May 17, 2020 – Day 5 – Goodland, KS to Junction City, KS
Sunday start is a little later than normal. There is a non-denominational Church service. The place is packed.
Curtis, our head chaplain, and a few other chaplains give a great Sunday service. A great way to start the day.
Chaplains ride all the way with us. Remember this is a healing mission. And many of our chaplains are there to help out veterans.
This is part of the advanced road guard team. These guys are the ones at exit ramp, turns in roads, help out in the gas stops….and so much more to get things set up before the pack gets there.
I got a good look at the staging team in action for a small parking space. About 350 bikes per parking lot.
Steve has a booklet with every parking lot with its dimension. There are over 50 lots. That is a lot of planning
We have 12-13 platoons. One platoon is bikes and trailers, so they need more space. 2 platoons are 3-wheel bikes. So now try and figure out how to combine all of them. The ideal situation is for a big enough parking lot to have them next to each other. But when you have a street that is narrow, you have to line them up back to back.
Star Spangle Banner is played and accompanied
There were new covered picnic table. They moved them to the side of the building to block the wind. Remember we are in KS
Here is one amazing bridge that we were able to visit. WOW
They even had the motorcycles on the entrance and exit ramps with flags.
They had lots of kids. One told me he had a motorcycle and it was blue. I ask him if he wore a helmet and he said yes. He grandpa is a state trooper. Thanks grandpa for your service. Have I said yet that it only takes a few seconds to shake a hand and say thanks to a veteran or our current service men and women.
The picture of the bridge with all the flags is amazing. Think about the time it takes to organize all these people.
Heading into Junction City…. WOW always a welcome. This is how the pack comes into a city: American flag, POW/MIA and then state flag: Kansas Flags.
There is always a service at the KS Vietnam Veterans Memorial
Kansas Vietnam Veterans Memorial
It is constructed of 7 black granite panels and stands 13 feet tall and 46 feet long. Four of the panels bear the names of 753 Kansans killed in action in Vietnam. Another panel displays the names of 38 Kansans who were still missing in action in 1987 from the southeast Asian war. Two military decorations, the Purple Heart and the Vietnam Campaign ribbon are also engraved on the panel with the MIAs. The remaining two panels depict two soldiers in larger-than-life size.
Taps are played with a second bugle echo. AMAZING…. darn I did forget my tissues again.
May 15, 2020 – Day 3 To DC – Gallup, NM to Eagle Nest, NM
This is the part of the trip we end up in Eagle Nest, NM. And visit Angel Fire memorial.
This is a typical sight every morning. It is a sea of bikes.
Early in the morning and people still come out to wish us well. These are the people we will miss.
As I mentioned earlier, the meals are all supplied. So too are the gas stop paid. This one by Thunderbird Harley Davidson.
New Mexico is a state we have a complete escort across the state. Here are the LEOs lined up and ready to go. There are state, city, county….. officers engaged to get us through. So many people support the Run. Thanks all, we will be back next year.
The Run donates to several schools along the way. They have a big influence to the younger generation.
The 2 buses are from the kids of Cochiti. Several years ago, the school was trying to get the kids more energized about learning. So, there was an incentive idea. If you have perfect attendance, get good grades and have good behavior, you could ride the bus to stand on the bridge to see RFTW go thru. The first year there was 20 kids. Now check out the bridge. Soon they will have to make a bigger bridge. They also have to rent the bus to get there. To do that, the kids would have bake sales and other events to raise the money. Great lessons. This year they have 2 buses and check out how many kids are there. Again a very poor part of the country. If you have earned the honor to go on the bus in May, around Labor Day, Jenny, Ken and a few other RFTW member go back to the school and the kids get RFTW pins. They love it. Last few years, the school struggled to get enough money for school supplies. RFTW was able to take money to help the school out. The people there were so grateful.
In 2018, another school, Santo Domingo joined in. They too have had great response from the kids. Looks like the same pic as the one above but it is not. Last year, they only had 1 bus. Way to go kids!
Great facility for lunch. Again, all volunteers and very supportive of our veterans.
