the rftw website. Click on “Read on blog” in the upper right from the email.)

Christmas Truce of 1914

Kirk Olson
Route Coordinator 2025 – Central Route
kirk.olson@rftw.us | (303) 588-6125

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October 2024 Central Route Newsletter

Happy almost Halloween, Run for the Wall Riders and Greetings from the Central Route!

Route planning continues to be underway.  A few weeks ago we had our first Leadership meeting with all of the Team leads, and also held a meeting with all of our State Coordinators.  In regards to the route, it will look much like last year.  At this time, the only change from 2024 to 2025 will be our overnight on Day 8, Wednesday, May 21, 2025, and we will be overnighting and pulling into Hurricane, WV instead of Nitro, WV.

Run for the Wall stickerDue to it being the 35th Annual Run in May 2025, and the 50th Anniversary of the official end of the Vietnam War, we will be having a special “Vietnam Veterans” platoon.  This platoon will be made up of Vietnam Veterans ONLY. At registration and check-in make sure that you tell our registration team to put you in this special platoon, if you are a Vietnam veteran, and would like to ride in this platoon.  If the US Department of Defense bestowed the Vietnam campaign ribbon to you, you are welcome to request and ride in this platoon.

Register for the 2025 Run now

Everyone is highly encouraged to REGISTER for RFTW in 2025 now.  This helps us make an accurate plan for May.  If you are in Leadership you need to be getting registered now, if not already.  Your registration is your indication to us that you are committing to your volunteer position.  FNGs please also register as early as you can.  We know plans can change.

There have been some questions on how to program the GMRS radios.  As promised, How-to Videos have been made, and they are now posted in the RFTW Forum, and on YouTube.

How to Set-up and Program BTECH GMRS Pro Bluetooth Radio with iPhone or Android - Part 1

Program CTCSS Codes on BTECH GMRS Pro Bluetooth Radio without a phone or app. Part 2

How to pair BTECH GMRS Pro Bluetooth Radio to Sena or Cardo for motorcycling. Part 3

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 it.

Volunteer forms have been coming in for 2025. I send them to the appropriate crew and team leaders when I get them.  That being said, if you are interested in a volunteer position on Central Route, it’s also OK to reach out to that particular team or crew lead, in addition to sending in a form. Platoon Leaders pick their own APL’s and Tail Gunners (with RC approval). Road Guards, Staging, Fuel, Ambassadors, Outreach, Medical, and Chaplain volunteers are brought on by those team leads, and again approved by the RC. Don’t be discouraged if a team is full, there is a lot of time between now and May. Things always change. Central Route crews & teams are now just starting to be put together for 2025.

I can tell you as of now, I have openings for a Videographer.  Staging is also going to need a few more bodies, as of now, as well.

See you next month. And drop me an email anytime.

Honor and Remember Them All,

Kirk “Pretty Boy” Olson
kirk.olson@rftw.us

RFTW Central Route Coordinator – 2025
Asst. Route Coordinator – 2024
Road Guard Captain – 2023
Asst. Road Guard Captain – 2019
BoD of Directors – 2016-2019
Road Guard 2010-2018
FNG 2009

If you have not seen from previous newsletters by me or the other Route Coordinators from Southern, Midway, and Sandbox, RFTW is moving to GMRS for our on-road communications. This is not as big of a transition for us on Central Route this year in 2025, since we piloted the GMRS radios in 2024, and they worked very well.  My advice to you all is to get the radio now, and learn how to use, pair, and connect them to your helmet speakers or ear drums.  Also, help our friends on Southern, Midway, and Sandbox get theirs set-up and paired. Personally, I use a Sena 50S paired to the radio, and I paired the radio as PHONE 2, to the radio. See Sena directions, on how to do this.

**See this post on Where and What to Buy, and all things GMRS for RFTW.**

Donate to the RFTW and the Central Route

If you find it within your heart to support Run for the Wall and RFTW Central Route, please consider making a donation.  This will help make  RFTW 2025 and the 35th Annual Run a complete success. Donate Online – Here

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

Or mail a check to:
Run for the Wall Inc.
Central 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.

Posted on 1 Comment

September 2024 – Central Route Newsletter

The end of August and early September is typically quite busy for RFTW riders.  As I mentioned in my last newsletter, we were getting ready to do our Annual Reunion and Brick Laying at the Vietnam Memorial in Angel Fire, NM.  This event happened over Labor Day Weekend a couple of weeks ago, and it was a success again. We laid a little over 500 memorial bricks on the grounds around those walkways. RFTW adopted this tradition over this weekend in 2008, and we have been doing it ever since.

For our new people and FNGs, we will also be stopping in Eagle Nest / Angel Fire, NM in May 2025, as this is also one of our official overnight stops.  At this stop when we arrive, we will lay one memorial brick at the memorial  as part of our arrival ceremony.  Memorial bricks can be purchased for any veteran living or deceased and from any era.

There are several individuals that deserve extra special recognition in helping make this a success.

Thank you to: Patti Finley, Kenny Keelin, Kathryn Ewing, Kevin Riley, Blanca Alas-Riley, Harry Steelman, Mike McDole, Coreen Wood, John Grimes,  Mike Sekiya, Eric Ammann, and Sonia Amman. You all went above and beyond. Thank you.

I noticed after I got home that Sonia Ammann did a very nice write-up on her personal Facebook page, and took some wonderful pictures. You can see that below.

Sonia, and her husband, Eric, are our Central Route Ambassador leads.  They lead a team of seasoned RFTW  riders that meet and greet our supporters that line overpasses and wave to us, as well as do community outreach to say THANK YOU to those that support us along our Mission across the US from Ontario, CA to Washington, DC, and the Vietnam Memorial.

Registration for our 35th Annual run is now open.  We open registration every September 11th in remembrance of that fateful day.  Please register early!  It helps us tremendously to plan for logistics, meals, number of platoons, etc.

I do have an open need for a special position that we did not have last year.  I am looking for a VIDEOGRAPHER.  If you have experience in making quality videos and cinematography,  please shoot me an email or call me.  My contact info is on the Central Route Contact page.

