Category: Midway Route SitReps

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February 2026 Central Route Coordinator Newsletter

It’s Groundhog Day!  A day when we let our superstitions get the better of us and allow a rodent to predict the future and according to Punxsutawney Phil there will be six more weeks of winter.

Whatever the prediction, we are Run for the Wall Riders!  Come rain, hail, sandstorms, snow, or tornados in 100 days we will start our pilgrimage east in order to remember and honor our POW/MIA/KIA’s as well as to will promote healing to all the lives they touched and to ride for those that can’t.

We have 290 people registered so far and heart felt “Welcome home” goes out to the 80 FNG’s that have registered so far for RFTW XXXVI. Registration fees have now gone up to $120 per person.  The Day Rider rate is now in effect (up to 3 days on the road riding) at $100 per person.

The Hotel and camping information have been posted on the Central Route page.  If you haven’t made your reservations, I would do so now.  The hotels will only keep our blocks of rooms with special RFTW rates for a short time.

Our leadership team is hard at work for the Run.  Your platoon Coordinator, Ed Humphries is compiling the list for platoons and trying to meet everyone’s requests.

I expect Fuel Sticker prices to be released shortly, I am confirming our donated stops and looking at my crystal ball to prognosticate the price of fuel for May.

The Route Itinerary is being fined tuned and should be out in a month or so. There are not many changes and remember that we are stopping in Nitro, WV this year.

Volunteers:  Volunteers are still needed for positions!  Here are some positions that need to be filled: Staging, Medical Team, Friends of Bill Coordinator.

Some of our positions also need backups in case the primary person needs to drop out. So, if you have any questions about any of the positions on the Run or about the Run itself, please reach out to me.  I’m only a phone call or email away.

Be sure to check out the RFTW Forum, Facebook pages, and Podcasts for the latest tips and information.

A few comments from one of our California State Coordinators, Carol Olmstead about Ontario:

“The Elks will start having food available for purchase on Sunday at noon instead of later in the day as in the past.  A menu will be completed in about a month.  There will be a bike washing station, patch sewing, as well as someone doing small repairs like last year. The layout of the parking area at the Elks is still being planned and will be available when ready.  Many campers are expected this year, and they will be staying in the RV section of the Elks parking lot.

There will be RFTW menu at the Holiday Inn.

If you are staying at the Holiday Inn and booked your room through the special link on the RFTW Hotel list, there will be a discounted breakfast coupon you can buy at the front desk during check-in.  Upon check in at the Holiday Inn, you should also be provided a bottle of water and a goodie bag for each room.”

If you get a chance to meet any other of our State Coordinators, be sure to thank them.  They work tirelessly throughout the year getting donations, food, fuel, hotel rates, and all the necessary permits to ensure a successful and safe Run.

In regard to communications during the Run.  GMRS is the way you will hear what is happening while on the road during the Run.  GMRS radios are not required for platoon riders and the primary communications within platoons are hand signals.

If you do have a GMRS radio, remember that the frequency we use for the Run is a restricted channel, meaning it is used for the safe conduct of the Run.

If you transmit over the radio, you must have an FCC license:

General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) | Federal Communications Commission

The license is $35 per family, no test is needed, and it is good for 10 years.  You can apply for one here:

Applying for a New License in the Universal Licensing System (ULS) | Federal Communications Commission

Here are some links regarding GMRS radios.

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

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

REMEMBER TO DISABLE AUDIO RELAY ON THE RADIO AND MAKE SURE YOUR VOX IS DISABLED!

Get your Bike ready! Get yourself ready! Get your mindset ready!  It’s time to focus on the Run!

GO SEAHAWKS!

 

Mission Statement

To promote healing among all veterans and their family and friends

Call for an accounting of all Prisoners of War & Missing in Action (POW/MIA)

Honor the memory of those Killed in Action (KIA)

Support our military people all over the world.

 

Is it May yet?

Jim “Who?” McDonough
XXXVI Central Route Coordinator

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Midway Route Coordinator Newsletter – February 2026

Run for the Wall®

102 Days to KSU!

Hello Midway family,

Is it February already. Where is the time going?

Friends and families are still recovering from some of the most devastating weather events of the year and in some areas, more to come. We need to keep them all in our thoughts and prayers. The time goes by so quickly. Before we know it, May will be upon us. Check on your friends and family and ensure that they are OK.

RFTW Mission Statement

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.

Registration

Registration has been open since Sept. 11th, 2025. Midway is doing well on getting riders registered. We now have over 180 personnel registered to ride with us. Still, if you have not registered yet, please consider doing it as soon as possible. We need semi-accurate numbers for our fuel stops so they know how much 91 octane they will need to have available for us. Additionally, our lunch and dinner locations need to have a best guess so they can provide the appropriate portions and Hotels, and camping locations need to know how many rooms or camping sites will be required. I know there are a lot of moving parts, but it is necessary to get this family across the country as safely and efficiently as possible.  You can register on our website just as you have in the past.

