Category: Central Route 2025 SitReps

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CR – May 24, 2025 – In Washington DC

May 24, 2025 – In Washington DC

It was a beautiful day.  Started at 53 and hit the mid 60s. 

First order of business of the day is to meet and get the picture of all the Run routes at the Lincoln Memorial.  It is still under construction so we have it by the Reflection Pond.  WOW !!  Way to go to everyone for making it to DC.

 

Then we walked to the Vietnam Wall.

Most of the riders are carrying bios (read in the morning meetings), cards, trinkets …. to be placed at the Wall.  All these items are collected and placed in storage

 
While in Angel Fire, you met Judy whose brother is MIA.
A bio and bracelet have been left in his honor.
We also found the 3 men Gunny talked about as we left Ontario.

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Say their names,  Tell their stories,  Never forget.

At the apex, all the route coordinators are present to place the plaque at the apex.

 

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It has been a very long journey to get here. 

The RFTW Plaque is placed at the apex of the Vietnam Wall.

MISSION COMPLETE!!

 

Gunny and Patio are here

 

Once you have completed the run, your FNG pin is placed upside down.  
Here Gunny does this for Anthony.

I have the honor to flip Valor’s. Thanks mom!

As the plaque was being placed, Kim was playing Amazing Grace.  Whose turn is it for the tissues?  Kim and her friend played several songs as people walked along the wall.  It was so surreal.

Thank you ladies, you really make the walk along that wall meaningful.

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Just some quick info on Kim, and how much she embraces the military and how much she is respected.

Pipe Major Kim Greeley – Storm Watch – born in Hawai’i, has been piping since she was 11 years old. Kim has studied and performed piping in Hawai’i, on the mainland, in Canada, and in the United Kingdom. Kim has performed for military retirement celebrations, military funerals, and repatriation ceremonies. She is the piper on call for repatriation services at the National Cemetery of the Pacific. She also piped for the 9/11, WWI and WWII worldwide remembrance events. Kim’s largest concert is the annual one for the Riders of  the Run For The Wall gathering at the Lincoln Memorial and Vietnam Wall in Washington, D.C. on Memorial Day weekend. Kim has coordinated her performances with airplane and helicopter flyovers, parachute drops, presentations by government and military dignitaries, and other bands. Kim, along with pipers in her band, played for the interment of Lauren F. Bruner, the last crew member who will ever be returned to the U.S.S. Arizona at Pearl Harbor – coordinating the performance on Ford Island with the military divers as they returned Mr. Bruner’s ashes to the battleship.

Thanks, Kim, for being part of our missions and making it so special

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Walking to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, we pass field after field of tombstones.
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Fun Fact:
Just before Memorial Day weekend, the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment (also known as The Old Guard) honors America’s fallen heroes by placing American flags at gravesites for service members buried at Arlington National Cemetery and the U.S. Soldiers’ and Airmen’s Home National Cemetery. This tradition, known as “Flags In,” has taken place annually since the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment was designated as the Army’s official ceremonial unit in 1948. Every available soldier in the Old Guard participates, along with members of other service branches. They place small American flags in front of more than 260,000 headstones and at the bottom of about 7,000 niche rows. Each flag is inserted into the ground, exactly one boot length from the headstone’s base.
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We get to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier as they are ready to do changing of the guards. 
Fun Fact:

The military guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is changed in an elaborate ceremony which happens every hour on the hour from October 1 through March 31, and every half hour from April 1 through September 30.

Twenty-four hours a day, soldiers from the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment, known as “The Old Guard,” stand watch over the Tomb. The Tomb Guards, also called Sentinels, are chosen for this prestigious and highly selective post only after rigorous training and a demanding series of examinations (see below). The Old Guard has held this distinguished duty since 1948.

The Tomb Guard marches exactly 21 steps down the black mat behind the Tomb, turns, faces east for 21 seconds, turns and faces north for 21 seconds, then takes 21 steps down the mat and repeats the process.  (The number 21 symbolizes the highest military honor that can be bestowed, the 21-gun salute.) Next, the Sentinel executes a sharp “shoulder-arms” movement to place the weapon on the shoulder closest to the visitors, signifying that he or she stands between the Tomb and any possible threat.

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Here are the representatives from RFTW to lay the wreath.

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Taps are played.

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Look at the day we got and the beautiful sky.

THE Vietnam Wall

Several years ago on this incredible journey, we had a speaker that said this, and it really stuck:


Teach all to honor those that protect our country.
Always be loyal to those serving.
And never leave anyone behind.
So therefore, the Run must never stop.

 

POW / MIA Poem

We need to remember them every day.

They went to fight in a place so far away,

They gave their all when their country sent out a call

Not ever knowing that their name would end up on the wall,

No matter how we honor them no matter what we do

We should always remember that they paid the highest price

For the red, white and blue.

So when you look up at the flag flying in the wind on a clear blue day

Remember it’s there because of the

POW and MIA

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I hope this blog has given you some idea of our mission. It is a grueling trip.   Long day, short night, 4;30 AM wake up calls…. This starts to wear on you.  Our trip was only 10 days.  Think of our troops in extreme hot and cold days.  They have a lack of sleep, long days……they stand to keep us safe a lot longer than 10 days.


Here are a few fun facts about our trip

 – Temperature ranged 32-105

 – We traveled in 14 states + Washington DC
 – From Loveland, OH to Ontario, CA to DC to Loveland, OH – 6200+ miles
 – Thanks for all the thoughts and prayers.


We did not pay for meals on our mission. Every town we stayed in welcomed us, fed us, and prayed for our safety.  The support, encouragement, respect that the Americans have for the mission is incredible.  There is an unbelievable amount of time hanging banners, kids making bracelets, making pocket patches, hanging flags on the overpasses, closing down streets, organizing volunteers for meals, setting up fuel stops. and the list goes on.

100s, 1000s of hours given by so many to make this happen: route coordinator, state coordinators, missing man coordinator, staging team, fuel team, hydration team, road guards, medical personnel…..and the riders themselves.  The logistics to get that many people across the country has to be done by so many

We continually asked each other: What time is it? What time zone are we in? What day is it? What state are we in?  But there is one thing we knew the answer to: what was our mission?

Mission Statement of RFTW : 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


I have sent many quotes thru the last 10 days.  Here are my last few:

         U – Unselfish

      S – Service to

      A – America

 

It is foolish and wrong to mourn the men who died.

Rather we should thank God that such men lived.

                                 General George Patton

Honor and Remember them all.

On the Run, we said the Pledge every day.  I see our flag and have taken pictures of it all week. Every time I see it waving in the air, it is telling me I am free.  And that right is protected by our men and women.  Let’s continue to try and bring them all home.

HOW FAR ARE WE GOING???  —— ALL THE WAY

MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!!!

Hitch, Valor and her husband sent me this at the end of the day.

“A Grateful Nation Thank You for Your Service.

WE WILL NEVER FORGET”

One more set of prayers please, and that is to get everyone home safely from DC and continue to pray for all service men and women, past and present. 

I leave you with this song:

Arlington (by Trace Adkins)

I never thought that this is where I’d settle down
I thought I’d die an old man back in my hometown
They gave me this plot of land
Me and some other men, for a job well-done
There’s a big white house
Sits on a hill just up the road
The man inside
He cried the day they brought me home
They folded up a flag and told my mom and dad
We’re proud of your son

And I’m proud to be
On this peaceful piece of property
I’m on sacred ground
And I’m in the best of company
I’m thankful for those thankful
For the things I’ve done
I can rest in peace
I’m one of the chosen ones
I made it to Arlington

I remember daddy brought me here when I was eight
We searched all day
To find out where my grand-dad lay
When we finally found that cross
He said, “Son this is what it costs
To keep us free”

Now here I am, a thousand stones away from him
He recognized me on the first day I came in
And it gave me a chill when he clicked his heels
And saluted me

And I’m proud to be
On this peaceful piece of property
I’m on sacred ground
And I’m in the best of company
I’m thankful for those thankful
For the things I’ve done
I can rest in peace
I’m one of the chosen ones
I made it to Arlington

And every time I hear twenty-one guns
I know they brought another hero home to us

We’re thankful for those thankful
For the things we’ve done
We can rest in peace
‘Cause we are the chosen ones
We made it to Arlington

Yeah, dust to dust
Don’t cry for us
We made it to Arlington

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Original logo from 1989:

God bless the USA.

https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXc3759DaekJ6iDmNT1VAAVMWtSj0AyNQ1KEe6M_v4BEwEFO63X_SlgONK7rjllGsO4dGIcZvDtBxJCj4weeAwAgTx7iajrbrkW4dYvv2NN-iGoYVx_xIH8wFrukwD9KSITscL3mLrNZhN/s1600/end+flag.jpg

 

 

NEVER FORGET !!!!!