In the next 30-days I will be holding a leadership zoom meeting with our state coordinators, and another for our Central Route leadership platoon, team and crew leads. Be on the look our for those meeting invites. Before that time, please start thinking about what you are going to need in order to make RFTW 2025 a success.

As you may have seen or heard, Ted Kapner and Taisha Harmon have started the new RFTW podcast, which you can view on Youtube, or listen to on Spotify and Apple Podcasts among other platforms.  Take a listen… its pretty great!

That’s about all I have for now. See you next month.

Honor and Remember Them All,

Kirk “Pretty Boy” Olson
RFTW Central Route Coordinator – 2025
Asst. Route Coordinator – 2024
Road Guard Captain – 2023
Asst. Road Guard Captain – 2019
BoD of Directors – 2016-2019
Road Guard 2010-2018
FNG 2009

If you have not seen from previous newsletters by me or the other Route Coordinators from Southern, Midway, and Sandbox, RFTW is moving to GMRS for our on-road communications. This is not as big of a transition for us on Central Route this year in 2025, since we piloted the GMRS radios in 2024, and they worked very well.  My advice to you all is to get the radio now, and learn how to use, pair, and connect them to your helmet speakers or ear drums.  Also, help our friends on Southern, Midway, and Sandbox get theirs set-up and paired. Personally, I use a Sena 50S paired to the radio, and I paired the radio as PHONE 2, to the radio. See Sena directions, on how to do this.

**See this post on Where and What to Buy, and all things GMRS for RFTW.**

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Central Route August 2024 Newsletter

Happy August Run for the Wall Riders and Greetings from the Central Route!
Immediate things that are happening this month that you need to be aware of are the Angel Fire / Eagle Nest, New Mexico Reunion and Brick laying.
This reunion will take place Friday, August 30 – Sunday, Sept 1, 2024.

We could use strong backs on Thursday, Aug 29 at 1PM at the Memorial to lay out the base coat of sand for the bricks and some more help Friday to sort the bricks in order and load them on a trailer.

If you have not done so, time is running short to register, and please do so here.  It is imperative you do this in a timely manner, so the people preparing our food have an accurate count.

Go here to register for the reunion: https://forms.gle/txe74T5fRRAzCC9EA
** We would like all people registered no later than August 19, 2024.

Here is a tentative schedule for the reunion:

Reunion: Friday, August 30th Sunday, September 1st with Taco Bar on Friday night, and DINNER on Saturday, August 31st, 2024
Dinner Address: 74 N Tomboy Dr, Eagle Nest, NM

Thursday and Friday 29 August & 30 August
Preparation of grounds and Bricks. Location-Memorial
1:00 PM Thursday-Need some volunteers to shovel and rake the base layer of sand.
9:00 AM Friday– General Area Preparations and Sorting of Bricks

Friday Evening, 30 August
5:30 PM Memorial Service for Don “Bullet” Pierce and Frank “Friendless” Silva at outdoor Pavilion behind Senior Center by Arnie Swift & Kevin Riley
6:00 PM Reception & Dinner at Laguna Vista Saloon

Saturday, 31 August
All times are approximate and subject to change. 

7:00 AM Pre-Program Activity & Set Up (Breakfast Sandwiches/Coffee Provided)
9:00 AM
Opening Ceremony. Followed by Brick laying of Westphal Foundation Bricks.
9:30 AM Medal of Honor Brick Laying.
3:00 PM (Approx.) End of Workday – After last brick is laid the workday will conclude. Volunteers to help clean up and put away equipment will be needed and appreciated.

5:45 PM Meet at outdoor Pavilion behind Senior Center for a brief Ceremony (Pledge of Allegiance, Prayer, Announcements) (50 N Tom Boy Dr, Eagle Nest, NM 87718).

6:00 PM Dinner and Rider’s Forum (Senior Center- 50 N Tom Boy Drive) (Dinner cost is $35.00 per pre-registered person-Includes Reunion Patch). Any registrations received after August 18th will  be $45 per person (if the caterer can accommodate the addition).

Sunday, 1 September
8:00 AM
Church Services at Angel Fire Memorial Chapel (by Kevin Riley)

There is another reunion opportunity on Sept 27-29, 2024 in Kerrville, TX.  This reunion is for all RFTW and is hosted by our Southern Route brothers and sisters.

If you have not seen from previous newsletters by me or the other Route Coordinators from Southern, Midway, and Sandbox, RFTW is moving to GMRS for our on-road communications. This is not as big of a transition for us on Central Route this year in 2025, since we piloted the GMRS radios in 2024, and they worked very well.  My advice to you all is to get the radio now, and learn how to use, pair, and connect them to your helmet speakers or ear drums.  Also, help our friends on Southern, Midway, and Sandbox get theirs set-up and paired. Personally, I use a Sena 50S paired to the radio, and I paired the radio as PHONE 2, to the radio. See Sena directions, on how to do this.

**See this post on Where and What to Buy, and all things GMRS for RFTW.**

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 it.

Volunteer forms have been coming in for 2025. I send them to the appropriate crew and team leaders when I get them.  That being said, if you are interested in a volunteer position on Central Route, it’s also OK to reach out to that particular team or crew lead, in addition to sending in a form. Platoon Leaders pick their own APL’s and Tail Gunners (with RC approval). Road Guards, Staging, Fuel, Ambassadors, Outreach, Medical, and Chaplain volunteers are brought on by those team leads, and again approved by the RC. Don’t be discouraged if a team is full, there is a lot of time between now and May. Things always change. Central Route crews & teams are now just starting to be put together for 2025.

I can tell you as of now, I have openings for a Raffle Rouser Assistant, and a Videographer.  Staging is also going to need a few more bodies, as of now, as well.

That’s about it for now.  See you in Angel Fire and Eagle Nest, New Mexico in a couple of weeks.

