Category: Midway Route Coordinator News

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Midway Route Coordinator Newsletter – June 2025

RFTW Rider Survey

I arrived home in southern California 10 days ago and it seems like yesterday.

Welcome home to all and “Happy Father’s Day”. Can you believe how fast time is just flying by.

Wind Dog

This year’s run leaves me with so many fond memories. Some of profound joy of seeing old friends and meeting new ones and some of Immense sadness of loss and maybe the realization that time stands still for no one. But before I expound on these feelings and more let me express my profound gratitude to your 2025 Leadership team. The leaders and their respective teams worked tirelessly since the end of 2024 to ensure your experience in 2025 would be enlightening, memorable and healing for many. These volunteers were State Coordinators, Road Guards, Missing Man Coordinator, Platoon Coordinator, Platoon Leaders, Asst Platoon Leaders, Tail Gunners, Financial services, Risk Management, Photographer, Sit rep writers, Hotel/Camping Coordinator, RC assistants and the many individuals from our local communities that welcomed us and fed us all across this country.

I would be remiss if I did not single out some individuals who went above and beyond in supporting me and giving me the ability to make this year’s run meaningful, fun, healing and hopefully a memory you will cherish and share with your children and grandchildren in the future.

Jerry Wilkins was not only my mentor this year, he was also the Midway routes California state coordinator, hotel coordinator and camping coordinator. Thank you, Jerry for keeping me “On Track” and providing sage guidance daily. You were always there for me

Sue “Odds” Chapin became my guiding light starting on day one. She always was ready to help with anything I needed assistance with including being the platoon leader for the leadership support platoon and became the Missing Man Coordinator when that position became vacant. “Thank you, Sue”

“Java Joe” Bookataub not only was instrumental in developing a program that daily recognized our Vietnam veterans but also did a magnificent job at leading all platoon leadership and stepped up to be the Arizona state coordinator.

Lastly, I would like to recognize Alan “Rocketman” Farmer who stepped up and became my “Chief of Staff” when I lost our Assistant route coordinator. Alan seamlessly moved up beside me in the missing man formation and assisted me with guiding the entire pack daily through the last 6 days of this year’s run. I could not have done as well as we did without his recommendations, guidance and obvious leadership skills. Thank You, Alan for a “JOB WELL DONE”

Collectively, I hope the leadership teams made 2025 memorable and reinforced the true purpose and focus of just what in life is worth fighting for. We hope that you always remember that life is truly about “The Mission”

Please remember that we are always trying to make next years’ experience better and that is why the After-Action Reports (AAR’S) are very important. I have received many already and I want to assure you that they are read by not only me but by the Board of Directors. I have already made a list of items from your submissions to be discussed at our next directors’ meeting. You can find AAR’S on the Midway page, second from the bottom on the scroll down menu. Please take this opportunity to tell me how we did this year. The Good, the bad and the ugly.

Wind Dog
Looks like someone got a much-needed haircut and beard trim.

My personal story was told on an early RFTW Podcast titled “Midway is in my soul”. It tells my story of healing from years of survivors’ guilt and the years of substance abuse and avoiding thinking about my honorable service.

Each year I visit my brothers and tell them how life has been for me. Out of the 8 on this portion of the wall, one is my personal hero. He stopped a bullet that was meant for me. He gave his life so others could enjoy the freedoms provided by a free nation.

His name is Larry Looby and went through recruit training, advanced Infantry training and shipped to Vietnam with me. We were in every sense other than biological, brothers. I lost my brother to a gunshot wound, in battle. It tore a hole in my soul and was a large reason that I did not want to see his name engraved on that black granite wall.

This run, this marvelous experience of meeting the many patriots across this great nation afforded me the courage to finally go see Larry and the others.

It saddens me to hear that our continued armed conflicts are afflicting our warriors with same guilt as I suffered and is potentially causing us to lose them at a rate of 20 -22 a day.

If our combined efforts can save even a few, it was well worth the time, effort and money.

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

It was my honor to lead the Midway route across this great country this year. I look forward to seeing you all next year.

Lastly, remember that we had a road guard go down this year. He has a very long road to recovery.   Please keep Pace “Pawkee” Bonner in your thoughts and prayers.

“IS IT MAY YET”

Ed “Wind Dog” Brundage
Midway Route Coordinator 2025
Advanced Team Lead 2023 – 2024
Fuel Team Lead, Assist Team lead, Team Member 2015 – 2022
Central Route 2009 – 2013
FNG 2008

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Midway Route Coordinator Newsletter – May 2025

RFTW Rider Survey

Midway Family, May is here!!!!!!!

We are now just 12 Days from KSU. Your leadership teams are putting the final touches on your Midway adventure.