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CR – May 23, 2025 – Day 10 to DC – Lewisburg, WV to Washington DC

May 23, 2025 – Day 10 to DC – Lewisburg, WV to Washington DC

First I need to correct something from yesterday.  The young man at the capitol building is Jared McCormick.  Thanks for the correction.

In 2023, there was an FNG that wrote a poem to summarize the run for him. Ed read it before we left Ontario but I thought since we have now finished the 10 days, and many people now understand the logistics of the Run, it is a good place to read it again.

We start are day with the Pledge of Allegiance and prayer.  Where are the FNGs, our veterans, those currently serving, Blue Star families and a moment of silence for Gold Star, MIA and POW families?  I believe I will be thinking about this everyday.  I do not want to forget.
Gunny came up and said a few words One thing that stuck was that a moment in time does not end today, we have love and a family, and that will never end.
Several people came to see us off.

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It was a bit overcast today BUT no rain.
It soon changed to this.   Yeah!!!  Did I already say no rain?
Another one of my backward shots.  This one only took 2 tries.
The ride in the morning was spectacular.  Beautiful, amazing,….
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Gas stops. Fueling and staging are a piece of cake now.  See I knew we could do it!!!

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Hydration is always there and ready.
I noticed the back of Dennis’ truck has a person he is riding for. Look at the back left.
You do not have to be a bike rider, everyone can remember our MIA/KIAs.
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Back on the road.  Lots of traffic today and fun with semis.
Here the road guards got caught behind them.
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Heading into our lunch stop at Northern Fauquier Community park in Marshall, VA.
What a welcome!!

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What a great day and venue for a picnic with your family.  This is what it felt like.
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For the last 10 days I have been trying to show you all the teams needed to get RFTW across this beautiful country.
One I forgot is one you do not want to have to work.  Crawfish is our medical person.   Thanks Crawfish.  I hope you were not busy on this mission.
There was a pinning ceremony for those that served in Vietnam 1955-1975. The lady here lost her father when she was 3.  She and others are sons and daughters of Vietnam Veterans are working to find all MIA/KIAs and bring them home.
Her father was one that was found.  His name will now have a diamond by it instead of a cross on the Vietnam Wall in Arlington.
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Back on the road.
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Then we hit the outskirts of DC.  UGH….I do not like going into DC as the traffic is crazy.
BUT….. thanks to the VA state coordinator, Ed, we ran in the HOV lane alone….
CHECK THIS OUT!!
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Then we need to start moving left… yes…. they are blocked for us.
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…6 lanes open.
What a reception.  Midway and Southern are already in and they greet us as we roll in.
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WOW… into  a parking garage to park?  It worked.
Valor and Hitch send a great big smile to all.  Thanks for being out raffle rouser!!
A flag ceremony was just outside the garage.  All 3 routes were meeting, just like we did on Ontario.
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The National Anthem was sung and it was amazing.

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HOW FAR ARE WE RIDING???

ALL THE WAY !!!

HOW FAR ARE WE RIDING???

ALL THE WAY !!!

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BUT the mission is not complete until we get to the Wall tomorrow. 

Temps: 45-65

Route: I-64 E, I-81N, I-66E

Miles:257

Quote for the day:

A veteran is someone who at one  point in their life wrote a bank check

made payable to their country for an amount up to, and including their life.

THANK YOU!!!

Here is a flag on the back of a helmet. It reminds me that I am able to ride on this mission because I am free and those that serve have preserved it for me.

REMEMBER: Please thank our men and women in the service as well as our police and firemen. A simple hand shake goes a long way and it only takes a minute.

Last post will be tomorrow.

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CR – May 22, 2025 – Day 9 to DC – Hurricane, WV to Lewisburg, WV

May 22, 2025 – Day 9 to DC – Hurricane, WV to Lewisburg, WV

Today is the day we go to Rainelle. We have worked all week to raise money for the kids there. It is hard to describe the feeling you get when you get there.

There was one team I have not mentioned.  No rider can travel with the pack until they see registration.er Here you get your wristband, platoon number, gas sticker…. meet the team.

This is the last day for auctions, turning military challenges and platoon challenges, and last 50/50.  Here are a few of the items used for the kids at Rainelle.

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The brick will be returned and placed around the surveille tree. Thanks for all that carried it.

Kirk starts off the Pledge of Allegiance, prayer, calling out FNGs, Veterans, Blue Star families and a moment of silence for Gold Star, MIA and POW families.

He then talked about how all these people are part of your Run family.  Some stories are funny and hence you may get a road name while others really make you think.

There is a story told of an FNG that sat next to another Run rider.  He asked the FNG why he was riding.  Because my dad is MIA and there is nothing they have heard about him. After a little conversation, he asked what his call sign was.  The veteran rider said he knew his dad and where he went down, and had a lot more details.  From there, things started rolling.  Coincidence?  I think not.

We roll out as Turkey, one of the road guards makes sure all the platoons are in order.  Then Walrus is at the exit, but this time with no tutu.

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We  need lots of road guards to get us to Charleston for the military memorial.

Hey!!!! did you guys get his right? We are riding on the sidewalk.  Be careful, do not hit anyone!!

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What do you think they are discussing…. maybe we were supposed to send them another way?
In all fairness, the road guards are incredible.  They keep that bubble around us to get us safely to DC.  Thanks guys….. oh and remember, I am a road guard in training… as soon as I figure out how to ride a motorcycle, I will continue my training…. ok?
As we enter, there is a young man standing, Josh, saluting as the pack passes. He has been standing there for the Run every year since he was one.  He is now 20 and will remain standing until all have arrived.

His grandmother worked in one of the buildings in the capital.  The grandmother’s husband is a Vietnam vet. He served from 1966-1969.  One year actually in Vietnam as a radio operator.

They have been married for 53 years.  I admire all the women who have stayed with their husbands from the Vietnam War (or any war).  They too have suffered.  Many of our soldiers have changed and have problems with coping yet the spouses have stayed with them. Thanks ladies.  This goes also for any women that served.  Thanks, guys, for sticking with your wives.

He told me today he was supposed to work in Tennessee for his job. But it was raining and he was able to come here to see us in. Coincidence?

There is a Gold Star wall in Charleston. It is the first Gold Star Families Memorial Monument.  It is beautiful.

There are 4 panels:

The Homeland panel features images representing the wild and wonderful state of West Virginia. It is home to many Gold Star Families. It is our people, it is our home. It is our Freedom. 

The Family panel represents the uniquely brave spirit of our military families who provide support to their Loved Ones serving in our Armed Forces of the United States of America.

The Patriot panel shows the raising of the American Flag on Iwo Jima, which symbolizes those who vigorously support and defend our great Nation through selfless service in our Armed Forces.

The Sacrifice panel represents the sacrifices made by our Gold Star Families by the loss of their Loved One while in service to our country.

At the center of the tribute is a silhouette of a saluting service member, which represents the void created by the loss  of the loved ones who have paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.

There is a second monument:

The West Virginia Veterans Memorial is a two-story oval shaped monument honoring more than 10,000 West Virginians who made the ultimate sacrifice in defending the nation in twentieth century conflicts. Composed of four limestone monoliths surrounded by a reflecting pool, the interior walls are faced in polished black granite etched with the names of these men and women. The 4 wars are WWI, WWII, Korea and Vietnam.   On the inside are the names of those from WV that died.  Incredible.
 