Honor and Remember Them All,

Kirk “Pretty Boy” Olson
RFTW Central Route Coordinator – 2025
Asst. Route Coordinator – 2024
Road Guard Captain – 2023
Asst. Road Guard Captain – 2019
BoD of Directors – 2016-2019
Road Guard 2010-2018
FNG 2009

Posted on 1 Comment

2025 Radio Comms – Joint Statement from All Four Route Coordinators

Some of you may or may not know that in May 2024 the Central Route piloted and tested a new communications system for on-road communications while underway during our Mission from Ontario, CA to Washington, DC. GMRS Radios were used, and a GMRS repeater was also tested. This technology has much further range than CB, and with clearer reception and transmission.

CB radio service was originally established in 1949 and their usefulness and heyday of the 1970s has been outlived. A new replacement was needed for the unique communication requirements of RFTW. Motorcycle manufacturers have been discontinuing installing or offering CBs, or if they do, they are very expensive. And third-party motorcycle CB radio manufacturers, like J&M have also stopped making and supporting them.

The purpose of the test was to see how well it worked for RFTW. The results of the test in May 2024 was positive and exceeded expectations in most cases. Communications were clear with no relays needed to pass messages and the comms range was significantly extended with no outside interference.

At the July 20, 2024 BoD meeting, the BoD changed the SOP to allow GMRS as an option, and then left it up to each Route Coordinator’s sole discretion and decision to use CB or the newer GMRS Comms for the Run in 2025 for his respective route.

On July 29, 2024 all of the 2025 Route Coordinators (Central, Southern, Midway, and Sandbox) met in a separate RC only meeting without the Executive BoD.  ALL FOUR Route Coordinators are in lockstep, and unanimously decided that GMRS Radio Communications is the way to go and decided that all routes will use GMRS in 2025 as the primary mode of on-road communications for RFTW.

This means that ALL PACK Leadership WILL BE REQUIRED to have and use a GMRS Radio in 2025, i.e. All Platoon Leaders, APL’s, Tail Gunners, Road Guards, Chaplains, Medics, and Chase will need a GMRS Radio. Pack riders and FNGs are also certainly allowed to get a radio and listen.

Regarding outrider and forward crews and teams such as Fuel, Staging, Ambassadors, and Outreach, it is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED that you start to use and get on the GMRS bandwagon as you will be able to hear the pack miles before they get to your location.

There are numerous off-the-shelf radios available that can be made Bluetooth capable if you have a Bluetooth helmet headset, like a Sena or a Cardo. If you do not use a Bluetooth helmet set-up, there are some wired solutions available, as well.

Option 1: (This option is a HIGH recommendation. Bluetooth Capable)
The radio is available at the BTECH website, and at Amazon

BTECH GMRS Pro Radio: https://baofengtech.com/product/gmrs-pro/ref/gmrs/
Get the wireless PTT Button, and maybe a spare.
https://baofengtech.com/product/bs-ptt/ref/gmrs/

Use Coupon Code: RFTW
You will get both the Radio and Wireless PTT button for $152.44.
Must Add Both items, GMRS Pro radio, and wireless PTT button to BTECH online cart.
Deal Available at the the BTECH Website, not Amazon and not an Amazon Cart.

This is an optional adapter cable for K-1 type accessories:
https://baofengtech.com/product/gmrs-pro-k1-adaptor/ref/gmrs/?campaign=OptionalAdapter

To get “More Range” out of this handheld, it’s all about the ***antenna quality.*** Consider a higher quality antenna, or even an external antenna.

https://baofengtech.com/product/nagoya-na-701g/ref/gmrs/?campaign=5.5inchAntenna
https://baofengtech.com/product/nagoya-na-771g/ref/gmrs/?campaign=15inchAntenna
https://baofengtech.com/product/nagoya-ut-72g/ref/gmrs/?campaign=mountedantenna

Other Great GMRS Antennas – Here

Midland MXTA26 Antenna – need an adapter, NMO mount and coax with this option. This antenna has the most GAIN.

Option 2: (Also a High Recommendation, but does take skill to install. Bluetooth)
Vero VGC VR-N7500 High Power 50W/40W Transceiver. This a PERMANENT MOUNT Bluetooth unit. It transmits at up to 40W on UHF (GMRS) frequencies. 5X the power of the above handheld.

Get the Bluetooth button for this radio – Here

This unit requires an EXTERNAL Antenna, like the Midland MXTA26 Antenna. I like this antenna for a permanent NMO Mount, (or a handheld radio with an Adapter).

An NMO Mount, and Coax are REQUIRED.

Kirk Olson – Central Route RC is running this set-up on his BMW K1600GT. The radio is Bluetoothed directly to a Sena 50S helmet set-up. The included mic shown in picture is not used.
(See a Picture of the set-up here)

** Currently, the VR-N7500 DOES NOT Bluetooth Connect to a Harley Branded Sena. It does connect to a regular, non-Harley Branded Sena. It must be something to do with the HD Firmware.

** There is a rumor that BTECH is coming out with their version of this radio in the very near future.

Option 3: (Non-Bluetooth GMRS Radios, work and are approx $50 or less)
Any GMRS Radio like, but not limited to, these:
TID Radio H8 GMRS Radio: https://amzn.to/47klXzu
https://amzn.to/3tJSpxw **Recommended (Value Pack)
Video on the TID Radio H8: https://youtu.be/8HXSlHT84yQ
Baofeng UV-5RTP: https://amzn.to/3tHoUMI
*These radios ARE NOT Bluetooth capable to a headset from the manufacturer, so would best be used with a wired set-up, and an earpiece or earbud (not ideal).

A company called Rugged Radios are the BEST wired harnesses for those that do not have or want a Bluetooth helmet set-up, and they also offer Bluetooth for any radio, and are built for motorcycling.

Wired & External Bluetooth harnesses options from Rugged Radios. These harnesses work with almost any GMRS handheld radio.
https://www.ruggedradios.com/collections/motorcycle-two-way-radio-helmet-communication-kits

Option 4:
If you are an Amateur Radio Operator (HAM), you may be interested in the Anytone ATD878UVII Plus. This is a HAM radio, and can be unlocked for GMRS use, and has Bluetooth built-in that will pair to a Bluetooth helmet set-up. This option does require very good to advanced computer skills to program the radio. The radio is also not IP67 (water proof), but the bluetooth piece is great.