Road heading up to Angel Fire is breath taking. It is a gorgeous ride.
As we get to Angel Fire Vietnam Memorial, the wind is normally pretty strong. It sits on top of a hill.
Angel FireVietnam Memorial
The purpose of the David Westphall Veterans Foundation is to honor America’s veterans and members of its military forces by memorializing the sacrifices they have made and by recognizing the sense of duty and the courage they have displayed as they answered their country’s call to arms.
The memorial was begun by Victor and Jeanne Westphall, the grief-stricken parents of MarineFirst Lieutenant David Westphall, who was among sixteen young men in his unit killed in an ambush on May 22, 1968 in Vietnam.
In September 2018, we were able to attend the ceremony for the brick laying. Friends or family can purchase the brick for a friend or family member to remember them for their service.
Here is an example of the bricks. There were about 400 bricks last year.
The memorial maintains a UH-1D model Huey helicopter, known originally as “Viking Surprise,” one of the first smoke ships used in Vietnam. On March 26, 1967, the helicopter, while rescuing service personnel, was so badly damaged – 135 bullet holes – that it was returned to the United State for repairs. The copter returned to Vietnam and was later sent to the New Mexico National Guard, which donated it to the Angel Fire memorial. (Sidenote; Our Very own Scooter (Kenny Keelin/ Road Guard/Scout) Flew this Helicopter before it was retired.)
Food here is all homemade. I wayyyy over eat here. I want to try a little bit of everything!
They always have the most interesting cakes. Yes, this is a cake and it tasted awesome!!!!
Food here is all homemade. I wayyyy over eat here. I want to try a little bit of everything!
The town has a population of about 300. When we roll in, we double that. We will be here next year.
May 14, 2020 – Day 2 To DC – Williams, AZ to Gallup, NM
Williams mornings are always cool and most of the time sunny. Stagers are on duty at every stop we have. Bikes lined up and ready to go.
This is Jim Sloan, aka Sweeper, and Jenny Ward, aka Lady Jen. Jim drives the truck after the last platoon. As the pack gets on the highway, we travel only 35 MPH. This allows everyone to get on the road and get together before going at highway speed. Jim lets the route coordinator know when all the bikes are on the expressway. Then we pick up speed.
The mayor John Moore is in the cowboy hat. He and his son donate breakfast in the morning and has done this for many years. Did I mention that from the time we leave Ontario until we get to DC, breakfast, lunch and dinners are provided to us by the communities of the cities we visit. Unbelievable!!! Last year was Sausage and gravy.
We always welcome the FNGs (First time riders). There are over half.
As we leave William, I always remember the beautiful pine trees.
This is a sight we see as we leave Williams. Beautiful mountains.
Next, we head to Holbrook, AZ. Normally Holbrook has every kid out of school when we roll thru. This year the kids are all home.
The American Legion Post 37 serves us lunch. The high school kids have a small band that play music for us. I guess they will have another year to practice.
As we head into New Mexico the land changes drastically. Beautiful!!
Next stop is Gallup, NM. There is 13 miles to our destination for the ceremony from the Native Americans. Normally there are people that line the street, all the way. I understand why they are called the “Most Patriotic Small Town In the USA”.
As we arrive, we hear them chatting and playing drums. They have been since noon. This is for our safety in our travels.
I always loving coming into Gallup. The native Americans welcome us. Most of the RFTW riders join in. What an amazing ceremony. What an amazing city!
There is a 21 gun salute. Then “Taps”. As many years as I have been on the Run, I still get tears every time I hear it. Where are the tissues?
This is Gunnery Sergeant P.J. James. He represents the Code Talker during WWII. The name code talker is strongly associated with bilingual Navajo speakers specially recruited during World War II by the Marines to serve in their standard communications units in the Pacific Theater. The enemy could not break the code.
My name is Jean, aka Mama G. I was the Sit Rep Writer for the Central Route in 2019. I was supposed to have the same position in2020.
This year we will try to do a virtual blog based on the Run from the last several years.