At the risk of repeating myself, I must remind all of us about where our focus should be. What do we truly need to pack for our 11-day adventure. Just the essentials because there is not a lot of room on the bike for anything else. And always remember, there are stores everywhere. It has always helped me to prepare a checklist of necessary items: Prescriptions, toiletries, changes of clothes, undergarments, extra glasses, long-sleeved shirts, socks, warm clothing for those cold mornings, extra gloves for those cold mornings, etc. The more you pack, the more weight you carry.

Pre-Paid Fuel

The “early purchase” Pre-Paid fuel option is now closed.  But, you can still get your pre-paid fuel sticker at registration check-in – CASH ONLY! At registration your payment will be verified or cash accepted, and you will be issued a fuel sticker. This will go on your windshield, on the clutch side just below your platoon number. For individuals with windshield banners, clutch side, beside your banner. Please remember, even with prepaid fuel you need to come to Staging each morning with a full tank of gas.

Route Itinerary

The Midway Route Itinerary has now been published and is available HERE. You can either print out a copy or download it to your phone or mobile device. This will provide you with a minute by minute, Day by day glimpse of exactly what you will be involved in. Additionally, I know many of you have friends that wish to meet you or stand on an overpass and recognize your personal adventure. The itinerary provides exact locations for you and your friends. Lastly, it also provides emergency Medical and Chase vehicle phone numbers to assist you with any issues you may face along the route.

Ontario Schedule of Events

The Ontario Pre-Run Itinerary/Schedule of Events has also been published and each of your team/Platoon leaders has been given a copy. Please ensure you are where you need to be to attend your meetings to meet your fellow riders and have the most current information. Additionally, there is also a schedule of events happening at the Elks lodge including meals.

A shuttle schedule has also been published between the host hotel and the Elks lodge if you wish to use it.

Registration

Believe it or not, there are still individuals who have not registered for the run.

Please register now. Our registration team needs to have you on their computers, so we know if you have made it to Ontario.

End of Mission at the Wall

The RFTW picture at the Lincoln Memorial will be on 24 May at 0900. You need to be there early to find a good location for the photo. Immediately afterwards we will walk to the Vietnam Memorial and have the “End of Mission” ceremony” where all four route coordinators will lay the RFTW Mission plaque at the apex of the wall. This will occur at 0930 so you need to make your way to the wall with a purpose.

Arlington National Cemetery and the Tomb of the Unknown

Midway has been assigned 19 motorcycles with 38 seats available to ride to the “Tomb of the Unknown soldier” and observe a laying of a wreath on behalf of all the riders from RFTW. This is truly an honor. The only motorcycles allowed on Arlington National Cemetery grounds are those from RFTW. A lottery will be used to select the riders. FNG’s and Vietnam vets only!

Please contact your platoon leader for additional details

Always remember our primary reason for riding is our Mission:

To Promote healing among all Veterans and their families and friends, to call for an accounting of all Prisoners of War and those Missing in Action (POW/MIA), to honor the memory of those Killed in Action (KIA) from all wars, and to support our military personnel all over the world.

Donations

If you are working with any organizations that are contributing to the Midway route for 2025, please remind them that there are only 12 days left to process the donation and to be useful in support of this year’s adventure.

Pack and repack your bike. (You do not need as much as you may think). Walk, run, stretch, exercise!

Ride your bike, if possible. Hydrate! Hydrate! Hydrate!

Do NOT procrastinate. Do it today!!!

Lastly, please remember that we respect all riders and their opinions. NO ATTITUDES!

Remember that we are on a Mission that requires all of us to work together and help each other in order to be successful. Set your own wants and needs aside and reflect on the hardships and commitment of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice to keep our country free.

We strive to maintain a safe, supportive and private atmosphere in which all participants can reflect and heal on their journey to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington D.C. in the hope that they can return home to a new beginning.

Freedom Isn’t Free

Say Their Name, Tell Their Story, Never Forget

 See you in Ontario. Be safe in your travels. Maybe practice Throttle control instead of using your brakes. Just saying!!!!

Ed “Wind Dog” Brundage
2025-Midway Route Coordinator
2023-2024 Advance Team Lead
2013-2022 Fuel team, Asst Fuel team Lead
2008-2012 Central Route ATW

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Midway Route Coordinator Newsletter – April 2025

RFTW Rider Survey

May is just around the corner. We are now just 41 Days from KSU.

We need to start considering our preparations for getting to Ontario and “On our Mission”.

What do we really need to pack for our 11-day adventure. Just the essentials because there is not a lot of room on the bike for anything else. And always remember, there are stores everywhere. It has always helped me to prepare a checklist of necessary items: Prescriptions, toiletries, changes of clothes, undergarments, extra glasses, long-sleeved shirts, socks, warm clothing for those cold mornings, extra gloves for those cold mornings, etc. If you have a rider, this also cuts your available space in half. I would start to practice packing now.