On the outside is a statue like this for all 4 wars.  Beautiful and sad.
Sad to see so many names of those that gave their ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.


We all gathered to get a picture on the steps of the capital. I will put that in the post tomorrow.

 
We parked right in front of the capitol building which is pretty neat.
 

As we head up to Rainelle, I will take you on a ride that was so inspiring of the people of this great nation.  Respect and honor for the riders and their cause.  They come out every year and every year we see the younger generation…we need to keep showing them the way.

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OH MY GOSH!!!  Check out the kids. 

All are shouting U.S.A as loud as they can.  
It was so  loud, it drowned out the roar  of the motorcycles.

 

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After the kids is the rest of the town…. for at least a mile on both sides to the street.

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We have the young and the old.  They were just as excited as the kids, but they got a little cold.  Thanks to the staff for bringing them out.  I am sure many remember the beginning years in 1989.
Then comes the fun part.  We become the stars as they ask for our autograph.
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Here the kids get to sign a shirt of the riders.

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Let’s head inside for lunch.  Check out the walls.

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You cannot forget about the Banana Pudding…… YUM
I hope  you can read these next 2.  Get the tissues ready.

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All the kids have these shirts “We Are the Future”.

This is so true.

Now comes the part the Run riders have worked so hard for all week. We present Kim, the Principle, with the money we have raised.
James “Gunny” Gregory, the founder, and his wife Patty are present for the day.
We all say the Pledge and sing the National Anthem.

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RFTW presented Kim with our donation… She is about in tears.  This money is used for so many things:  field trips, new playground equipment, computers, school supplies…..

Kim made a comment that every kid here understands patriotism, the red, white, and  blue, and sacrifice.  The  Run and its rider are a great influence for this next generation.

The lady with Gunny was a teacher on the first year in 1989.
He tells the story of how some of those in the school said we have bikers coming.
Some said no , “They are our veterans!!”
The town  opened their arms to these soldiers and have held on tight for 35 years.
I do not think they will ever let them go.
Thanks Rainelle!!!!
So there has been some confusion during the last 9 days.  Everyone knows Gomez, aka Go-go. There has been an FNG that everyone has mistaken him for Gomez.  See what you think.  Mama O was sure confused.  See what you think.  They are not related and they both have their first name of Al.
Most of the day was a little overcast but by the time we leave they are beautiful.
Even at dinner, my sister-in-law saw this and sent it to me.
What a way to end a great day.

Way to go RIDERS!!  You are incredible. One day left.

Temps: 53-68 

Route: I-64E, Rt 60

Miles: 121

Quote:  The Price of Freedom is Written on the Wall

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CR – May 21, 2025 – Day 8 to DC – Corydon, IN to Nitro, WV

May 21, 2025 – Day 8 to DC – Corydon, IN to Nitro, WV

Wow! What a great and exhausting day! This one may take a few minutes longer to read. We had lots of stops to make today.

Before we left, we had this lady come on stage. (Sorry I did not get her name). She had her dad’s ashes in the box she was carrying. She said her dad loved RFTW and he had crossed the country 3 times with them. RFTW saved his life over and over again. He started volunteering when he was in his seventies. He loved the loud pipes and the roar of the engines. She asked if someone could carry him to the Wall. One last ride. One of the chase vehicles completed the first leg today. He will make it to the Wall one last time.

 

 

 

Check out the sunrise today.

 

This is as we were were entering downtown Louisville crossing the Ohio River.
This is KY giving us an escort thru spaghetti junction in downtown Louisville.
I do not even like to drive this in a car. Very confusing (but I guess it works)
Thanks Lee (KY state coordinator) for making this happen.
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Check this out. I actually got a pic backward.
NO I did not turn around…. Pretty good, right? It only took me 3 tries.
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First stop today is to Rex Robley VA Medical Center

Google:

Rex Robley was born in Hopkinsville, Kentucky, and enlisted in the military in May, 1919, six months after the Armistice date. He served for 3 years.  He was the last Kentucky World War I era veteran, and the last known World War I era veteran of the United States.

In 1986, Rex turned to volunteerism, lending support to fellow veterans at the Louisville Veterans Administration Medical Center. Rex logged more than 14,000 hours of volunteer time while at the Center. He dedicated his life helping his fellow veterans, both through the veterans service organizations and activities at the Medical Center.  He continued to volunteer there three days a week, even at age 105.

There was gentleman that greeted me who knew about  “Popcorn” Billy.  He gave me the story about Billy.  The 2 men and Billy’s twin brother served in the same unit from 1968-69.  They were in the 57th Assault Helicopter Company. It was the first attack on a helicopter unit. Billy’s brother died in this attack and Billy was wounded.  Ever since he has been helping all the people.  The name “popcorn” came because he made popcorn and sold it then donated the proceeds. He bought all the supplies.  Always smiling and he loves hugs!! (He has since retired.)

Also, after his brother died, Billy was very bitter. A minister told him, you can be angry for the rest of your life, or you can choose to honor your brother’s legacy. At that point, he turned his life around.

 Billy welcomes us and has us all join him for the Pledge of Allegiance.

He left us with this:

“Please enjoy your life while you can, and be happy and healthy the rest of your days.”

He sees me and Jenny and grabs a hug!!! He said he feels like he died and went to heaven. I think he says that to all the ladies!

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He is now 80 and his ailments from Vietnam are really affecting him.

He has stopped doing the popcorn but still goes and visits the vets.

Many of the riders were able to go in and visit with the veterans.  They love it when RFTW rolls in.

Ok let’s head out for our next stop, Vietnam War Sundial.
The sky was gorgeous.
Yeah!!!…. still no cars.
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This next stop is one of my favorite memorials  (hahaha I have several).  I still do not quite understand it even though I have heard and read about it for 10 years.
As we are coming off the exit we hear the sound of a Huey.  Sure enough he is hovering over the Run.
 
Col. Cecil spent 10-15 minutes explaining the sundial.
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Vietnam War Sundial

The Kentucky Vietnam Veterans Memorial was designed with a unique approach to honor the military dead from one of America’s most troubled conflicts. A 14-foot high steel sundial stands at the center of a granite plaza. Its gnomon casts a shadow on the chiseled name of each fallen Vietnam war veteran — 1,103 of them — on the anniversary of when they were killed.  Thus each individual is honored with a personal tribute.

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Kentucky’s 23 MIAs are listed behind the sundial, so its shadow never falls on their names.  Some have been found since this was built. Those are the ones with a date.  We never forget and we will not stop until we bring them all home.

The Memorial is one of the largest granite memorials in the nation and contains 327 cut stone panels weighing more than 215 tons. The stone came from the Pyramid Blue quarry in Elberton, GA. The lettering of the names and dates are the same style used for official government grave markers throughout the nation, including Arlington National Cemetery.  

If you remember when we were at Williams, Larry asked an FNG to carry a book to get signatures as we crossed the country. This book along with a POW/MIA flag will be presented to the loved ones in the Fall of this year. The person we are doing this for is John C Stringer II.

Kelly, the RFTW photographer, knows all the MIA men listed here.

He was able to get in contact with his daughter and she met us here.

Roger is the FNG Vietnam Veteran that is gathering the names.  As far as I know, this is the first time the families have met the person who is honorably carrying the book across the country.

 

Do you remember Gunny talking about the 3 that were left behind:  Hall, Hargrove, and Marshall.  Hall was from Kentucky and his name is here.  Gunny points to Hall and Shelton.  He knew them both.

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As Col. Cecil  concludes, he asks us to come on the memorial, pick a name and call it out.  Say their names out loud  so they are not forgotten.  Where are the tissues?  It was amazing to hear this!!!

People walking around calling out the names.  Some struggled emotionally but there was always someone there for them.  Remember this is a healing mission.

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If a person’s remains are found, there is a date next to their name of when it was recovered

Then that name is put on the plaza.  Here is an example:

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If you ever get a chance to go see it, go.  It is amazing and an engineering marvel. (Just make sure you go when the sun is out.)

Family, friends and well wishers see us off.