Every year there are hundreds of volunteers to get all get everyone cross country safely. I thought I would give you definition of roles people play to get us cross country to DC. I have also listed the number of how many for each. Here is the list and remember these are all volunteers.
TEAMS (ahead of the pack)
Advanced road guard – 10 = first to go out and confirm there are no issues on the roads. Ex: detours, traffic issues, … even have been known to clear some debris off the road to keep us safe. They will also be the ones at all road exchanges, so everyone makes the turns.
Staging – 26 = Get to the next stop ahead of the pack and set up for each platoon to be staged.
Fuel – 26 = They get to the gas station and clear all pump for the platoons to come in. There is no one at the gas pump when we arrive. They, along with the road guards, direct the pack how to get to the pumps and leaving the pumps
Ambassador – 15 = Thanking the people on the bridges or in the towns for coming out and supporting the Run.
Hydration – 8 – They carry water, Gatorade, snack and are at every gas stop. All donated by someone or organization
Registration – 8 = In every city, they are there when we arrive, and every morning before we leave. Since not everyone can ride 10 days, many will ride only a few day. This team gets them signed up.
Merchandise team – 2 = travels with the Run selling t-shirts and other trinkets
State coordinator – Total 20 for the length of the run. Usually 1 -2 per state.
The Pack Formation:
Missing man- Route Coordinator (RC) , state coordinator, person representing the missing man, missing man coordinator, chaplain
Road guard – 30-35 = they have many jobs: stop traffic on all entrance ramps, guides us thru towns at each intersection, help direct at fuel stops, and whatever it takes to keep us safe.
6 pack – 6-8 = Assistant Route coordinator (ARC), mentor (this is the RC from last year), leadership (Jenny, Lee Larry and Jean), any dignitary, …. this changes daily. Could be the mayor, POW… we never know who will be there leg to leg.
Platoons – 15-25 = each platoon has a platoon leader, assistant platoon leader and 2 tail gunners. In the middle are all the participants. There are usually 10-20 platoons
Communication team – 3 – talk to truckers and 1 in back of the pack.
Medical team – 6 – there for any injuries or illnesses
Chaplains – 8 = this is a very key role. Many are on this for healing. Many remember comrades lost in war. This is a very emotional trip for everyone.
Last man – 1 – conveys to RC when the last bike is on the road/ expressway
Sit Rep Reporter – 1 – This person gives a summary of the day
Chase vehicles – 4 to 5 = They have trailer and will pick up anyone running out of gas (yes this does happen) or break downs.
===============
Totals:
If you add all this up, it is around 160 people that have roles
Participants = 15-25 per platoon – so 200-250
At any given time, we are at 350-450 riding as a unit.
Additional Terms:
Blue Star Family – a family with a member currently serving in the Armed Forces of the United States
Gold Star – family member that has died during a Military Operation
“Gunny” Gregory (Founder) and his wife “Patty-o” are always around. He never forgets a face. Great Couple!!!!
The few days prior to leaving is like a great big family reunion. It is always great to connect with all those we rode with years prior!!
All 3 routes meet in the Convention center parking lot. This is truly an organized chaos. The people holding the numbers are the stagers…this is how it gets organized. Each biker gets into the platoon that the registration team assigned them to. This way the platoons are about the same size. Their job is important as we have people being added and leaving every day.
Check out all the bikes. There are about 1000 by the time we leave.
Every year there are many volunteers that show up to cook breakfast. They have a good ole time.
This is Eamon and Terri Tansey. Eamon served in the Australian army during Vietnam War. He was the route coordinator in 2019. Eamon will be the Mentor on the next Run.
Tom Miller will be the Route Coordinator. Tom has been the road guard captain for at many years. He always has a great smile!!
Jean (Sit Rep Reporter) and my husband, Larry, aka Clutch.
At the start of every day is morning pray and the Pledge. This one was amazing.!!!!
Ok Saddle up!!!!! All routes will leave at the same time, then split down the road.
The flag is flying every year as we exit the parking lot. Lots of well wishers as we leave Ontario.
Here are some examples.
Amazing. The patriotism.