Option 5:
Any Four-wheel vehicle can use a GMRS handheld or any Mobile Car/Truck Mounted GMRS radio.

Manufacturers of these are: Midland, Wouxun, to name a few.

These also require:
An EXTERNAL Antenna, like the Midland MXTA26 Antenna
An NMO Mount, and Coax are REQUIRED.

The bottom line is, we are not going to tell you which brand to get.  You just need a radio to get GMRS frequencies into your helmet and your ears.  The above are options that work well, and there are and will be others.

Licensing:
Lastly, listening to a GMRS radio does not require a license from the FCC.
Transmitting on a GMRS frequency currently does technically require a license from the FCC and is easy to get, and is $35 for 10-years.
One license can be used per family.

Video on How-to get a GMRS license:
https://youtu.be/xOuOIB1KCQ4?t=73
Click here to establish your FCC FRN Number: https://apps.fcc.gov/cores/userLogin.do
Click here for the FCC Universal Licensing System: https://www.fcc.gov/wireless/universal-licensing-system

Thank you.
See you in May 2025

Kirk Olson – Central Route Coordinator
Eric Fort – Midway Route Coordinator
Ken Ley – Southern Route Coordinator
William Brehler – Sandbox Route Coordinator

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Central Route Coordinator July 2024 Newsletter

Riders and supporters, I’d like to officially WELCOME YOU to the beginning stages of the 35th Annual Run for the Wall, which will commence on May 14, 2025.  I’d like to thank the RFTW BoD, and my predecessor Nick Hentges for the honor of being selected and appointed Route Coordinator for Central Route 2025.

I officially would like to welcome all of you to our 2025 Run and the Central Route.  Especially, I’d like to welcome all newcomers, riders, and FNG’s.  All are welcome to ride with us, whether you are a Veteran (from ANY era), Active Duty, or non-veteran supporter.  Some people think you need to be a veteran or have a military background to ride with us.  That is not the case. We welcome all people and riders from all walks of life.  Additionally, there are no Red or Blue teams on this ride.  We are one team and one family. This is a Mission, and we do this 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.  We honor and Ride for Those Who Can’t. If you ride, you are Welcome ride with on this incredible journey.

Not only will May 2025 be the 35th Annual Run, it also coincides with the 50th Anniversary of the official end to the Vietnam War, when the South Vietnamese capital city of Saigon fell on April 30, 1975 (link).  The signing of the Paris Peace Accords on January 27, 1973 did not hold.

Therefore, RFTW is declaring 2025, “The Year of the Vietnam Vet”, which is truly allowing us to honor our roots and our Vietnam Vets like never before.  There will be many special events and things focusing on this theme that will be revealed in the months to come.  Remember, many of our veterans still need their “Welcome Home”, so let’s make sure we reach as many of them as we can.

Focusing on “The Year of the Vietnam Vet” is also allowing us to say THANK YOU to those that came before us, so we can build upon and continue the legacy that James “Gunny” Gregory (our Founder) started in 1989 with the FIRST Run. It is extremely important that we honor our roots, history, and the foundation of RFTW, so we ensure the continuation of RFTW for the next 35-years and beyond.  We would not be here today, do what we do, look forward to every May, and most importantly “Ride for Those That Can’t”, if it were not for the Vietnam Vets that came before us.  They laid the foundation for what RFTW is today and what we will become, as we expand and grow to reach the NEXT GENERATION of vets, riders, and supporters.

For those that may not know me, I am not a Vietnam Era Veteran. I was 7-years-old in April 1975, when Saigon fell.  I went into the Navy in the summer of 1987 after graduating from high school. My father, Harlan Olson, is a Vietnam Veteran, and I do RFTW to honor all veterans from all wars and service, but especially him.  Dad was also the Central Route Coordinator in 2018 for the 30th Annual RFTW, so I am proud to be following in his shoes and footsteps.  To my knowledge, we are the first pair of father-son RFTW RC’s, and I certainly hope not the last.  My FNG year was 2009, and I have done almost every official RFTW since then.  I only missed the 2022 Run due to a broken shoulder.  Last year I served as the Assistant Route Coordinator.  I have also served as Road Guard Captain, Assistant Road Guard Captain, and as a Road Guard over the years.  I also served on the BoD as the Public Relations Director from 2016-2019.

You all may be wondering who the 2025 Assistant Route Coordinator is going to be… It is my privilege to announce that Jim McDonough has accepted the position as my Assistant (ARC) for the 2025 Central Route RFTW.  Jim was commissioned as an Ensign in 1983 and became a Naval Flight Officer in EA6-B Prowlers.  He left Active Duty in 1994, and transferred to the Naval Reserve, where he ultimately retired in 2014 as a Navy Captain (O-6).  Jim also is a retired Sergeant of the Kitsep County Sheriff’s Office in Port Orchard, WA. Jim has served both RFTW as a Platoon Leader, Asst Platoon Leader, and Quartermaster. I am truly thrilled and humbled to have him as my ARC in 2025.  Please join me in welcoming and congratulating him.

Believe it or not, planning for May 2025 and the 35th Run is already starting. All of the new RC’s will be meeting with the RFTW BoD in about a week and a half to officially kick things off.

Our very next order of business that is coming up immediately is the RFTW Angel Fire Reunion and workdayThis reunion will take place Friday, August 30 – Sunday, Sept 1, 2024.  Most people come in some time on Friday and leave on Sunday morning.  If you want to come a day early on Thursday, or stay later than Sunday, that is up to you.  There is great riding in the area.  I will re-iterate that this reunion is for anyone from any of our Four Routes.  Central Route does stop in Angel Fire as an official stop on our itinerary in May, but what makes this reunion special is that we lay memorial bricks along the walkways of the memorial. RFTW has adopted the memorial for many, many years.  Each brick has the name and service dates of any serviceman or servicewoman. Living or deceased. Each brick is read aloud and marched to its place on the memorial grounds by an RFTW rider.  The memorial provides our lunch on Saturday, Aug 31.  Part of your registration and sign-up fee will include dinner on Friday night and Saturday night.  You are responsible for  making your own lodging reservations in Eagle Nest, NM or Angel Fire, NM.