Is your bike ready? Has a qualified mechanic looked over it and told you it will make the total miles we will be traveling from your front door and back. Have you considered a couple of bottles of fuel additive in case we run into stations that do not carry 91 Octane? “Food for thought”!

Pre-Paid Fuel

The Pre-Paid fuel option is now open. I strongly recommend you use this method to pay for your fuel. It will reduce the time spent at the pumps substantially. Time that you will need off your bike. Payments may be made using Zelle (Your bank should have this capability) and sending $150.00 payment to Midway.Route@rftw.us. Remember to add “Midway Pre-paid fuel 2025″ in the memo line.

Riders fuel their motorcycles during Run For The Wall Midway Route

We will receive notification of the payment and will have a list of those who pre-paid for fuel at Registration in Ontario.  You can also send a check made out to: Run For The Wall, Inc.  Put “Midway Route prepaid fuel” in the memo line. Mail to: RFTW Treasurer, 50 Fourth Ave Unit 1445, Dayton, NV 89403.  A third option is to pay cash at check-in at Ontario. There are no credit card options. Please remember, even with prepaid fuel you need to come to Staging each morning with a full tank of gas.

Route Itineraries

Itineraries have now been published and are available on the Midway website. You can either print out a copy or use the QR code and download it to your phone or mobile device. This will provide you with a minute by minute, Day by day glimpse of exactly what you will be involved in. Additionally, I know many of you have friends that wish to meet you or stand on an overpass and recognize your personal adventure. The itinerary provides exact locations for you and your friends. Lastly, it also provides emergency Medical and Chase vehicle phone numbers to assist you with any issues you may face along the route.

Registration

There are still individuals who have not registered for the run. Please go to the website and register as soon as possible. If you are unsure if you have or have not registered yet, please send an e-mail to roger.ford1234@gmail.com and he can quickly check for you. We need accurate numbers for all our meal providers, fuel providers (They need to know how much 91 Octane to have on hand), hotels etc.

Additionally, our registration team needs to have you on their computers, so we know if you have made it to Ontario.

End of Mission at the Wall

The RFTW picture at the Lincoln Memorial will be on 24 May at 0900. You need to be there early to find a good location for the photo. Immediately afterwards we will walk to the Vietnam Memorial and have the “End of Mission” ceremony” where all four route coordinators will lay the RFTW Mission plaque at the apex of the wall. This will occur at 0930 so you need to make your way to the wall with a purpose.

Arlington National Cemetery and the Tomb of the Unknown

Midway has been assigned 19 motorcycles with 38 seats available to ride to the “Tomb of the Unknown soldier” and observe a laying of a wreath on behalf of all the riders from RFTW. This is truly an honor. The only motorcycles allowed on Arlington National Cemetery grounds are those from RFTW. I have selected a lottery method to fill those seats. FNG’s and Vietnam vets are my target population for this lottery. If you are interested, please contact your platoon leadership and give them your name.

More to follow on additional details

Sandbox Route

For those of you planning to continue your mission on the Sandbox route, here is your meeting schedule.

SandBox Route Meeting Schedule American Legion Post 176, 6520 Amherst Ave, Springfield, VA

Friday, 23 MAY 2025

  • 1:00-6:00pm Check-in All Riders (Bar area)
  • 1:00pm QM Equipment Setup (Dentz Rm)

 Saturday, 24 MAY 2025

  • 9:00am-6:00pm Check-in All Riders (Bar area)
  • 12:00-4:30pm QM Equipment Issue (Dentz Rm)
  • 2:30-3:00pm Team Leaders Mtg (Banquet Hall)
  • 3:00-3:30pm Road Guard Meeting (Warrior Cafe)
  • 3:00-3:30pm Staging/Fuel Team Mtg (Banquet Hall)
  • 3:30-4:00pm Amb/Outreach Team Mtg (Banquet Hall)
  • 3:30-4:00pm Platoon Leadership Mtg (Warrior Cafe)
  • 4:00-5:30pm All Riders Mtg (Banquet Hall)
  • 5:30-6:00pm FNG Mtg (Banquet Hall)

 

Rolling to Remember

If you are not riding the Sandbox route, there is a great opportunity to ride around the Mall of Washinton DC with R2R (Rolling to Remember). This used to be called Rolling Thunder but has changed it’s name. There will be a group leaving from the American legion Post on the morning of the 25th to attend this rally. Please stand by for more information on this opportunity. There is some planning still being completed.

Donations

Donations are still being accepted in support of the Midway route. If you have any organizations, veteran’s groups or friends of veterans we would really appreciate their support. RFTW is a 501 (c) 3 organization.

If any of your organizations are considering a donation, please let them know that we are 42 days away from KSU.