First day is one of the longest days of the route. It is about 400 miles. People of Needles are always working hard to give us a great lunch. It is always in the 100s when we role in. They always have plenty of cold water and Gatorade, and ICE CREAM for dessert!!
Head out over the Colorado river into Arizona. Beautiful pic of this country.
Next fuel stop is Kingman, AZ. We are always greeted like this!!! Check this out.
See the pine trees. This is how we know we are getting close to Williams AZ. They smell so good.
Williams is a small town with a great reception. Love to see the kids engaged. This is our future.
Dinner here is at the American Legion. Unlike lunch, it is normally pretty cold by the time we get there. They have great Pulled pork and lots of home-made dessert. Definitely can start gaining weight from day one.
It was a beautiful day. Started at 65and hit the mid 80s. Since only FNGs can ride into Arlington Cemtary, we needed to get there and walk to the Tomb of the Unknow Soldier for the laying of the wreath. If you have ever been, you will see field after field like this.
Soldiers placed nearly a quarter-million U.S. flags at Arlington National Cemetery on Thursday as part of a Memorial Day tradition. The event is known as “flags in.” More than 230,000 marble headstones line the landscape of the cemetery across 624 acres.
The RFTW team is given instruction for layingto the wreath.
Changing of the guards. If you ever go to DC, please take time to see this.
RFTW heads to the Lincoln Memorial for a group shot.
There are thousand of bikes all over the grass fields. This is only one of them
Gunny taking pics of the crowd.
Looking from the top step of the Lincoln Memorial.
OH MY!!!!!
Once the pic is complete, the RFTW riders head for the wall. You see many member tracing names of family and friends
If you remember, there were lots of bios read and people carried them across the country. Names were found on the wall.
Then you see many of them placed under their name.
The 3 rout coordinators lay the RFTW at the Apex of the Wall.
Once an FNG has completed their mission, their FNG pin is turned upside down.
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
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 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 31-104
– We traveled in 14 states + Washington DC
– From Loveland, OH to Ontario, CA to DC – 5619 miles
– Thanks for all the thoughts and prayer, NO hail this year and very little rain.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 bracelet, making
pocket patches, hanging flags on the over passes, closing down streets,
organizing volunteer for meal, 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, coordinated with all the
towns for escorts, gas stops, parking, …. involve so many volunteers.
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 day. Here are my last two:
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
On the Run, we said the Pledge every day. I see this 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!!!
I especially want to thank my husband for such an incredible journey.
One more set of prayer 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:
Proud to be an American
(by: Lee Greenwood)
If tomorrow all the things were gone
I’d worked for all my life
And I had to start again
With just my children and my wife
I’d thank my lucky stars
To be living here today
Cause the flag still stands for freedom
Andthey can’t take that away
And I’m proud to be an American
Where at least I know I’m free
And I won’t forget the men who died
Who gave that right to me
And I gladly stand up
Next to you and defend her still today
Cause there ain’t no doubt I love this land
God bless the USA.
From the lakes of Minnesota
To the hills of Tennessee
Across the plains of Texas
From sea to shining sea From Detroit down to Houston,
Amazing, wonderful gorgeous, beautiful…. is how I describe the day. It was 65 when we got up. And no rain. YEAH!!! Eamon gives us a run down of the legs for the day. He tells us at lunch, a Harley dealer will host it. He said the Harley dealers are very generous and will even let the Honda riders eat there. The ribbing between the Harley and Honda has be here since day 1. LOL
If you remember Shawn bought this in the auction. It was made by Skeeter’s wife. Ross the head road guard and Skeeter were very close so Shawn and the road guards gave this to Ross in Skeeters honor. It is made of the Run shirts from prior years.
Last morning to stage and head on out. It is a sea of helmets.
Before we get too much further on the day, I would like to tell you about 2 other teams:
1) Outreach Team.