Go here to register for the reunion: https://forms.gle/txe74T5fRRAzCC9EA

  • Please register. This helps us prepare for number of people and meals for the reunion.

There will be more to come in the coming months, leading up to our departure in May 2025.

In my 16-years of being involved with RFTW, I am sure I’ve messed up a time or two.  I want you all to know that I’m humbled and honored to be your Route Coordinator for our 35th Annual Run For The Wall.  I’ll  work hard and do my best to make it meaningful to you all.  Let’s make it count, and one to remember.

Until They All Come Home,
Kirk “Pretty Boy” Olson
Route Coordinator – Central Route 2025

Kirk Olson carrying his Father's Memorial Brick for placement at the Angel Fire Reunion, August 30, 2014.
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2024 Central Route Coordinator Newsletter #1 June 2024

Aloha RFTW O’Hana,

I hope everyone has either made it home safely or is safely on their way.

I would like to start this newsletter with a heartfelt MAHALO to all that supported us in our Journey across the US to Washington DC. We could not complete our MISSION without the support received from numerous communities, Companies, and Individuals across the Country.

I would also like to thank all of our Volunteers and Leadership on the Central Route. The teams performed superbly this year and we had a great Run (Aside from a little bit of Hail in KS). I give credit for our successes to these amazing people and accept any and all shortfalls or failures as MINE alone.

I also want to acknowledge our RIDERS! You all did a fantastic job under some adverse conditions and CONTINUED THE MISSION. I know some had to turn back due to Mechanical issues or other reasons and I hope to see you ALL back next year. Please spread the word and bring new people to the RUN next year.

I am adding a small bit of detail about the donations we made this year (Thanks to all of you!).

We donated approximately $65,000.00 (+/-) to the following organizations along our Route. RED Text denotes Veterans Organizations.

Hulet Elementary School
Operation Transition Outside the Wire
https://operationtotw.org/ 
American Legion, Holbrook AZ
Veterans Helping Veterans, Gallup NM
National Veterans Wellness and Healing Center
https://veteranswellnessandhealing.org/about-us/
Village of Eagle Nest NM
Missouri National Veterans Memorial, Perryville MO
https://mnvmfund.org/
Arlington Assembly of God (this Church Allows our riders to camp and feeds them-They need a new Walk in Refrigerator/Freezer)
Elks #2644 Veterans Committee
Anstead Elementary
Valley PK-12 School
Rainelle Elementary
David Westfall Foundation
https://www.vietnamveteransmemorial.org/
Fort Riley BOSS
https://riley.armymwr.com/programs/boss
Willing Warriors Foundation
https://www.willingwarriors.org/
Sons and Daughters In Touch
https://sdit.org/
Santo Domingo School, in NM
Cochiti Elementary School in NM

These Donations not only help organizations along our Route, but they also help spread the word about us and our MISSION as well as teach the next generation of Patriots what has been sacrificed for their freedoms and the freedoms of their family and friends.

These donations are from our Riders and many supporters that assist us all year, every year.

Once I have a bit more time, my final Newsletter will list some of the many donors (Some do not wish to be identified).

Many have asked me this year “How can I get more involved”.  As a non-FNG, you are eligible to apply for a leadership position. This includes platoon leadership, fuel and staging teams, chase vehicle team and other leadership support positions. So, if you think you might be interested, consider submitting a volunteer request form for next year. SIGN UP HERE!

Another important thing to note: AFTER ACTION REPORTS. Please go to the link and fill out the form. This helps us understand what, in the individual’s opinion, worked well and what did not. It also helps us identify potential problems and address them for next year. I have read EVERY ONE of the ones that are streaming in and have started a spreadsheet to track suggestions, criticisms and things that people identified as good things. The RC for next year will receive all of these and make decisions based on this input. If you don’t make us aware of issues, we cannot work to correct them. Keep in mind that we do value any and all input, all reports will be read and considered, but not all suggestions will be implemented. We especially appreciate suggestions on how to make things better rather than just criticism of things that riders did not like or agree with.

CLICK HERE TO SUBMIT

 

In Closing, I have a few questions?
1. HOW FAR DID WE GO?
2. HOW MANY ROUTES DO WE HAVE?
3. HOW MANY MISSIONS DO WE HAVE?
5. WHY DO WE RIDE?
6. IS IT MAY YET?

MUCH ALOHA AND MANY MAHALOS TO MY OHANA
Nick “Richboy” Hentges
RFTW Central Route Coordinator 2024

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2024 Central Route Coordinator Newsletter IT IS MAY!

Aloha RFTW O’Hana,
May is HERE. This will be my last newsletter before the Run starts in 2 weeks. 

Reposting a few things here as well as a bit of new information. 

Itinerary
The Itinerary is posted online. READ IT Every Morning and Every Night and at Every Stop.  DO NOT ask questions of anybody where the answer is in the Itinerary (do not ask, for example, when are we leaving? Or what is our next stop?)!!

IF YOU DOWNLOADED THE ITINERARY MORE THAN A WEEK AGO, DOWNLOAD IT AGAIN. MAKE SURE YOU HIT THE “REFRESH” BUTTON ON THE WEBSITE AND GET THE LATEST VERSION. (2024-Itinerary-CR-Rev-3-FINAL).

Hotel Problems
The Best Western/Microtel hotel in Limon has informed us that they will not complete construction work before our arrival, so if you planned on staying there, you need to find another hotel. There are plenty of rooms left at other hotels in Limon.

Hotel Parking
REMINDER. Parking under the Portico (Awning) outside of the Hotels is not allowed except when you are unloading your gear. Do not ask the Hotel folks if it is OK and put them in an awkward Position (many don’t want to say no to us!). If you are registered for the Run and park under the Portico, I will ask the local PD to call a tow truck and have your bike or car ticketed and towed. 