I am truly excited about this year’s Midway route experience. Your leadership team has worked countless hours to ensure your safety and journey is as stress free as they can possibly make it.

They are truly the living definition of Servant leadership, and I personally salute each of them. If you get the opportunity a “Thank you” and a shake of the hand would be all the pay, they receive.

Pack and repack your bike. (You do not need as much as you may think). Walk, run, stretch, exercise!

Ride your bike, if possible. Hydrate! Hydrate! Hydrate!

We are getting closer fast and time fly’s, so do NOT procrastinate.

My ARC (Assistant Route Coordinator) and I look forward to meeting each of you in Ontario.

“Is it May yet”  “Never forget”  “Say their names”  “Service before self”

Ed “Wind Dog” Brundage
2025-Midway Route Coordinator
2023-2024 Advance Team Lead
2013-2022 Fuel team, Asst Fuel team Lead
2008-2012 Central Route ATW

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Midway Route Coordinator Newsletter – March 2025

RFTW Rider Survey

March is already here and that leaves us with 72 days until KSU. Most people are busy with their daily lives. Children, Grandchildren, work, friends which is just life in general and produces our greatest personal joys. You also need to focus on your needs to make this journey enjoyable and personally rewarding. Riding a motorcycle requires some intense preparation and planning.

Have you been getting in physical shape? Riding a motorcycle for 10 straight days will require at least a stretching regime to keep your legs from cramping. Please start walking with your spouse, or some light weights or stretching or something that will reduce any discomfort from being in the “seat” for hours at a time.

Is your bike ready for your trip to Ontario, then to DC and then home? My mechanic does what he calls a “Safety Check” where he changes oil (All three holes), checks the tires to ensure enough tread is available to get you across the country and home, all bike systems, brakes, pads, cables, system connectors, axles, bearings. My instructions to him are to look at this bike with a parent’s eye like you were going to give it to your son or daughter to make this journey.

Please go over it after you get it from the shop and ensure all bolts, hex screws and all other bike parts are tightened down. Anything falling from your bike must be delt with by everyone following you. That is your personal safety tip.

The final preparations are underway to make this adventure the most rewarding, healing journey you have experienced. Following the principle of “Servant Leadership” all team leaders are busily at work dotting all the I’s and crossing all the T’s ensuring a ride that holds no hidden surprises. No one likes “Murphys Law”.

The route itinerary is almost completed and should be available by the end of the month or shortly after. This will only be available to you in a digital format, but you will be able to download it to your phone, laptop, pad or print out a hard copy. This will tell you what the route will be doing from Day to Day, stops through each day, Fueling and staging locations, host hotel information, emergency telephone numbers for chase vehicles and medical needs, hand signals used by RFTW and any daily special instructions from your road guards.

The schedules for Ontario and Springfield, VA are in there final preparations and should be published shortly. These will provide you with additional information about required events like registration, required meetings, their locations and additional event opportunities. There will be rider training offered this year in Lot D by your professional Road Guard community if you would like just a little more practice before jumping on our country’s freeway system. More to follow in next month’s newsletter about these schedules.

For our FNG’s (Friendly New Guys/Gals)

I am personally excited about all the opportunities that are available for you this year. Missing Man formation rider, Flag escort, food line priorities (Maybe), Arlington National Cemetery (Tomb of the Unknown) and many others. The Board of Directors has acquired permission for 75 bikes to go to the Tomb for the ceremony. The Route Coordinators are currently discussing the number of bikes per route that will be assigned.

To my Vietnam Brothers and Sisters

Prepare yourself for a “welcome home” celebration from many individuals and organizations across the country. This will be a journey for you that I sincerely hope will help you bring closure to any issues you still may be suffering from in our war. I stand with and beside you daily in this healing journey. We have a dedicated Chaplain Corps available for you at any time.
Lastly, Get out on that motorcycle and ride. If the weather permits, try and get some longer rides in since we will be in seats between 430 to 250 miles per day. Once is not bad, however you will be riding for 10 days straight.

Stand by for more information to follow as we get closer to KSU!

“Is it May Yet”

Ed “Wind Dog” Brundage
2025-Midway Route Coordinator
2023-2024 Advance Team Lead
2013-2022 Fuel team, Asst Fuel team Lead
2008-2012 Central Route ATW

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Midway Route Coordinator Newsletter – February 2025

RFTW Rider Survey

Let me introduce myself. My name is Ed Brundage and my road name is Wind Dog. I am honored to have been approved by the Board of Directors to be the Route Coordinator for the Midway route for 2025.

I am a retired Marine Infantrymen and served for 25 years in uniform. In addition, I had a second career in Law enforcement which was sidelined by a little bout of cancer. However, I am currently cancer free and fully retired.

This year is the year of the Vietnam Veteran so I thought I would share my experience as a combat Marine so that you may understand how healing the RFTW journey is for many veterans.