This team will visit Gold Start families. They will normally reach about 30 per year.They will go to the family and as they get there , each team member introduces themselves. They will express their condolences for their loss and thank them for service and sacrifice to their country. The Pledge of Allegiance is said and a RFTW pin is given to the family members. There is also a Gold Star patch and a certificate of appreciation from RFTW. A green bracelet is also give as a symbol of hope. They will pray with them and many times cry with them. Thanks you Outreach for your time with our Gold Star families.
2) Road guards. They are our guardian angels and try to keep us safe. Like putting a bubble around us. They will stop the entrance ramps, help cars and trucks get past the pack, stage at all interchanges, direct us thru gas stops. I will have several pics for you of what they do thru this post.
Little bit of fog but what beautiful country.
Here are
several pics from the day. You know me, got to get some last time scenery
pics in. We have such a beautiful country with all kinds of
landscapes. Hope you have liked them.
Because of our FREEDOM, I am able to do this.
Here a road guard is signaling the traffic to move over a lane to give the pack a chance to get on highway. Remember, we start on the highway at only 35 MPH until the last man is on the highway.
Lunch at Harley dealer. Great venue.
Some were able to find a little shade.
Look at the amount of trucks and people on this bridge. It takes time and effort to pull this off. So may be 30 minutes. We had someone stand on the bridge today and they times the pack. It was less than 5 minutes. This is truly a sign on the supports have for our troops.
About 72 miles from DC,we get a police escort .
Last gas stop, Rick said he lost his hat…. I believe I saw it heading down the road in the high speed lane
Last time you will have to stage guys…. nice work. By about day 10 in think you have it downpat.
Ron tries his hand at being a road guard. Not bad and Diesel was ready to let him do it all day.
The fuel team singed a hat for Terri gives to her. LOL
Road guards have to recycle to the front. On the left are 2 road guards working their way back up to the front of the pack.
As we see
the miles to Arlington get lower and lower, I realize our mission is almost
complete. I also think of all the troops still deployed all over this
world. I pray that some day they will be able to count down the number of days they will be home.
Stopping an entrance ramp. Thanks road guards.
Gunny is there to greet us as we come in.
The crowd cheers as we pull into the parking lot. Remember how our Vietnam troops were treated when they got home. Remember it only takes a few seconds to THANK a veteran, active service person, police or fireman for their service. And it you remember, if you thank a Vietnam vet , Tell them “WELCOM HOME”.
This is our road guard crew. They are amazing men and women.
I will have one more post tomorrow before completing this years mission. The FNGs get to ride into Arlington on the bikes. This is a very rare privilege. I hope to get some great shots.
Temps: 65-95
Route: I-64 E, I-81N, I-66E
Miles: 254
Today is the day we go to Rainelle to see the kids. This is the school we have raised all the money for. Last day for he military and platoon challenges, last day for auction….
Every day before we leave for our platoon meetings , Eamon leaves us with 2 things: 1) They shall not grow old as we who are left behind grow old
Age shall not weary them nor the years condemn
At the going down of the sun and in the morn
We shall remember them
Lest we forget
2) HOW FAR ARE WE GOING? ALL THE WAY!!!!
We go to the parking lot today and Tom, the ARC’s bike is covered. Tom was he head road guard captain for year. As a rookie road guard, you get your bike trashed at some point on the trip.
I guess they put the rookie up to it.. LOL
Random people will stop and salute the Run. They know what it is all about and respect it.
Stuck in traffic heading into Charleston we go past a school bus. They we scream and waving…
UGH…. traffic on a bike is not much fun but we did make it.
This young man has been standing every year on this same block for RFTW since he was one. He is now 16. He stands there the whole time the bikes are rolling in.
His sister, mom and grandma
His grandmother worked in one of the building at 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 50 years. I admire the women who have stated with their husband from the Vietnam War. They too have suffered. Many of our soldiers have changed and have problems with coping yet they have stated with them Thanks ladies. This goes also for any women that served. Thanks guys for sticking with your wives. Here is her husband.
Packed around the capital. Bikes everywhere. Here is an example that Steve has to lay out to make sure we all fit. We are in multiple lots. This is like a jigsaw puzzle.
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
We move back to the Step to get a group shot of the Central Route. Pretty many people.