So many communities support the Run in so many ways.

THANKS to all for your support and prayers.

Next stop is lunch. Clay Community Center in

Mt. Sterling always has a super greeting and good food.

We are in position 6 today and even though that is not fun to be so far back,

I had great picture opportunities. Check these out and the blue sky.

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WOW!!!! Hurricane is our final stop. We had people waving and cheering from the exit to the park. Amazing. We never get tired of this. Nitro and Hurricane take turns hosting and they work together to put on the best.

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Here is Gunny as we come in.
These are the little princesses and they led us in the  Pledge of Allegiance.

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The lady here is a Gold Star mom. Her son was killed in 2005.  She was telling me a little bit about him.

As a kid he took up Karate and became a black belt. He loved rock climbing and excelled at it.

She said all the things he did prepared him to be the best soldier he could.  He always saw the good in people and had a great sense of  humor.  He loved life.  She is a proud mom and even though he was killed at 24, she  knew he was proud of what he did.  Thank you.

-This is proudly worn on her hat.
As we enter the dinner hall, here is Roger still getting signatures.
Everyone is loving this idea and want to sign the book
Thanks Roger.

YEAH!!!!! Tomorrow we go to Rainelle and see the kids.

Temps: 63-74 

Route: I-64E

Miles: 252

Quote for the day:

            Heroes do not wear capes, they wear dog tags.

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CR – May 20, 2025 – Day 7 to DC – Wentzville, MO to Corydon, IN

May 20, 2025 – Day 7 to DC – Wentzville, MO to Corydon, IN

Today started out at 63 degrees. YEAH!!!  No heated gear.

Valor, Hitch’s daughter, is helping out this morning’s 50/50.  All the money raised is for the kids of Rainelle.  Not much longer and you will meet them.

 

This is the FNG class for Central Route.  WOW!!!  hope you all are coming back next year.

 

Time to head out for the longest leg of the day.
2 miles to the first Vietnam Memorial in America (that is not a typo). Hahaha
As we leave, there is a daycare in this building.
Thanks teachers for bringing them out to support our veterans.
OH my are we starting with the allergies already.
Thank you sir for your service !
(remember you all can say it too, it only take a minute)
As we get closer to the memorial, one of the schools is out and the kids line the street.
Really nice that the teachers embrace the Run and the history
There is a laying of the wreath presentation 2 of the Run riders.
The band plays the National Anthem.  WOW….
Here is most of the Central Route.
3 of our bike platoons are on a break out to Perryville

Google:

Wentzville Vietnam Veterans Memorial

Wentzville takes extreme pride in being home to the first Vietnam Veterans Memorial in the United States. Wentzville was the first city in the nation to realize that the troops who served in Vietnam deserved to be honored.

As it stands today, the Wentzville Vietnam Veterans Memorial consists of a single-column of red Missouri granite, topped by the carved figure of an eagle. Inscribed in the column’s base is:

Vietnam Veterans Memorial December 1967

“Whither thou goest, I will go.”

In 2015, my FNG year, I met Sue at the Wentzville Vietnam Memorial. Sue was in the Navy in 1955.
She served 2 years as coordinator of the women’s barrack.  She was the quarter bouncer. 
The next 2 years she served as a stewardess for the commanders. 
 
We see each other once a year and I still call her family. She is now 88. Thanks for being there.
Here is Sue with her daughter Sherry.
I went to Perryville last year on a breakout. They have a replica of the Vietnam Wall.  Here is some information that the guide gave me as we walked around.  I found it very interesting.
On the wall there are multiple panels.
  • The panels start at the apex from 1959 and end there in 1975.
  • Each panel has the name listed alphabetically with in the day of their loss
    • So if you see : Jones, Murphy, Smith, Brown,…. Brown starts a new day
  • The first panel has 700 names, and it took 5 years to get them
  • Panel 2 took 5 months
  • Panel 3 took 5 weeks

 

This place on the wall has the same exact name. It is 2 different people,
killed on same day and both from Missouri
A cross denotes MIA

 

  • 15 was the youngest and 62 was the oldest
  • 22 was the average age but most were 18
  • 3 sets father/son
  • 40 sets of brothers
  • 16 clergy
  • May 1968 was the worst month
  • Coins left:

Penny – signifies that someone (veteran or civilian) has visited the grave
Nickel – signifies that the coin-leaver attended boot camp with the veteran
Dime – signifies that the coin-leaver served with the veteran in some capacity
Quarter – signifies that the coin-leaver was present when the veteran died

Did you ever go down the road and pass a beef processing plant where all the cows are outside?
Well riding a bike you can smell it before you ever get there. Part of the joys of being on a bike.
 
 

But then we get a little further down the road, and see all these hay bails….much better smell.

I am trying to appeal to your senses like we have when we ride. Did it work? Sure it did.
Yeah… we will have our escort thru St. Louis.

The famous Arch that St. Louis is known for.

Next head to Mt. Vernon for lunch.  They park us on the Airport tarmac.
Great space and easy for the staging crew.
We are greeted by the middle school kids.  Nice to see so many towns bringing out the kids.
After lunch, there is a ceremony presenting award for thanking all who helped
and the singing of the National Anthem.  WOW can she sing it!!!!
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Lets head down the road for our last stop of the day. Fish dinner in Corydon, IN.
Ready to roll.  Look at the room.
Here is another job the road guards do. Start each platoon so they stay in the right order for the day.
Here it is easy because they were staged that way. In some or the parking lots, they have to be in multiple places.
Gorgeous skies today  and lots of people out on the overpasses.
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Here are a few of our road guards as they pass by me. Since we have no escort, the roads are open.  They block the entrance ramp then circle to the front.
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Here is “Boots”. Can you guess why?

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Check out these bridges…few to many.
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As we head down the road, I realize there are no other cars and every bridge has someone on it. Curt Gilman, Indiana state coordinator must have been busy since last year.
The landscape has changed quite a lot from the last few days: hills and green trees.  Pretty cool riding these roads.
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Last stop for the day, Corydon for a fish dinner.  What another great reception.  I think it gets bigger every year.
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Hard go believe this was day 7.  Our day to Rainelle  and DC is just around the corner.

Temp: 63-85

Route: I-64E

Total Miles: 290

Quote for the day:

Please tell him he is more than just a name on a wall

Posted on by

CR – May 19, 2025 – Day 6 to DC – Junction City, KS to Wentzville, MO

May 19, 2025 – Day 6 to DC – Junction City, KS to Wentzville, MO

Here are our Vietnam vets for today:

                                             

Roger Canady
He was in the Air Force from 1970-1991
He was in Vietnam 71-72, Offett 72-74, McClellan 74-79, Travis 79-83, McClellan 83-91
He did aircraft structural repair
 
Larry Koenig
He served in the Army from January 1972 to January 1996.
He was at Ft Leonard Wood , MO ; Missouri  Ft. Carson CO; Fort Benning; Georgia Germany: Ft Riley, KS Fort Leavenworth KS Fort Bliss TX: southwest Asia
His rank was Sergeant Major.
His job was infantry and staff operations.
                                                             THANK YOU FOR FOR SERVICE
 
**************************************************

First I thought I would show these 2 pics I forgot to post from Winslow AZ from Kelly.  It is the 911 Memorial.  Sometime a few platoons have a break out. Meaning they will go ahead of the pack for these kind of stops.

–

Today I rode with the Ambassadors.  They are the group that will go on the bridges and thank the people for coming out and showing support for our veterans. There is a morning meeting like all the other platoons. (and guess what…. a platoon challenge). They will sometimes go to kids’ schools  if there are not many overpasses.  AZ is a good example.

 

e
First stop 4 people and a big flag.  We thanked them and as we were leaving, we asked how long the one gentleman served.  Another comment came from the 2nd person that said he did not serve that long. The first gentleman came back with : no matter how long you serve, 1 day, 4 years or 20 years, we all want lasting peace.  Soooo true
 
Sun was trying to come out and made cool sun rays thru the clouds ( you know I love  pics of any kind).
 
Next stop a bridge with a few more flags….impressive.