All veterans returning from Vietnam were wounded. If not physical wounds, they suffered from emotional and psychological ones etched into them by the horrors of war.

Like many of those returning veterans, upon my return I was not treated well by some of my fellow Americans. So to diminish the personal pain of that treatment I placed all of those memories of cherished relationships and hardship suffered together by fellow brothers in arms into a mental lockbox. This lockbox was only opened in the presence of fellow veterans who had liked experience.

Life moved on and I suffered in Silence until early in 2008 a very close veteran friend told me about Run for the Wall and its healing properties. I was extremely skeptical but as soon as I rode under that first freeway overpass filled with American patriots waving American flags I felt a pride in my country again I had not felt in years.

The meals shared at the many churches, Harley Dealers and others, the stops at the veterans’ homes, the children’s schools with all of them waving American flags and screaming USA and so much more.

The culmination of all three routes arriving in Washington is celebrated at the Apex of the Vietnam memorial to signify the end of the mission.

With the support of new brothers I had gained along the route, I was able to find the names of my lost brothers whose names were etched into that wall.

I finally was able to release the personal “survivors’ guilt” I had carried all those many years. In addition to the anger that I carried for the minority of Americans who had scarred me with their painful words and deeds.

The first line of the RFTW mission statement Is: To promote healing among all veterans and their family and friends. This ride does SO much more.

Since my first ride I have dedicated myself to supporting the Run for the Wall in any capacity I can to provide that same experience to all veterans and patriots.

Statistics show that too many veterans are taking their own lives at an alarming rate. If we can provide this healing journey and save the lives of some, I believe that is a win.
“Service before self”     “ Never forget”      “Say their names”

On a different matter, weather permitting, please start riding your bike, longer distances as you can, you will be riding 250 to 400 miles per day on the run and you need to be prepared Physically and mentally.

Please take advantage of the RFTW forum on the website. You will find it at the top of the page as a drop down under Connect. There are many discussions already posted there, and you can ask any question you wish. I have always had many responses from riders on all four routes who have learned many lessons on prior rides that may be very helpful.

To the many FNG’s (Friendly New Guys and Gals) Welcome to the Midway route. Your leadership and I are dedicated to the principle of “Servant Leadership”. We have been working diligently to ensure you can experience the same personal feelings they felt on their first and subsequent runs. The first words that come to mind about what you will experience are Healing, emotional, life changing and fulfilling.

You are part of the Midway family! 102 days to KSU (Kick Stands Up) for you new guys.

We Ride For Those Who Can’t.

Is it May YET?!

Ed “Wind Dog” Brundage
2025-Midway Route Coordinator
2023-2024 Advance Team Lead
2013-2022 Fuel team, Asst Fuel team Lead
2008-2012 Central Route ATW

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Midway Route RC Announcement

RFTW Midway Route

The Board of Directors is pleased to announce the confirmation of Ed “Wind Dog” Brundage as the new Route Coordinator for the Midway Route 2025. Ed brings years of leadership experience and RFTW experience dating back to 2008. During his service to RFTW, Ed served as a team member and leader on the fuel team and advanced team and has ridden both Central and Midway Routes.

Welcome Ed!

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Midway Route Coordinator Newsletter – January 2025

A very Happy New Year to you all!  I hope everyone had an enjoyable holiday season with friends and family.  It is hard to believe we are already into 2025 with just four months until we go kick stands up for the 35th Annual Run for the Wall.

Midway Leadership and State Coordinators continue to work hard on finalizing the planning for this year’s Run.  It is an honor to be a part of such an amazing group and I cannot thank them enough for their efforts and continued dedication.  As a result of your feedback from AAR’s, we have made a couple of changes to fuel stops minimizing the distance from Staging to the facilities.  We have also finalized the logistics around Day 8 after departing Knoxville.  This year will find us stopping in Bristol, VA for our dinner and overnight stop.  The morning of Day 9 we will travel through Virginia and back into North Carolina to our historical lunch stop in Siler City where we will get “back to normal”. Avoiding Asheville was not a decision we intended on making nor was it an easy one however in the interest of safety to the pack it was one that had to be made.  Thank you to all of the Midway Leadership that helped in the monumental task of all that is involved in rerouting a pack!

We are still in need of  a few Volunteers.  If you are interested in participating as an Honor Guard, please contact our Honor Guard Coordinator Roger “Bullseye” Ford at roger.ford1234@gmail.com.  We are also looking to add a couple of more trained medical personnel for our medical team. If you have an interest to serve in this capacity or know someone who is, please fill out a volunteer application or you may contact me directly. We also need some help with The Merchandise team.  No experience is necessary, training will be provided, and you have an opportunity to take people’s money!   