Got a good laugh at this one.
She is all of 23. She has no idea yet…. her life is just beginning and she will have many tomorrows.
“We have tomorrows because of them.”
This gentleman we running around on a scooter. He said he could not run with us, not enough gears.
He stood as we started out. He was a little unsteady but remained strong.
As we head to Rainelle, there are people all along the 35+ miles.
The road is great. Beautiful West Virginia windy roads. Enjoy the ride and the people out there supporting us.
Yeah finally made it.
Definitely worth the wait. Wish you could have heard them.
Now that we have stopped, and put kickstands down, we can go see the kids. They want OUR autograph. Pretty funny. Most of us have brought trinkets, pens, pins…. to give the kids. It is like Halloween. Enjoy the pics.
This lady is the daughter of the police chief that back in 1989, he started the veterans parade with Gunny. She wants her son from the time he is born to be able to participate in this day.
This lady was 1 when the first riders came thru. She has not missed one and she does not what her kids to either. Amazing…
Kim is the principle. She is exstatic about the amount of money that RFTW has donated. Just a side note. RFTW also bought every child a coat, hat and glove when a flood struck.
Several of the elementary kids sang for the riders. Here is part of the song:
What do you say to a hero?
Someone who is always there.
We can say Thank You.
Or we can say Thank You, Thank You..…
Oh my, no one told me I needed a tissue for today.
You prayer warriors are spectacular!! What a great day!! Temps started at 73 and no rain. Even in the afternoon it went to 94 but there was a nice cloud cover. Great riding weather.
Lance is our Raffle Rouser. The hat he has in his hand was auctioned off. So as you remember, all the money goes to the kids of Rainelle, WV. The guys had a lot of fun with this Bush Boys hat. There is a group of guys from KY that are on the Run. They had it made, figuring they would maybe get $20. Well, 2 of the brothers were bidding again each other and others chipped in to help each beat the other brother…. top bid…. $170… Seriously!! every one was laughing.
Jenny looked at them…. are they crazy… but all going for the kids.
Here is another quilt that was auction. It was gorgeous and made of several old RFTW t-shirts.
Pledge, prayer and a few words from Eamon. We break into platoons for their morning meetings.
On the road… and they are already on the bridges at 7:30
Cross the Ohio River and into Kentucky.
We head through Louisville, and we have the highway closed about 8:00. This is rush hour and being it is a big city, there are hundreds of cars. Lee , our KY state coordinator, worked with the LEOs and had the highways close for us to get thru. I would guess there were a lot of people late for work.
On our way to Robley Rex, we get a gap in the pack. Needless to say they took a wrong turn. Kirk and another road guard SAVED THE DAY….. wow that sound like superman. Do not let Kirk hear that. This is now called the Robley Rex Run Around. They went to the next exit and flipped around and got there only about 10 minutes later. You have to remember, there are hundreds of bike. You cannot just stop. It I like a freight train. You need to give it plenty of time to get it stopped. Thanks you guys.
We arrive at Robley Rex VA Hospital and are greeted with open arms. They love when the Run comes thru. The patients love it and cannot wait til we get here.
The Robley Rex VA Medical Center is an active,
affiliated acute care and outpatient facility located on a 47-acre hilltop near
downtown Louisville and overlooking the Ohio River. The medical
center also operates three community based outpatient
clinics in the greater Louisville area. These clinics make VA services more
accessible for veterans residing in the Kentucky area.
Rex Robley was born in Hopkinsville, Kentucky, and
enlisted in the military in May, 1919, six months after the Armistice date. He
severed 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 Veteran’s 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.
Billy with 3 of the nurses. They do so much for our veterans. Thanks ladies.
The Pledge of Allegiance is said. Oh my gosh the number of veteran is amazing.
We were able to visit several of the patients. They are always so excited to see us come in and love to hear the sound of the motorcycles as we pull in.