 

 
Even more flags so when you get on the bridge you expect to to see a lot of people.  I had so many questions: how long does it take to set up, how many help,…..  Nope , no time.  Hand out pins and head to the next bridge.  With this  team, they send 2-3 people up the ramp, hand out pins and back on the highway.  Then join their pack.   It is like leap frog.  You can hit pretty many bridges.  Impressive.
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–

Thanks Sony and Eric for letting me tag along.  

Also thanks to Dan Gilman (aka Eleven) for giving me a ride.

You do so much for RFTW that a lot of people do not see.

Since I was with one of the advanced teams, I am ahead of the pack.  Cool, I get to see the pack come in and see some of the road guards at work.

 

Soooo  am watching them……

 

…then I look over his shoulder.  I can do this… 
 
What do you think?  Road guard in training….Maybe not.  I would have to learn how to drive a motorcycle.  I do not see that in my future.

Another very important part of our mission is the missing man.  It is an honor and privilege to ride this position for someone, usually KIA or MIA. The escort “Rides for those who can’t.”

The person’s name is put in the Missing Man position.  Every leg on the Run is covered.

Missing Man

Formation:

Route Coordinator                    State Coordinator

Escort                                        Missing Man (space)

Missing Man Coordinator        Head Chaplin

Many of the riders will stop and pay respect to the person in the Missing Man place.

Today Judy rides for her brother. You saw earlier in the week when we were at the Vietnam wall replica in Eagle Nest that his name is on the wall.


These are the 2 on the above sheet.

 

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Tom Pogue with his wife Denise coordinates those that want to ride here. 

Thank you for your dedication to this aspect of the Run.

 Left is Thumper, state coordinator, and right is Kirk, Route coordinator.

Here is how it looks on the road.

As I continue to the bike, I see the Last Man vehicle. This is the same one that got hit with a ton of hail balls. Looks really good now. Tommy “Two Chains”, lets the RC know when he is on the highway. The RC hold the pack to about 45 MPH until everyone is on.

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***********************

I have been trying to give you an idea logistically how we get across our beautiful country.  Maybe I should have started with our Road Guards.

These guys create a bubble around the whole pack. Here are some of the things they do:

  • They have an advance team that will run in front the pack and check the roads ahead, set people at the turn interchanges and lets the road guard captain if any issues  ahead
  • They will block on ramps so no cars get in the middle of the pack
  • They stop traffic at all intersections for the pack to go thru without stopping
  • They direct the bikers into the gas pumps then toward the staging teams
  • Work with the LEOs for clearing the highways.
  • Sit on the side of the road or run along the pack to see if there are any large gaps. We want to keep the pack tight.
  • And I am sure I have missed several other things

Few pics of our team. Will Bill and Top hat are 2 of our more seasoned guard and also Vietnam vets. Thanks guys for all you do.

–

I will show more pics over the next several days.
 
Ok back on the road after the gas stop and now I am riding with Dan Koster , aka Boilermaker.  In Missouri, the local, state, city… police departments get together to give us a traffic free highway….we love this.   They are known for a “Flying V” with all the officers.  Since Dan is in the front….. perfect chance.  
 
 
 
Well best laid plans …. not so good today but here is what I got.  Awesome to see it work.   All these cities , towns and states work really hard to get us cross county safely.
Time for lunch.  Thanks all for keeping us safe to complete our mission.

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Time for lunch.
We are in Concordia. Best little park and great food.  I know I will have gained 10 pounds before I get home.

 

The kids in this picture walked around and handed our buttons that they made.  They also handed out cards so we could reply  to the school.  We give our city and state, then pin them on a map.  Great geography and history lessons.  They are our future.
 
I was informed today of another road guard job…. sort of.  Lori , the event coordinator, was last in line for food.  She looked pretty tired so Clutch said he would serve her.
Then a few others stopped in line, so he kept serving.  
I guess I need to add this to the list.  What do you think Catfish?

 

Check out the support as we leave….

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Oh My GOSH!!!.  This  was so exciting.  They were screaming and waving flags.  Good thing I had a helmet on since my allergies were kicking in.

We are half way cross country and I am always impressed with the bridges.  
How long have they waited, how long to put up the flags, who made the signs.
Remember we go under the bridge in a matter of minutes.  LOVE this.

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Last stop is Wentzville.  Look at the people as we roll in.

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What a great venue. 

This lady sang our National Anthem and it sounded so good outside.  Then they played Taps…Who has the tissues?  I cannot get past this ever.  Anyone else need a tissue?

Steak and potatoes on the menu.  

WOW…. great… here we go again ..it will now be 15 pounds.
And the desserts…..yum!

Thanks to all the people we met that have supported us in so many aspects.

We truly live in a great and giving and caring country.

*********

SAY THEIR NAME AND THEY WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN.

Temps: 55-77

Route: I-70E

Miles: 343

Quotes for the day:

Honoring the past, inspiring the future

We don’t know them all, but we owe them all.

Posted on by

CR – May 18, 2025– Day 5 to DC – Limon, CO to Junction City, KS

May 18, 2025– Day 5 to DC – Limon, CO to Junction City, KS

Before I get started, I saw a great one yesterday….. a HONDA on a trailer….

 

Also a little fun in Eagle Nest

Kim opens the door for out fearless RC.

Then Salutes him…. hahaha… Kirk why are you in a car in the first place.

********************************************************

Here are a few of our Vietnam vets:

Jim Blinn

Served in the Navy 
Served 1966-1970 
Served 2 tours on CVS-12 USS Hornet
He was an E-5
He was an aircraft mechanic
Rod George

 

I was in Army.  Served in Vietnam, Ft Carson Colorado & Nurnberg Germany. from 1968 to 1972.  My rank was E-5. Vietnam Combat, the rest 71L.  I enjoyed the military.

****************************************

While we were still in Ontario, Deano sang this song. I got the words and thought you really need to read them. It says so much about RFTW as a healing mission. Thanks Deano (he is on the fuel team).

 

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Nobody Knows.

         Written by Kelly Anderson (aka Deano)

I came home my emotions raw, No one should ever see what I saw.

I came home, not to flags and Cheers. Just the ridicule throughout the years.

I took a gun and placed it to my head. Sometimes I think that I’d be better off dead.

Chorus:

I know there’s a wall, with the names of them all.

I can’t make myself go, cuz nobody knows.

2nd verse:

I got down on my knees and prayed, God help me not to feel this way.

Then I heard about the Run for the Wall, I packed my bags and I rode with them all.

 I rode with them mile after mile, I can’t understand why they smile.

Chorus:

I know there’s a wall, with the names of them all.

 I can’t make myself go, cuz nobody knows.

3rd verse:

Day after day, town after town. I can feel myself coming around.

But I know, The Wall is up ahead, I can’t get these demons from my head.

Then I saw,10000 people there. They said they didn’t go, but they still care.

Chorus:

I know there’s a wall, with the names of them all.

 I can’t make myself go, cuz nobody knows.

Final verse:

Family beside me, I walked down-the-line. I touched every name, and I began to cry.

Brothers surround me, they wouldn’t let me go. They said they love me and that they also know.

At that moment, I knew I was home. I knew that I would never be alone.

Run for the Wall, you got me here. With you beside me I can beat this fear.

Final chorus:

I’m at the wall, with the names of them all. You helped me to go,

 

Cuz SOMEBODY knows.

*************************************************************

One more neat story before we get the day started.  

 

While we were in Holbrook, Kelly our photographer was taking pictures of all the school kids.  Then there was a bike that stopped and the rider got off.  Kelly immediately thought there was a problem and went to check on him.  He said he was ok but lost his wedding ring.  He and the rider started looking.  Then a staff member came over and also asked if there was an issue.  Then a few cars driving asked the same.  Now there is about 20 people looking for this ring.  AND they found it.  There must have been a little help from above on this one. Coincidence? 

Then Kelly noticed a little boy that was sitting on the side walk.  He was holding something.  He was the only one that had something in their lap.  Kelly asked him and he  said it was a POW. Keeping him safe.  WOW!!!