Registration is still $60 per person through 31 January 2025.  After that, Regular Registration is from 01 February 2025 through 30 April 2025 and will increase to a cost of $75 per person.  If you wait until May, the Last Minute Moe cost will go up to $90 per person.  Your registration assists in the planning of necessary personnel, meals, etc so I would encourage you to go online and register before the Early Bird rate ends. 

Midway has chosen to not increase the Prepaid Fuel cost for this year.  Coast to Coast will be $150 and $25 per day for Day Riders or those that choose not to participate in the Prepaid option.  I would highly encourage you to consider Prepaid.  Not only is it very cost-effective in the big picture, but it also helps provide a safer and more efficient stop at the pumps!  If you would like to go ahead and check this off of your To Do List and your bank uses Zelle, mark your donation to midway.route@rftw.us. Please be sure to include Midway – Prepaid Fuel in the For line so that we can allocate the money correctly. If you prefer to donate via check please mail it to:

Run for the Wall

50 Fourth Ave Unit 1445

Dayton, NV 89403

Be sure to include Midway – Prepaid Fuel in the For line so we can allocate it accordingly.  If you prefer to pay at Registration Check-In either in Ontario or wherever you join us, please note we will ONLY ACCEPT CASH.  NO EXCEPTION.

 I would like you all to begin thinking about the Breakouts that we will be conducting on our second day in Cookeville, TN.  As in year’s past we will be visiting the following locations:

Breakout 1 – Sunbright Memorial in Sunbright, TN

Breakout 2 – Southside Elementary & Wilson County Veterans Memorial in Lebanon, TN

Breakout 3 – Tennessee State Veterans Home in Murfreesboro, TN

Each one of these stops is special in its own way so no matter which you choose you can’t go wrong!  Lunch will be served at each Breakout, so we need to begin working on a headcount to assist our TN State Coordinator Phil Friedli with the logistics for meals.  We will most likely reach out to you during Platoon assignments to see which one you are interested in participating in.  If you are in Leadership, please reach out to Phil or Ed Butler directly so that they can get you registered on your Breakout of choice.

Topics on the RFTW Forums continue to grow.  I would encourage you to visit there if you are looking for information on things like GMRS radios and setup, advice for FNG’s, meet ups and get togethers in your areas, individuals looking for a roommate on the Run.  Don’t see what you are looking for….start your own discussion. Thanks again to Ted Kapner for all his efforts behind the scenes to get this up and running!  RFTW’s Podcast is another great way to find out more about what makes the Run and each Route so special.  For more information go to Podcast on the RFTW website.

“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.”  This is why we ride.  Together let’s make 2025 a year to remember and give our Vietnam Veterans the WELCOME HOME they so deserved 50 years ago.

Say their names.  Tell their stories.  Never forget.

Eric “Pitch” Fort

Route Coordinator – Midway 2025

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Midway Route Coordinator Newsletter – December 2024

The holiday season is upon us.  While it is a season of celebrating for some, it can be a time of sadness and struggle for others.  Please take a few minutes to check in on those loved ones or friends you haven’t spoken to in a while.  It may be the best present they receive!

Two items on my wish list that I would like you to help me check off.  The first is Registration.  If you have not yet registered, especially if you are in a Leadership position, I ask that you to do so today.  I cannot stress how important this is to our planning efforts at every level.  The second is Volunteer.  For the most part our teams overall have filled out well however we still have a few critical positions that remain open.

  • Medical – this role is extremely important to the safety of all on the Route.  If you believe your experience compliments this role, please fill out the volunteer form or you can reach out to me directly with any questions you may have.
  • Registration – we all know the importance this role plays before and during the Run.  I am asking someone please step up to help out. 
  • Merchandise Sales – we currently have a driver to haul the trailer however we need someone else to assist with the setup and sales.  If you enjoy taking people’s money then this is the perfect position for you!

I do not want to seem negative but the fact is these are key positions and we are struggling to find volunteers to step up.

To all of our FNG’s, welcome!  It is exciting to see the next generation of riders join our Midway family.   In the coming weeks you will be hearing from Roger “Bullseye” Ford, Midway’s FNG Coordintor, who will be setting up Zoom calls to help familiarize you with Run For The Wall and what to expect during the ride. Another great resource for information is the RFTW Forum. You can find a number of topics here: from those looking to share a room to help cut travel costs, to general information for FNG’s, to various meetups across the country. Have a question…create a post!  Another great source of information is the RFTW Podcast hosted by Hitch and Boots. They do an amazing job spreading the word about the Run.  Every episode has a new guest which provides different perspectives on the Run and how it is has impacted them personally. Be sure to check out the various episodes on YouTube.