Personal note…… Years ago in Hurricane WV, I went down to my bike to grab something at about midnight and the Portico was packed with motorcycles and the Night Manager was frantic, because the Fire department had stopped by and told him he needed to clear the fire lane. He could not locate all the owners of the bikes (we found a few) and the hotel got a $1500 fine. He lost his job because of us (22 or so years old, married with a newborn baby) and we almost lost major support from the local community because some riders didn’t want their bike to be out in the rain! This is unacceptable and will not be tolerated. 

PRE-PAID FUEL
We will be doing Pre-Paid fuel. CASH ONLY. In Ontario, Look for a Leadership Support Team Member at the Elks to get your sticker ($90 for ATW/ Prorated if you are only going part way). There is no Option to pay online or use a credit card or check.

Questions and inquiries
Both Kirk and I have been getting a ton of inquiries that are better directed to other leadership within the Route. Answering these inquiries take a LOT of time each day that we could better use in planning and Coordinating the overall Run. Examples would be questions about Platoon assignments, Missing Man, Fuel, Staging, etc.
Please go to the online contact list on the website under the Central Route Hub and find the contact that can directly answer your questions. I.E. Platoon assignments=Platoon Coordinator, Missing Man=Missing Man Coordinator, GMRS Communications= etc.

Important Links
For any questions you may have, check out our FAQs first.  Then your next level of inquiry can be
directed to your platoon leadership or team leaders of the team you have a question about. We’ve got a strong cadre of leadership in the Pack Platoons and they are a great source of information, as is our FNG Liaison, Bernadette “Flat Tire” Staples, for our first-timers. All contact information is available in the Central Route Hub on the RFTW website.  Additionally, familiarize yourself with our Rider Code of Conduct.

Arlington Escort
We are still working out the total number of Motorcycles we can send into Arlington and who will get to go. I know everyone is excited about this opportunity, but please be patient and wait until we have it sorted and announce the details (Again, emails and Messages to myself or the ARC are a distraction that we cannot spare the time for right now as we finalize details for the Run). 

Ontario Schedule (CR Specific)
Communications (GMRS) assistance at the Holiday Inn from 1500 (3PM) until 1630 (4:30 PM) Monday (Conference Room) Point of Contact Harlan Olson (Leadership Support Communications on the contact list). We are looking for a few Radio Savvy Helpers to Volunteer and help folks set their radio and headset up (Connect Radio to Headset/Load correct frequencies, help conduct “radio checks”, etc.). Please reach out to Harlan if you can assist with this.

  1. Central Route Team Leaders and Platoon Leadership Meeting at the Holiday Inn Conference room. 1530 (3:30 PM)
  2. Riverside National Cemetery Ride. Tuesday. Stage at 0700 and depart at 0800. Need to be checked in with the registration team prior to the RNC Run. (MONDAY)
  3. Communications testing at Lot “D” (West end) Tuesday at 1400 (2PM) to test GMRS Radio set ups
  4. Central Route Leadership Meeting in Lot “D” Tuesday (West end) at 1500 (3PM) (MANDATORY FOR ALL CR LEADERSHIP/TEAMS)
  5. Central Route FNG Meeting in Lot “D” Tuesday (West End) at 1545 3:45 PM) 
  6. Central Route ALL HANDS MANDATORY Meeting in Lot “D” Tuesday (West end) at 1630 (4:30 PM) followed by team and Platoon Meetings 
  7. There are numerous other meetings and events in Ontario. Please go to the Hub and check out the Ontario Pre Run Schedule for more information.

This year we will have a Shuttle Bus running continuous loops between the Ontario Convention Center, the Holiday Inn Ontario Airport Host Hotel, and the Elks Lodge. The shuttle will run from noon-8 pm on Sunday, May 12th; and from 7 am through 9 pm on Monday, May 13th and Tuesday, May 14th.

ALOHA FRIDAY
Like we did at the Workday/Reunion in Angel Fire, we will have an Aloha Friday Shirt contest in Eagle Nest at Dinner. Best Aloha Shirt wins a prize1 Make sure they are R.E.D. though!

Breakouts and Outreach Missions
There will be opportunities to ride with the Outreach and Ambassador teams on Breakouts and other missions. Please ask your platoon leadership about opportunities and volunteer to go on these missions. They are very rewarding and give a great picture of the overall mission outside of the day-to-day riding.

I would like to reiterate something from my last newsletter that I feel is extremely important. During the last year I have been focusing on planning the Central Route with much support from many great people. In the last few weeks, it has dawned upon me that I have been focusing so hard on the planning and worrying about last minute details/glitches, etc., that I was not thinking about the MISSION. Please remember our Mission and try to keep that first and foremost in your mind.

At each stop along our way you will see Tom “Bones” Pogue on his knees next to his motorcycle writing the name and details about the Person we are riding for on that leg. Please go and read the name on your way back to your bike after fuel/restroom/lunch, etc. and remember that name during that leg (and after). That is a large portion of why we ride. When you are tired or hot or wet or cold or mad about something during the Run, take a second and say their name. 

In closing, please get yourself and your Bike ready for the MISSION. Be safe traveling to your starting point and begin hydrating NOW. Don’t forget your paperwork so you can check in and remember your meds. Make sure your bike is ready for the trip to, during and after the Run. Don’t forget to Bring cash for your prepaid fuel stickers ($90 for ATW/What a great deal!). 

 

MUCH ALOHA TO MY ‘OHANA
Nick “Richboy” Hentges
RFTW Central Route Coordinator 2024

Check out the Central Route Facebook Group.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1422773938330162

RFTW Missing man formation
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2024 Central Route Coordinator April Newsletter Vol 2

Aloha Central Route Family

Please excuse me if this newsletter seems to jump around a lot. I had a lot of information I wanted to get out and it may seem a bit disjointed, but please read the whole thing!