 

**********************************

At  the morning meeting, Kirk (aka Pretty Boy) had a special guest, his son Chase.  He will soon be getting his permit to drive a motorcycle.  Oh my another Olson on the road with a motorcycle.  Harlan: maybe you better teach him.  He said he already had a road name PBJ = Pretty Boy Junior….. oh my, help us.

Pretty need family.  Summary: Harlan RC in 2018, Janelle leadership support several years, Kirk road guard and RC.  Only make  sense that Chase follow in their footsteps.

Word of the day is BRIDGES.  Kansas’s state coordinator tries to get all the bridges covered with any where from 1-30+ people on them.  I will be popping the pics in thought out this report. You may get bored with seeing them but believe me, while you are riding, it is the coolest to see the people come out and support the Run.  Here is a start:

 

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Next stop is Oakley and lunch
Different kind of parking for the staging group.
Use the full street and line them up the way they came in.

As we get off the bikes, we see several groups of kids walking around giving us water.  Way to go moms.  Such a valuable lesson for our next generation

Great facility  and the weather held off for use to enjoy lunch.

As Larry and I were getting ready to head out, we saw the Outreach team.  They had been meeting with a Gold Star family.  Reminding them their loved ones are not forgotten.  We will say their name.  

A prayer is said and a scripture passage of read.
                                      

They are presented with a gold star so they will know that RFTW will not forget them.

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They usually meet with 35-37 families on the 10 trip to DC.  Thank you Outreach team!!
Ok saddle up, rain is coming in Junction City KS our final destination.  We leave early to try and beat the rain.  For those of  you that read or were around last year, know we rode thru a hail storm with tornados popping up near us.  Hail is no fun.  I was talking to a few of the ride and many remembered I posted last year the number it did on my leg. They asked me to post if. Others were just as bad but here is what mine looked like after getting hit with hail this big.
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So needless to say no one complained about leaving early.
And people still came out.
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We passed our merchandise truck on the way.  We have 3 FNGs doing this for us and they are very excited to be part of the family.
Thank you!!
Here is a police officer in the median…. wow
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A little fun with the road guards.
  I think you have the order  a little wrong but you get the idea.
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We have been dry all the way into Junction City.  Stopped for gas and really???
Yes, we got some rain.  But they still came out.

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AHHH there is a spotting of the founding father for RFTW and his wife:  Gunny and Patio

The rain stopped and the ceremony was able to commence.

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Broken Spoke Wreath was represented by 2 of our youngest veterans that were FNGs.  What an honor.

Once  this was complete, the threat of rain came back again.   The prayer warriors were there but next time can you please add no rain…. that would be nice.

Temps: 48-74

Route: I-70E

Miles: 394

Quote for the Day:

Never forget.

This is on the wall:

History will remember the war

Will America remember her men?

Posted on by

CR – May 17, 2025 – Day 4 to DC – Eagle Nest, NM to Limon, CO

May 17, 2025 – Day 4 to DC – Eagle Nest, NM to Limon, CO

Here are the Vietnam veterans for today:

Bob Dorfman
USAF
Served 1967-1968
Served i Phan Rang AB
Job was Aircraft Mechanic (crew chief) F-100D
Comment: It is an honor to ride with my veteran brothers and sisters.
Bob is currently riding with the trailer platoon
Wayne Nicholls – Redcatcher

I was drafted into the U.S. Army in August, 1969. Basic Training was at Fort Ord. Advanced Training was at Fort Sill, OK for Field Artillery.

I was sent to Vietnam on 10 JAN 1970 where I joined B Battery, 2nd/40th Artillery (Airmobile) 199th Light Infantry Brigade. I returned home 10 NOV 1970 with a rank of SP4.

In 2004 I was an FNG with the Central Route. I needed a road name, so two of my Vietnam veteran brothers, after learning I had served with the 199th decided my road name of “Redcatcher.”

The 199th light Infantry Brigade were known for their success in killing or capturing the VC & NVA that it earned the nickname “Redcatcher.”

I am proud to be called Redcatcher!

I also received an email from him I would like to share:

 

WELCOME HOME!!!!

***********************************
Yesterday I said I would get more info on the brick that is going cross country and being carried by an FNG.  Here it is.

 

We have conducted the normal morning meeting with the pledge and the prayer.  Had our auctions….

 

 

 

Kirk reads a bio for the day.  I am not sure how he gets thru these.
 They are tough to read seeing what they went thru.

Then we had a few special guests.

Michelle sent this to me:

Caeleb and Michelle are from Amarillo TX.  Her parents own Nest Cabins and Marina. They invited Blake, their middle son, to stay with them during the RFTW event.  That year Blake won in the 50-50 raffle.  He gave half his winnings to the Army bucket.  The next morning the RFTW family gave Blake over $400 as a way of blessing him for giving the earnings back.  It taught him a great lesson  about giving often returns back to you tenfold.  The kids have attended for several years and have become very close friends with Eddie and Laura (aka Chief and Windi).  Blake 9, his brother Collin 11 and sister Kate 7 look forward to this event every year.

Blake and Collin love the military and have talked about joining RFTW when they get old enough.  Michelle and Caeleb are thankful for the influence of the riders to encourage these kids to server others and missions bigger than themselves, and with intentional with honoring those who make such sacrifices that ensure we get the immense blessing of freedom.

Eddie and Laura have made vest for the kids

The kids presented RFTW with a frame picture.  It has been signed with their classmates and friends.
This is the part you really need to read.
This is the patch on their vests.
THIS IS OUR FUTURE!!!  Thanks to Michelle and Caeleb  for raise such great kids!!!
******************************************
In the platoon meeting, we go over hand signals. Here Baby Bear (Anthony) does jumping jacks.  If you break down and need help, you need to get the attention of the chase vehicles.  I think this would do it.

Ok Now show left turn.   LOOK OUT PAPA SMURF!!  Tomorrow do not stand so close.  hahaha

OK let’s ride!!  Little chilly today but at least no snow.  Eagle Nest if  over 8200 feet.
Great support as we leave town.
Hey this is Collin and Blake.  How cute is that!!!
Heading down the mountain.
       

At the bottom of the mountain, is a Vietnam Memorial.  Several of the platoons left early to visit it.

We would see a lot of road like this today.  Pretty cool to see most of the pack.
We make our way to Raton.  Always a great reception.   It is a gas stop “plus”.
We spend about 45 minutes there and meet with the residents.
 Day 4. We are getting pretty good at this organized chaos.
For a few more miles we get the NM escort.  At the Colorado border we are on our own.
Thanks guys for the last  few days getting us across NM
Cool ride down the mountain.
     
Got to have pics of this beautiful country of ours.
Not many bridges  on this stretch of road, but they come out.
This is probably my favorite before we get into Pueblo.
Pueblo is sometimes a little crazy trying to get thru to lunch.  NOT TODAY.
 Full escort and highway shut down.. YEAH!!!
Chick-fil-a for lunch at Praise Assembly of God.  Great set up.
As I mentioned yesterday, the state coordinator have a busy job:
gas stops, venues for meals, meal donations…. it does not come without a lot of coordination.
Dinner tonight was supposed to be at the high school in Limon but…
they needed to venue for the seniors.  So we are on our own for dinner.  The leadership team, a team I have not mentioned yet, got a lot of gifts cards from the local restaurants to give us.
Then a nice relaxing evening (well at least for some).
The ride from Pueblo to Limon was long.  117 miles and a little over 2 hours.  We were not on highways but a 2 lane road.  Normally this would be ok but I think the wind did not get the memo.  Wind is supposed to be in Kansas not Colorado.  So here are some pics from that ride.
We did see some antelope
Today with the 2 lane roads, we rode a lot in single file.  Most of the time on the highway we ride side by side or staggered.
Something to know….. not worth much….hahaha
Few definitions of rider formation:
Side by Side – riders are right next to each other.
                       xxx    xxx   xxx
                       xxx    xxx   xxx
Staggered – rider are alternate side of the road with a 1 second stagger
                   xxx       xxx     xxx
                         xxx       xxx       xxx
Single file – right behind one another – This is done on narrow roads especially when the road guard need to pass
                  xxx   xxx   xxx   xxx   xxx
**********************************************************************
Last year at the prayer service, Chaplain Howard said this poem from Kelly Strong.
 I thought I would shar again.