To those that participated in the recent challenge to raise money for MANNA Foodbank in Asheville, NC, thank you.  A check was mailed to them last week with enough funds to help provide over 9,000 meals to those who were impacted by the devastation of Hurricane Helene.  Although this fundraiser has ended I challenge everyone to continue to help support this community that has opened their arms to Midway over the years!

“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.”  This is why we ride.  Together let’s make 2025 a year to remember and give our Vietnam Veterans the WELCOME HOME they so deserved 50 years ago.

Say their names.  Tell their stories.  Never forget.  Never give up hope.

Until they all come home…

Eric “Pitch” Fort

Route Coordinator – Midway 2025

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Midway Route Coordinator Newsletter – November 2024

Greetings from the deep South! Other than the time change it is hard to tell that we are nearly halfway through November. Warmer than normal temperatures are still providing many of us with some extended nice riding weather but before we know it winter will be upon us. This is a great time to begin to take inventory of your equipment and gear. You might even find a few things to add to that last minute Christmas wish list!

Planning for 2025’s Run continues to progress well. I cannot thank our key Leadership enough for quickly coming together and assisting with several recommendations to get the pack safely around areas that we would normally travel on the way to Asheville. While we are still ironing out a few of the final details, most of the required changes have been completed and are locked in. Our State Coordinators are hard at work putting the finishing touches on the stops in their respective areas. We even have something new planned for Fort Sill but you will have to keep checking future newsletters to find out more! Your AAR’s from 2024 have also been extremely helpful in making changes and adjustments where needed. A big thank you to our State Coordinators for their continued hard work and dedication in making each year better than the last.

Two months have passed since Registration opened and I am happy to say that Midway’s numbers are inline with where we have been tracking at this same time over the last couple of years. If you have not yet registered, please do so. This not only helps our State Coordinators with numbers for meals, support, etc but also allows our Platoon Coordinator JavaJoe to start working with the Platoon Leaders on Platoon assignments. Click here to register today!

Our teams are shaping up well but we could use a few more volunteers. Staging team, Medical team, Merchandise Team and Registration Team Lead are positions that we need to fill soon. Each plays a critical role in completing our Mission and Midway needs you to help make this happen. To find out more as well as complete the Volunteer Signup Form click here. Feel free to reach out to me directly if you have questions or want to know where your skills would best fit. You can find my contact info as well as our Team Leaders here.

A few have asked about hotels. The 2025 hotel list will be released on January 1st. There is a great deal of work and coordination that goes into this.  A huge thank you to the State Coordinators and Jerry “Corps” Wilkins for all you do to make this happen. Jerry has also locked in camping areas however we need someone who is going All the Way and is camping to step up as the point of contact/coordinator to assist our campers. You can sign up here for this role.

To our FNG’s, welcome!  We are excited to have you join our family. In the coming weeks you will be hearing from Roger “Bullseye” Ford, Midway’s FNG Coordintor, who will be setting up some calls to help familiarize you with Run For The Wall and what to expect during the ride. I would also recommend checking out the RFTW Forum. There is a lot of useful information housed here: from those looking to share a room to help cut travel costs, to general information for FNG’s, to various meetups across the country. Another great source of information is the RFTW Podcast hosted by Hitch and Boots. They do a great job and have a mix of special guests that help provide different perspectives on the Run. You can listen to the various episodes on YouTube here. Be sure to Bookmark each for future reference! As you find out more about our Mission you will hear about The Missing Man Formation. “The Missing Man Formation is a rolling salute to honor the memory of the fallen, KIA, MIA, or POW. Five bikes ride in formation with a space where one bike should be, symbolizing the person’s absence. On each leg of each route we honor a different individual in the Missing Man Formation. There is a short ceremony just prior to the departure of the pack and we SAY THEIR NAMES so that their service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.”   If there is a hero you would like to ride for please let your Platoon Coordinator (they will be reaching out to you soon for introductions) know so that they can get you connected with our Missing Man Coordinator Alan “Rocketman” Farmer.

Speaking of the Forum, thanks to Central Route Coordinator Kirk “Pretty Boy” Olson for creating a few videos around setting up and programming the GMRS radios that all four Routes Leadership and Road Guards are moving to this year. If you are a rider and want to listen in, check out the Forum as well for which radios are recommended based on extensive use by a number of riders.

We only have a few days left for the MANNA Foodbank challenge before we send a check to them. MANNA FoodBank, located in Asheville, North Carolina, is a private, not-for-profit service organization working to end food insecurity in the 16 counties of Western North Carolina, including the Qualla Boundary. They have been an integral part of providing meals to those impacted by the devastation from Hurricane Helene. If you have not yet donated, I ask that you please consider doing so. For those who would like to send a check, please ensure that you make it out to Run for the Wall and in the For line put Midway – MANNA. You can mail your check to:

Run for the Wall Inc.