Pre-Run Preparation
Make sure you pack enough prescription Meds to get all the way back home. Get your Bike Ready. NO BALD TIRES!! Safety Chains are required for any Trailers. Time is running out to get your bikes in tip top shape! Get them serviced, get them inspected, and make sure your state registration, Motorcycle endorsement and insurance are all up to date and valid through the end of May 2024. If you haven’t already done so, pack up your bike with everything you are taking and get out on the highway or interstate on a test ride. Make sure you’re familiar with how your bike is going to handle with the added gear. Make sure you can safely control your bike, stop, start, and tight turns while loaded! Be sure that everything is safely secured and will not become a hazard to other riders.

As you prepare your bikes or other modes of transportation, you also need to prepare yourselves, mind, and body too! This is NOT a weekend ride. Be sure you have your Emergency Information Form filled out – completely! It will be checked daily by your Team Leaders and/or Platoon Leaders. It is MANDATORY and you cannot ride without it. If you take medication, be sure that you listed it on your EIF and that you have enough of your prescribed medications with you for your entire trip.

It is time for everyone to start hydrating! It is much easier to hydrate than it is to re-hydrate! Generally, it is recommended to drink a liter of water a day to stay hydrated. However, this can depend on your age, body, underlying medical conditions, and what physical exercise you are doing on that day. Being extremely thirsty, dry mouth, fast breathing, fast heart rate, and low blood pressure are all significant signs of dehydration, however, what many of us will likely feel first is fatigue – both mentally and physically! Be aware and stay HYDRATED!

West Virginia Motorcycle Service

In Rainelle, WV:    J T Taylor is a Gold Star Father that has a motorcycle repair business on 6th Ave:  tires, brakes, repairs, etc.  He will be at the Veterans Memorial with numerous other WV Gold Star families and then will be available to work on any type of motorcycle after the Outreach ceremony.
His oldest son Jeffrey was a member of Seal Team 10 (“Lone Survivor” movie) – KIA in Afghanistan. His middle son Josh was severely injured by an IED.
His youngest son suffered a broken back on an aircraft carrier and now has TBI from an auto accident.

 

All Vietnam Era Vets on the Central Route:

If you are not familiar with them, the USA Vietnam War Commemoration is a DOD and Congressionally authorized national 50th anniversary commemoration.  The primary objective is to thank and honor Vietnam veterans and their families for their service and sacrifice.

The Commemoration is providing Vietnam Veteran Lapel Pins to military veterans who served during the Vietnam Era (11/1/1955 – 5/15/1975).  For the purpose of the pin, there is no distinction between veterans who served in-country, in-theater, or who were stationed elsewhere during the Vietnam War period.

The pins can only be administered by Commemorative partners, and they are typically administered by attending a “Dignified Presentation”.   You can read more about this here:  https://www.vietnamwar50th.com/about/vietnam_veteran_lapel_pin/
(You can also opt to have the pin mailed to you.  Please see their web site for details)

The exciting news for Vietnam era vets on the Central route is that we have worked over the winter with Sons and Daughters in Touch (www.sdit.org) and the Willing Warriors Foundation ( www.willingwarriors.org) (they are Commemorative Partners) to administer the lapel pins to any Vietnam Era Vets at our Day 10 lunch stop in Marshall, VA.

The pinning ceremony will be quick – we are on a lunch stop, and have to keep on schedule to get to the host hotel.  The only requirement is that Ed Wehner has your name before Sunday, May 19th (by the time we arrive at Junction City).  Please email Ed at  ed.wehner@rftw.us if you are interested in receiving the pin, or have any questions about this.

 

Order of Precedence at Fuel Stops/Lunch
#1 Road Guards and other advance teams (Fuel, Staging, Ambassadors, Outreach)
#2 Chaplains and Medics
#3 Other Leadership
#4 All Others

We are looking for a Marine to ride missing Man formation for Day one from Ontario to Needles. Any Volunteers should reach out to the Missing Man Coordinator (Listed on the website under contacts. These legs will be ridden in honor of Brian Alvarado, Sgt USMC.  Brian served 2 tours in Iraq and sadly developed cancer from the “burn pits” and he passed a couple of months ago.
Despite his condition, he was still volunteering for whatever Veteran’s causes needed help.  His wife and daughter are scheduled to be at the start, and I know it would mean a lot to them if he could be Escorted by a fellow Marine.

Pre-Paid Fuel

To be totally clear on this. PRE-PAID FUEL STICKERS WILL COVER THE ACTUAL ANTICIPATED COST OF THE NON-DONATED FUEL STOPS DURING THE DAY ON THE RUN. THIS TOTAL COST (ONCE DETERMINED) IS ONLY FOR THE NON-DONATED STOPS. WE DO NOT CHARGE FOR STOPS THAT ARE BEING GENEROUSLY DONATED.

Stickers will be available from our leadership support team in Ontario and each morning (During the hour prior to the scheduled Mandatory Meeting).

Riders must fill their motorcycles up each evening on their own before arriving at staging in the morning (Spot checks will be happening). We do have 3 very generous donors that will be donating fuel in the evening. Details will be passed in the Morning meetings about how to take advantage of the generous offers to fill our gas tanks up at night. Some Bullet Points below from the Town Hall Meeting

  • COVERS THE COST OF ALL NON-DONATED FUEL STOPS DURING THE DAY
  • ALL THE WAY COST WILL BE $90.00
  • WE WILL HAVE PRORATED AMOUNTS FOR THOSE NOT GOING ALL THE WAY . PAYMENT FOR THE FUEL STICKERS WILL BE CASH ONLY.
  • SPEEDS UP THE PROCESS BY ABOUT 75%
  • NON-PRE-PAID WILL PAY CASH AT THE PUMP (NO CHANGE GIVEN) ROUNDED UP TO $5.00 (EX. PUMP $8.25-PAY $10.00/PUMP $10.05-PAY $15.00.) NO $1.00 BILLS WILL BE ACCEPTED AT THE PUMPS/NO EXCEPTIONS.
  • THIS PROCESS GIVES EVERYONE APPROXIMATELY 10-15 EXTRA MINUTES AT FUEL STOPS
  • ANY EXCESS $ GOES TO FUEL THE CHASE TRUCKS AND HYDRATION TRUCK. ANY $ LEFT AFTER THAT WILL GO TO A VETERAN CHARITY TO BE DETERMINED
  • ALL RIDERS MUST FUEL COMPLETELY THE NIGHT BEFORE AND SHOW UP WITH A FULL TANK OR YOU WILL BE TURNED AWAY TO GO FUEL AND POSSIBLY MISS BREAKFAST AND THE MORNING MEETING (CAN’T RIDE IN THE PACK IF YOU MISS THE MEETING). LEADERSHIP WILL BE SPOT CHECKING.