FREEDOM IS NOT FREE

I watched the flag pass by one day.
It fluttered in the breeze
a young Marine saluted it, and then
He stood at ease.
I looked at him in uniform
So young, so tall, so Proud
with hair cut square and eyes alert
He’d stand out in any crowd
I thought, how many men like him
Had fallen through the years?
How many died on foreign soil?
How many mothers’ tears?
How many pilots’ planes shot down?
How many foxholes were soldiers’ graves?
No, Freedom is not free.
I heard the sound of taps one night,
When everything was still.
I listened to the bugler play
And felt a sudden chill.
I wondered just how many times
That taps had meant “Amen”
When a flag had draped a coffin
of a brother or a friend.
I thought of all the children,
Of the mothers and the wives,
Of the fathers, sons and husbands
With interrupted lives.
I thought about a graveyard
at the bottom of the sea
Of unmarked graves in Arlington
No, Freedom is not free!!!

Temps: 37-73

Route: I-25N, Hwy 24

Miles: 301

Quotes for the day:

 Some made the ultimate sacrifice.

Thank the Living, Honor the Fallen

Posted on by

CR – May 16, 2025 – Day 3 To DC – Gallup, NM to Eagle Nest, NM

May 16, 2025 – Day 3 To DC – Gallup, NM to Eagle Nest, NM

Here is the bio for the day of one of our Vietnam Vet.

Robert Herbst

US AIR FORCE FORCE   74 Bien Hoa 70 to 71, Norton AFB(Stateside71to74. E2

AIR Freight  specialists, in the states I was a supply specialist, The one thing I will never forget  was meeting Bob Hope in person when he landed at my base.

Welcome Home!

*********************
 

Weather today was a bit chilly, mid 30s, but the sunrise was beautiful. 

 
Today lots of riding to get to Angel Fire Memorial.  I will try to give you some of the logistics  of RFTW today as to what it takes to get every one cross country.  

First thing I saw as I walked up the the morning was this trailer, Beautiful:

 

 
 
 

Then I saw where it was.  On the trailer of one of the chase vehicles.  RFTW normally has 2-3 trucks pulling trailers in case of any breakdowns. They will get them to the dealer as close as they can to get them back on the road to finish  the mission.  Most of the dealers are very familiar with RFTW and get us back on the road as quickly as possible.

This is “Baby Bear” and he has a brick that will be carried cross country by a different FNG everyday. I did not get the full story but when I do I will update you.  I do know that there is a tree called the “Survival Tree”.  It has been struck by lightning 2 times and is still going strong.  The brick will be returned and placed at the base of the tree.

Thanks for carrying this.

Every day we read a bio and someone will carry this to the wall.

 

Kirk made a great comment that really stuck:

“Out here make friends, because they cannot”.


After the morning meeting, each platoon has a meeting.  Since a lot of people cannot make the full trip, we have people drop and start throughout the 10 day.  So the platoon leader has a list of items to go over every days.  This reconfirms to the current one and gets newcomers up to speed.  The chaplains are assigned a few platoons so in the morning they go to the platoon for prayer to keep the riders safe: rubber side down and the shiny side up.  Yesterday “Bulldog” made a comment.  He may be down because he could not get above 2nd gear.  His congregation back home heard about this and many prayed for a fast fix so he can get back on the road.  The next morning the person from his church said go try your bike.  Amazingly it was good to go. Coincidence?  I think not.

 

Even though I am the SitRep Writer, I am still in a platoon.  I am in platoon 1 where my brother, Ron, is the leader.  (My husband is a road guard so I am not allowed to ride with him.)  One thing is to go thru hand signals.  Eric and Susan just joined us today so Ron asked Eric to show the hand signals.  Poor guy!.  He made a mistake and even his wife was laughing.  All in fun

 

 

 

Another way RFTW raises money for Rainelle is with a platoon challenge.  So there is a hat passed around each morning.  But be careful in Ron’s platoon.  You make a mistake it costs you $5.

 
Each platoon has a platoon leader, assistant platoon leader and a tail gunner.
Here is platoon 1.  Ron, Dave and Judy.

OK let’s hit the road.  Gallup gave us a great send of.  

Not sure I ever remember a hot air balloon carrying the American flag.

Pretty cool.

 
We are still in New Mexico and we will have an escort all the way thru the state. 
 
Since we are now in position 5, we get a pretty good picture of the pack.
 
 
 
Organizing this and other things are done by the state coordinators of every state.  They set up gas stops, get hotels to help with giving RFTW good rates, and much more. 
 
Here are a few of the overpasses.  It is Friday, I guess they took off work.  Nice!!!  Thanks
 
We see a lot of this. People on the side of the road.  Set up flags and waving.  
We go past in probably 5 minutes or less and yet they come out.  What great support.
 
 
First stop is a gas stop, Route 66 Casino.  This is a gas stop…. look at the people.
 
 
 
Here is a great pic of the staging team. Each staging area needs to be scoped out before the run.  Is it big enough, how do we set up the platoon. Gives me a headache just thinking about it.
 
The escort is made up of several organizations: local, city state highway patrol.  
My understanding is that there is a waiting list for this detail.
Thanks to all the team!!!

 

One more team to mention is the hydration team.  
They got skids of items donated: water, Gatorade, snacks. 
They set up in most parking lots to keep us hydrated.
 
Having a little fun, making sure our hair was not sticking out from our hats before our pic.  
Looks pretty good to me.  What do you think?
 
One of the best parts of the escort was getting through Albuquerque with no other cars.  SWEET!!!

 

Heading to lunch, there is still snow in the mountains.
 
Getting gas before lunch.
Hey Rich Boy,  you are sitting down on the job!!
 
 
Heading into Santa Claran casino for lunch.  WOW there are a lot of casinos in NM.

 

 

 

 
 
Our escorts.  THANKS guys.
 

 

Now the best part of  the day. Angel Fire Vietnam Memorial and the ride to get there.
Enjoy the ride.
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Great reception!!

 

 

 

 

 

 
First thing you see is a Huey helicopter.  
It was used in Vietnam and placed here after it was decommissioned.
Google: 

Angel Fire Vietnam Veterans Memorial.

Victor David was a 1st Lieutenant in the US Marine Corps (B CO, 1st BN, 4th Marines, 3rd Marine Div) and was killed in Viet Nam in a battle/ ambush near Con Thien. Fifteen other soldiers lost their lives in this battle.
Following the death of their son, U.S. Marine Corps First Lieutenant Victor David Westphall III, Jeanne and Dr. Victor Westphall began construction of the Vietnam Veterans Peace and Brotherhood Chapel to honor the memory of their son and the sixteen men that died with him near Con Thien, South Vietnam on May 22, 1968.
 
*********************
 
Bricks are laid every year on Labor Day for any veteran.  

 

Scooter, one of our road guards, flew in this Huey and his name is on the inside.  
He was also able to be in it when it was decommissioned. 
 
 
Every Labor Day the RFTW family comes to lay bricks of family/friends that have served.
Today we will be laying 2 bricks that are very special to the Olson family.
Arthur Wayne Glover
Donald Richard Taylor
 
From Kirk newsletter:
On Friday, May 16, 2025 when we arrive at the Angel Fire Vietnam Memorial this year in New Mexico, on Day 3, we will lay two memorial bricks, just like we do every year over Labor Day Weekend when RFTW riders lay a few hundred bricks.  We will honor and remember Arthur Wayne Glover, from Harrisburg, PA and Donald Richard Taylor from Morristown, TN.  These men were also in the Army Security Agency in Saigon, and they were both killed on the same day during the same incident in 1964.  They were ages 24 and 21 when they were killed, and their names are on Panel 1E, Line 43 of the Vietnam Memorial Wall. 
 
Harland told this: In Vietnam, Harlan and the 2 gentlemen above went to watch a baseball game. Harlan decided he needed to leave and go write Janelle a letter.  She had written to him so much, he needed to reply.  (Remember there were no cell phones or internet)
After he left there was an explosive device that went off under the seats where they were watching the game.  Arthur and Donald were both killed. 