50 Fourth Ave Unit 1445

Dayton, NV 89403

For those whose bank uses Zelle and you would like to donate that way, mark your donation to midway.route@rftw.us. Please be sure to include Midway – Manna in the For line as well. If you prefer to donate via the RFTW website, please make sure you click on Midway in the drop down as well as check the box for “I wish to make this donation in the name of/or on behalf of another individual” and enter Midway-Manna under “Individual’s Name”. Let’s show Asheville how much they mean to us.

“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.”  This is why we ride.  Together let’s make 2025 a year to remember and give our Vietnam Veterans the WELCOME HOME they so deserved 50 years ago.

Say their names.  Tell their stories.  Never forget.  Never give up hope.

Until they all come home…

Eric “Pitch” Fort

Route Coordinator – Midway 2025

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Midway Route Coordinator Newsletter – October 2024

Photo credit to Jim “Hoofer” McCrain

Photo credit to Jim “Hoofer” McCrain

  In the wake of recent events, it is difficult for me to begin this newsletter saying happy October.  Day 8 of the Run finds Midway traveling through the beautiful hills and mountains of North Carolina, stopping at the Tennessee/North Carolina line for fuel and much anticipated ice cream at the Citgo Station before traveling down the twisties of I-40 on the way into Asheville for our dinner stop at Harley-Davidson of Asheville.  Over the years the acquaintances we met have grown into friends and those friends have become part of the Midway family.  Our hearts, thoughts and prayers go out to not only this area that was hit so hard by the devastation Helene brought but also to those impacted in other parts of North Carolina as well as Florida, Georgia, and Tennessee.  I know you feel the same as I do right now…. what can I do to help?  Sadly, many organizations will pop up claiming to help.  I ask that you do your research before donating anything to ensure that your generosity goes to those truly needing the help. 

  Since last week’s storm I have seen many posts on social media about what Midway is going to do in regard to the route as it relates to the Asheville area.  Please know that your leadership and state coordinators have been in constant contact with one another over the last several days.  While it is still early, we are diligently working on alternate plans and routes to ensure the pack can get safely across North Carolina while still making as many of our annual stops as possible.  Any changes made will be for the good of the route and included in the itinerary when it is released.

  On a positive note, our teams and platoons are shaping up well.  Thank you to our leadership for your hard work and efforts so far and to those who have stepped up and volunteered to serve Midway.  We could not do what we do without each and every one of you!  BUT would it really be a RC Newsletter if I didn’t say…. much like Uncle Sam, WE NEED YOU!  If you have the desire to volunteer and give back to Midway you can visit the Volunteer Sign-Up page to see the positions and their requirements as well as complete and submit your Volunteer Application.  We have two positions that I would really like to fill sooner than later.  Our New Mexico State Coordinator Garland Ray aka GW needs an Assistant State Coordinator. GW does an amazing job setting up safe and enjoyable travels through New Mexico and needs some help with the planning and meetings. If you live in NM and are interested or have questions, please reach out to me via email at eric.fort@rftw.us. I know I speak for GW as well when I say we would love to have you join the team!!

  With registration now open, the second position we need to fill for Midway is Registration team lead. This is a critical role as you are often the first face our riders meet at Run for the Wall. Representing RFTW in a professional and positive manner is a must. You must also be able to go All the Way from CA to DC as registration is conducted not only in Ontario prior to Midway’s departure but also during the Run at our evening stop or in the morning prior to the morning meeting (preferably at the evening stop!) The ideal candidate is one that can not only articulate the registration/check-in process and its requirements but also accurately complete the process electronically and manually if required; distribute registration materials; generate daily reports. This is a quick highlight of the role and responsibilities. If you are interested in this key role or would like further information, please contact me directly at eric.fort@rftw.us. 

  Speaking of registration, as of yesterday our numbers show us to be ahead of where we were this time last year.  Thank you early birds for registering so quickly!  Be sure to register soon and take advantage of the Early Bird price before it goes up on 01 February 2025.  This also helps us from a planning perspective.  State Coordinators can begin to work with our supporters on numbers for meals, etc.  Platoon Leaders can begin reaching out to you for introductions.  Our FNG coordinator Bullseye can begin coordinating calls to discuss what to expect and how to prepare for the Run.  If you have not done so yet go to Registration on the RFTW website.  It only takes a couple of minutes and is one more thing to check off the to do list.  Be sure to take advantage of the prepaid fuel as well.  It is very cost-effective for those going all the way and it also helps provide a safer and more efficient stop at the pumps!

“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.”  This is why we ride.  Together let’s make 2025 a year to remember and give our Vietnam Veterans the WELCOME HOME they so deserved 50 years ago.

Say their names.  Tell their stories.  Never forget.  Never give up hope.

Until they all come home…

Eric “Pitch” Fort

Route Coordinator – Midway 2025