This gentleman served in Navy from 1964 to 1967. He was on the USS Yorktown. He put the aircraft on the elevators to get to them up on deck. They put inappropriate notes on the bombs. He just smiled from ear to ear. I can only imagin what they wrote. 😁😁😁
This gentleman served in the Army from1976-1979. It was the end of the Vietnam war. Back then, no one would talk about it. It was a war that they did not want to be in and then were treated purely when they returned. This is his son with him. He was a very grateful we stopped. And thanked us for doing the Run.
Before you leave , you have to see Popcorn Billy. He is famous in the hospital, and he love the girls, just ask him.
The gentleman to his left served with “Popcorn” Billy. He gave me the story on Billy. The 2 here 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 attach on a helicopter unit. Billy’s brother died in this attach and Billy was wounded. Ever since he has been helping all the people can. The name “popcorn” came because he makes popcorn and sells it then donates the proceed. He buys all the supplies. Always smiling and likes hugs!!
Here is one of our road guards taking a breather. They work really hard keeping us safe.
Ready to role.
Lee way to go getting the over passes covered.
We are on the roads for so many days that we miss our families. Lee’s family visited him at a gas stop. So cute.
This is Becca, one of our Medical personal. Thanks Becca for your hard work. Also she is from Alaska. WOW!!!
Heading to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial we still have the highway closed for us.
As we arrive, several members from the Cincinnati Harley chapters greet us. Great to see everyone. Thanks for making the trip.
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. Kentucky’s 23 MIAs are listed behind the sundial so
its shadow never falls on their names. Some have been found since this was build. 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 ever get a chance to go see it, go. It is amazing and an engineering marvel.
Now flying the Kentucky flag.
WOW!!! This is on an overpass.
We come into Mt. Sterling and what a reception. Here all the kids are out waving flags and screaming. So neat.
As we pull into the Clay Community Center, this big guy is greeting us.
That last leg was very hot. Coming into the center , that was air conditioned felt sooo good.
See is only take a few second to say “Thanks for your service”. Not only should you do it for our service men and women, you should also do it for our police and firemen. They have your back on a closer level.
Jackie and Ron are both mayors.How cool is that to have active mayors riding all the way on the Run
After lunch, I too a few pics as we rolled thru KY into WV. Then sat back and just enjoyed the beauty. Enjoy the ride with me.
Then I saw this. Look at the size!!! This is on a bridge.
Next we heard this load noise. One of the riders at dinner told me he thought there was something wrong with his bike. Nope, it was a helicopter escorting us into Hurricane , WV which is our ending destination for the night. Pretty cool.
It was pretty low.
Arrive in Hurricane.
WOW!!! I think have said this now 3 time in this post.
We are singing the Star Spangle Banner. I will never get tired of the respect we have.
This is the couple from Italy I wrote about on May 19. You are amazing for coming so far.
Thanks and welcome to the RFTW family.
Since we just came off the bikes in 90 degree weather, this felt amazing.
Here is the Huey the flew over us.
Tomorrow we visit the kids at Rainelle. Since the begin of the Run we have been collecting money for the schools in that town. It was one of the first school “Gunny” Gregory stopped at on his first run from CA of DC in 1989. I am told that these bikers gave the kids a ride on their bikes. Really, bikers , black leather … and kids. This friendship has been there for 31 years and thru many generations.
Temps: 73-94
Route: I-64E
Miles: 252
Quotes: (2 for today)
Honoring the past, inspiring the future
Please tell
him he is more than just a name on a wall
Today we woke up to no rain. That was great since it poured last night.
Before we start, I need to apologize. A few days ago I said there was no Gold Star families. We do have one riding with his. Thank you for the service and thank you for riding with us.
Also thanks to all the blue star families riding with us, we have several.
As we come into the parking to stage, this is what I see. I just started laughing. This is the perfect day for this. It is day 7, people are getting a little tire of getting up at 4 AM and being away from family. This really put a smiles on a lot of face.
It is a very calm morning. We started to say the pledge and then there was a slight breeze. The flag started waving and seemed to be saying: It will be a good day , I will be there with you.
Eamon has bios on several of our veteran that are MIA or KIA. The pages are then read allowed and he asks for someone to carry them to the wall. We need to bring them all home.