 

The bricks were escorted by 6 men.
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
Kim then played Amazing Grace and Taps on her bagpipes.  
You could  not even hear a bird chirping.
 
Angel Fire also has an exact replica of the Vietnam Wall that is in DC.
 
 
Judy (tail gunner of platoon 1) has a brother on the wall. He was one of the last names added.
The incident was over Laos a week after the treaty was signed.  
There is still a discrepancy as to his status.  His remains have not been recovered.
He is listed on the wall on the last panel.
 

Joseph A Matejov

 

 
 
If you look at the dates on this brick, there is no end date. 
Since Sgt. Matejob is MIA, it will remain like this.
 
 
From Williams AZ, you remember John McCoy. We found his name too.
 
 
There are other families on the Run that have family members on the wall.
 
Say their name, tell their stories, Never Forget.

Eagle Nest always serves a great dinner but the cake that Stacie Ewing makes every year is amazing.  She has been doing them for the past 15 years….. so good.

As the evening ended, my husband had me come out and look at the sky over the mountains.

Temps: 35-65

Route: I40,I25, Hwy285,Hwy 285,68,585,64

Miles:289

Quote of the day:

All gave some, some gave all

Posted on by

CR – May 15, 2025 – Day 2 To DC – Williams, AZ to Gallup, NM

May 15, 2025 – Day 2 To DC – Williams, AZ to Gallup, NM

Here are a few more of out Vietnam Veterans that are currently on the Run.

 

Harlan Olson with his Wife Janelle. He is the platoon leader of the Vietnam veterans

I served in the U. S. Army Security Agency from Jun 1962 to Jun 1965.  I took my agency train at Ft. Devens, MA for 11 months learning Morse code and radio direction finding training.  I was then stationed at Homestead Air Force near Miami, CL to monitor the Cuban and Russian communications.  After a few months I received orders to report to Davis Station on Tan Son Nhut air base outside of Saigon.  While there we monitored Viet Cong,and north Vietnamese radio transmissions.
Story….  My buddies and I used to go to the top of the Cariville hotel where there was a bar to enjoy a bottle or two of Bam mi Ba beer.  Just a couple years ago, our son Kirk had a business trip to Saigon.  He went to the exact place atop the Cariville to recreate the shot.  Pretty cool.
Mike Hodge – Little Big Mike

Enlisted in Marine Corps 12Dec67, stood on those yellow foot prints 1Feb68 after high school graduation. Sent to Nam with 3/1 Kilo Co in July promoted to Lance Corporal as a grunt and lost both legs to mortar fire in Thong Duc, 20 miles West of Da Nang on a firebase.

Injured 22Aug68 with 18 other Marines. Total of 6 weeks in Country.

Also 2 Marines were KIA as well.

***************************************

Today was a beautiful day in Williams.  Here are a few of the volunteers that provide us breakfast.  I love the banner.

As I walked over to the area for the morning meeting, Jenny said there was a lady I should talk to. Her name is Nina. Her father is John L McCoy.  She is a gold start daughter.  Her dad was a POW in WWII for 44 months. He continued his military service and served in Korea and in Vietnam.  He was killed in Vietnam when she was only 10.

She wears the necklaces all the time.
The top one is the Purple Heart and the second represents Gold Star family
We start the day with the Pledge of Allegiance…..
…. and prayer.

Every morning the Raffle Rousing (Ed and Tai) team has items for auction,  50-50, and other things.  This  is to raise money for the kids at Rainelle.  You will see more of that on Thursday next week.  The team has several quilts donated for auction.  Today was one I happened to make. Here is the winner today.  Thanks for the donation.

When were we in Ontario, the Elks asked if we carry a flag from them to the Wall.

We will have the missing man escorts carry this on every leg.

Another thing that we do is read a few bios for those MIA.  We then have a person carry the bio, think of them as the ride to DC and then place it and the wall.  They are not forgotten!!

 Kirk is reading this one of John McCoy. WOW….It was an amazing bio and several people needed  tissues for their allergies.

Nina came up and said what an honor this was for her and thanked us. Then said
“Say their name and they will not be forgotten”

For 7 years now, Larry and I have been working with Kentucky on a project.  They want to do something for the families of the MIA veterans from Kentucky.  They have a bag with the veteran’s name on it.  In there is a binder with blank pages and a POW flag.   As we travel cross country, we ask an FNG to get as many signatures as possible. This is later given to the families. It is letting them know that they are not forgotten.  The names are on the Sundial Vietnam Memorial we will see later on the Run.

Kelly on the left is the RFTW photographer.  He actually knows all the MIA veterans on the Sundial.

The gentleman on the right is the FNG that will carry it.  (Sorry did not get his name)  Thank you!!

There are currently 6 platoons with 2 wheels and 3 for trikes and bikes with trailers. The 2 wheel bikes rotate positions in the pack.  We were first yesterday and today we are 6.

Yesterday: 1,2,3,4,5,6

Today: 2,3,4,5,6,1

This makes for some good pics for the day.  Here is the first one.  NICE.  Check out all the trees.

Going to Williams there are pine trees. You can smell them as we head down the road.

This does not last long. Back to flat and boring.

 

Head into Winslow, located on the Historic Route 66

Anyone an Eagles fan. Remember the song “stand on the corner in Winslow AZ”.  Well here it is.

 

Get into Winslow AZ for a fuel stop. We parade thru town.

As we head to a gas stop just before Winslow, there is a 9-11 Memorial.  It has 2 pieces from the Twin Towers.  
Fun Fact:
I want to take a look at the fuel team and staging team.  They work together to get us thru a gas stop and back into our platoons.
This looks like pure chaos but it actually works. They can fuel 200 bikes in a matter of 15-20 minutes.  Really !! They bikes pull up side by side and the pump never stops.  You have to remember that most of the time you are only putting in 2-4 gallons.
Road Guard and fuel team work together.

It is called “Organized Chaos”

Each Bike has a number on it. That is the platoon number.

 At any point during the Run, the staging team knows which platoon they need to get to.

As we are waiting to hit the road again, there is a lady that has helped vets all her life.

I believe she helps with service dogs. (sorry not totally sure).
She was hanging out this card and thought it was worth sharing.
To continue the staging/fueling team….everyone is ready to roll…

You then have to have a starter to make sure the platoons are in the right order.

Thanks John…. you are doing great!!!

Heading to Holbrook for lunch.

I think we pass every school they have.  Check out all the kids!!!

Lunch at the American Legion is always good and entertaining.

The Star Spangled Banner is sung by an 18 year old senior.  WOW what a voice.
Then came the dancers.  Look at the colors of their outfits (not called a costume, that is for Halloween)
One more stop for the day.  Anyone getting tired yet?
On the road.
Gallup is know at the “Most Patriotic  small town in the USA”.  We traveled 14 miles thru town with 100s of people waving.  14 MILES!!!

I wish I could have taken more pics but I just sat back and enjoyed all the people.  (Really my batteries died…. hahaha)

 
We get to the  Red Rock Park and look at the people!!!  
I thought going thru town was a lot of people.
They start about noon and chant and pray for us until we arrive.  Then they ask us to join them in the circle carrying flags.  Leading this is a Code Talker.
Fun Fact:
The Navajo people were very important to helping the US Marine Corps because of the Code Talkers.
Code Talkers are people in the 20th century who used obscure languages as a means of secret communication during wartime. The term is now usually associated with the United States soldiers during the world wars who used their knowledge of native American languages as a basis to transmit coded messages. In particular, there were approximately 400–500 Native Americans in the US Marine Corps whose primary job was the transmission of secret tactical messages. Code talkers transmitted these messages over military telephone or radio communications nets using formal or informally developed codes built upon their native languages.
Dinner and the day is finally over.
Thanks again for all the prayers.  Weather has been great and the people we have met and reconnected with are amazing.

 

Temps: 36-65

Route: I40

Miles: 224

Quote of the Day:

 

Home of the free, because of the brave