Ontario Schedule
The Ontario Schedule has been posted on the Route Hub. A brief list of meetings for the Central Route are below.

  1. Communications (GMRS) assistance at the Holiday Inn from 1500 (3PM) until 1630 (4:30 PM) Monday (Conference Room) Point of Contact Harlan Olson (Leadership Support Communications on the contact list). We are looking for a few Radio Savvy Helpers (especially those familiar with the BTech GMRS pro) to Volunteer and help folks set their radio and headset up (Connect Radio to Headset/Load correct frequencies, help conduct “radio checks”, etc.). Please reach out to Harlan if you can assist with this.
  2. Central Route Leadership Meeting at the Holiday Inn Meeting room Monday at 3:30 PM for All team leads and Platoon Leadership.
  3.  Riverside National Cemetery Ride on Tuesday AM. Stage at 0700 and depart at 0800. Need to be checked in with the registration team prior to the RNC Run. (MONDAY)
  4. Communications testing at Lot “D” (WEST end) Tuesday at 1400 (2PM) to test GMRS Radio set ups
  5. Central Route Leadership Meeting in Lot “D” (WEST end) Tuesday at 1500 (3PM) (MANDATORY FOR ALL CR LEADERSHIP/TEAMS (NOT JUST TEAM LEADS/ALL LEADERSHIP/VOLUNTEERS)
  6. Central Route FNG Meeting in Lot “D” (WEST End) Tuesday at 1545 (3:45 PM) (Leadership and FNGS)
  7. Central Route ALL HANDS MANDATORY Meeting in Lot “D” (WEST end) Tuesday at 1630 (4:30 PM) followed by team and Platoon Meetings

 

The Merchandise and Hydration Trailers will be available at the Host Hotel, Ontario Holiday Inn located at 2155 E. Convention Center Way, Ontario, CA 91764.
Check-in will be available at the Elks Lodge, 1150 W. 4th Street, Ontario, CA 91762. The Elks Lodge opened their doors to us and has welcomed RFTW with open arms. The Elks Lodge will have many volunteers assisting inside the building and in the parking lot. Please thank them for their generosity and be respectful. Disrespect of any kind will not be tolerated.

The Elks Lodge will also have Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner available for purchase on Monday and Tuesday (Taco Tuesday?). A Steak Dinner is also planned again with advanced tickets available on site.

Hydration will also be available at the Elks Lodge.

This year we will have a Shuttle Bus running continuous loops between the Ontario Convention Center, the Holiday Inn Ontario Airport Host Hotel, and the Elks Lodge. The shuttle will run from noon-8 pm on Sunday, May 12th; and from 7 am through 9 pm on Monday, May 13th and Tuesday, May 14th.

 

 

See the Message Below from the VFW in Ontario

My name is William Castellanos, I am the Quartermaster for the Ontario VFW Post 2085. I know that the Run For The Wall event is May 13th – May 15th and the starting point is in Ontario. I would like to invite all of you to our post to have somewhere to enjoy and prep before your ride begins. Please let me know if we can be of assistance. Our post phone number is 909-986-9066. My cell phone is 213-841-7634. Our post email is vfwpost2085@gmail.com

Respectfully,
William Castellanos
Sergeant – US Marine Corps Veteran
Veterans of Foreign Wars
Post Quartermaster 2085 Old Baldy
1341 East D Street
Ontario, CA 91764
Phone: 909-986-9066
Email:
vfwpost2085@gmail.com
Instagram: @vfwpost2085
FB:
www.facebook.com/ontariovfwpost

 

Fundraising Efforts

We will have a Table at the Elks near the Merchandise Trailer to showcase some of the Items we will be having a drawing for and we will be selling tickets for a Beautiful Afghan made By Daniel Slocum’s Sister. We will sell tickets for the Afghan to riders from ALL ROUTES and will continue to sell tickets during the Run. We will Draw the Winner on Day 10 (Lewisburg) in the morning and the winner will get the item in Arlington or it will be mailed to them after the Run. Proceeds from this drawing will be split amongst all 4 Routes (ONE MISSION FOUR ROUTES) based on participation.

Some Detail Below about this Afghan.
Size: 5′ 7″ x 8″ 3″
Colors: 5 unique colors
Stitches: 91.440
Stitch Type: Crochet
Backing: Sewn on cloth and border to help prevent fraying and preserve the Afghan through use.
Labor: ~700 from December 2023 – April 2024
Maker: Debbie Slocum Lockwood, Sheridan Oregon (huge Thanks to Debbie for all of the labor and love she put into this)

In closing I wanted to touch on something I feel is extremely important. During the last year I have been focusing on planning the Central Route with much support from many great people. In the last few weeks, it has dawned upon me that I have been focusing so hard on the planning and worrying about last minute details/glitches, etc., that I was not thinking about the MISSION. Please remember our Mission and try to keep that first and foremost in your mind.

At each stop along our way you will see Tom “Bones” Pogue on his knees next to his motorcycle writing the name and details about the Person we are riding for on that leg. Please go and read the name on your way back to your bike after fuel/restroom/lunch, etc. and remember that name during that leg (and after). That is a large portion of why we ride. When you are tired or hot or wet or cold or mad about something during the Run, take a second and say their name.

Be safe and I will see you very soon.

 

Is it May yet?

MUCH ALOHA TO MY ‘OHANA
Nick “Richboy” Hentges
RFTW Central Route Coordinator 2024

Check out the Central Route Facebook Group.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1422773938330162