Gomez said he was tired so Larry and Lee picked him up. Laughing the whole time.
Heading out with our Escorts.
Heading down he road. I am not sure they left from last night.
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.”
The high school bad was outstanding, but they were in shorts!! It was 50 degrees. Oh yeah they are young.
Group photo. WOW!!!
As we headed back to the bikes, I see this lady. She served in the Navy in 1955. I wanted to talk more to her but we were saddling up. If you are not on your bike they will not wait, you get left.
Back on the road to head to Jefferson Barracks.
Jefferson Barrack
This is the Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery and Health Care Facility
Burial in a national cemetery is open to all members of the armed forces who have met a
minimum active duty service requirement and were discharged under conditions
other than dishonorable.
VA St. Louis Health Care System is a full-service health care facility providing inpatient and ambulatory care
in medicine, surgery, psychiatry, neurology, and rehabilitation, as well as
over 65 subspecialty areas. It is a two-division facility that serves veterans
and their families in east central Missouri and southwestern Illinois.
The Jefferson Barracks Military Post
is located on the Mississippi River at Lemay, Missouri, south of St. Louis. It
was an important and active U.S. Army installation from 1826 through 1946. It
is the oldest operating U.S. military installation west of the Mississippi
River, and it is now used as a base for the Army and Air National Guard. A
Veterans Affairs healthcare system campus is located on the southern portion of
the base
As we went in, they were tables with all kinds of goodies. They were so excited to see us. Several of the riders were able to talk to the veterans.
Heading over the Mississippi River to Mt. Vernon.
We could see the Arch in St. Louis. It was pretty overcast all day so tough to see. This was fine.
At least no rain!!
More pics of over passes and some of this beautiful country.
At a fuel stop, I was talking to Shawn, one of the road guards. He rides with this bear. He said that a person from Limon wanted it carried to the wall, so he said he would take it. He sat it on the back of his bike. Tom (ARC) came by and said ” You know you give road guards a bad image” Ha ha.
Shawn proceed to tell him that he has already had 8 people tell him, they were getting tired and tense on the road. But when he drove past them, the arms seemed to be clapping, and it really helped them get thru the day.” So the person in Limon, never knew a little stuffed animal would help so many.
Now in Mt. Vernon IL for lunch. Star Spangle Banner was sung, 21 gun salute and tap.
They had the best chicken…. and a huge parking lot.
Heading to Corydon, IN. Seeing a lot of green and the sun came out. It is getting pretty warm. YEAH!!
As we get off the exit, Martha and Harry are there.
The Indiana flags lead us in.
Another great reception. Lots of kids.
This poor little guy. He looked excited and waved his flag, but I guess all the noise bothered him a little.
Corydon fixes us a great fish dinner. They needed a lot of fish to feed this crew.
We are now back on Eastern time. Funny thing I over heard today, I do not care what time zone we are in, just will someone tell me the current time so I am not late tomorrow.
Temp: 50-82
Route: I-255 , I-64E
Total Miles: 315
Quote for the day: Please tell him he is more than just a name on a wall
NOTICE: Previous year’s route itineraries are provided as archival reference/examples only. Specific details including exact route, stops, hotels, etc are dynamic and change from year to year. Current year route itineraries are typically released in March. Only the current year Route Itinerary should be used to plan your trip.
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NOTICE: Previous year’s route itineraries are provided as archival reference/examples only. Specific details including exact route, stops, hotels, etc are dynamic and change from year to year. Current year route itineraries are typically released in March. Only the current year Route Itinerary should be used to plan your trip.
NOTICE: Previous year’s route itineraries are provided as archival reference/examples only. Specific details including exact route, stops, hotels, etc are dynamic and change from year to year. Current year route itineraries are typically released in March. Only the current year Route Itinerary should be used to plan your trip.
NOTICE: Previous year’s route itineraries are provided as archival reference/examples only. Specific details including exact route, stops, hotels, etc are dynamic and change from year to year. Current year route itineraries are typically released in March. Only the current year Route Itinerary should be used to plan your trip.