Registration Rates for Coast to Coast Routes

  1. Regular Registration – $120 per person
  2. Day Riders (up to 3 days on the road riding) – $100 per person

Hotel rooms and Camping locations

As a friendly reminder, Hotel and camping locations are posted on the Midway page. If you have not made your reservations, please do so soon. The hotels will only keep our blocks of rooms with special rates available for a short time and then they need to open them up to other travelers at the standard rate. So, the sooner you get this done the better the chances you can take advantage of the RFTW special rates.

The same goes for the posted camping locations.

We are Still Looking for Volunteers

Midway route is looking for a few good men or women. I need some dedicated riders to assist me with Registration, Promotions, Staging and a chase vehicle. The chase vehicle is required to be a pickup with a trailer capable of transporting 2 motorcycles. I will pay for the fuel used by the chase vehicle from Ontario to DC.  If you would be willing to assist the Midway riders in any of these positions, please contact your ARC at randy.sheets@rftw.us or go to the Midway website and fill out a volunteer sign up form. You will gain a sense of fulfillment that only comes with sacrifice and service to your family.

Gulf War Veterans

The Midway 2026 family will be recognizing all Gulf War veterans on the 35th Anniversary of Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm this coming year. This was the first war that America and her allies had won decisively Since World War II. More to follow on planned events

Pre-Paid Fuel

I have chosen to increase the Prepaid Fuel cost for this year.  Coast to Coast will be $160 and it will be Mandatory. Even though gas prices have declined in certain parts of the country, the great concern and unknown is California. The most recent check at our fuel stop in California had the cost of 91 octane at $6.40 per gallon. Refineries are closing and regulations are tightening on the remaining gas producers. To ensure we do not have to be financially constrained because of the uncertainty, I have increased the cost by $10.00 this year. If we find that we are financially OK, I will use any surplus to pay the cost of the fuel for the chase, Hydration and support vehicles, which are a route cost anyway. If you choose not to participate you will be fueling at a pump NOT controlled by the Midway fuel team. You will be issued a pre-paid fuel sticker at registration by a fuel team member indicating that you have paid for fuel. This will be attached to your windshield (Clutch side) just below your platoon number. Not only is Prepaid fuel 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 (Most financial institutions have this capability), mark your payment 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 pay via check, please mail it to:

Run for the Wall, Inc.
Attn: Midway 2026 Prepaid Fuel
50 Fourth Ave Unit 1445
Dayton, NV 89403

Be sure to include Midway 2026 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!

Ontario/DC Schedule of events

The events and meeting schedules are being developed as we speak. The Elks lodge in Ontario has once again stepped up and meals are being planned, meetings and registration will be conducted at the lodge. Many meetings and gatherings are additionally planned for the host hotel. Midway will be the first route to begin the run on the morning of 13 May at 0700 from Lot D.

Refreshments and coffee will be donated and available at morning staging prior to the morning schedule and KSU.

In DC, we will again be hosted by the American Legion Post 176 in Springfield, VA with meals and meeting rooms.

We again will be selecting riders to take their bikes to Arlington National Cemetery, conduct a washing of the Vietnam Wall, take a photo at the Lincoln Memorial, have a ceremony for the end of RFTW 2026 at the apex of the Vietnam Memorial and potentially something at the new Gulf war memorial.

Please stay tuned and as these events formalize, I will get you the information immediately so you can plan to participate.

Friday Evening Parade, Marine Barracks, 8th & I, Washington D.C.

There are plans being made to attend the Marine Barracks, Washington, D.C Friday Evening Parade on 22 May. Time TBD. You will find this information posted on the RFTW website forum under “2026 Marine Barracks event registration”. If you have never attended this ceremony, you will miss something to tell your children about.

Rolling to Remember (Formally Rolling Thunder)

We will be providing an opportunity to attend Rolling to Remember this year, probably shortly after the Sandbox route goes KSU on the 24th of May. Again, if you have never participated in this event, it is something to remember. More to follow!

GMRS Radios

For everybody in a leadership position, make sure you check your communications equipment for connectivity and firmware updates.  There is a new version of the firmware for the BTech GMRS Pro, titled “0.8.12.”  The update is easy to install using the phone app that goes with the radio.

If you are using a Sena headset, make sure you update to the most current firmware using the Sena Device Manager version 4.4.17.  The headset needs to be plugged into a Windows or Mac computer with a charging cable that supports data transfer (not all do), then follow the on-screen instructions.  If the application doesn’t recognize your device, you can try different cables until it works.  Sena has a troubleshooting guide and you can contact them directly for specific guidance on how to resolve problems.

Fundraising

We’re still looking for collectible, unique items that we can use to help us raise funds to support our mission.  If you know of anybody who might be able to donate such items, please let them know it would be very much appreciated and help us make donations of our own to our supporters and other worthwhile charitable organizations we encounter along the way.  Once we get items together, we’ll decide how they can best support us and figure out a way to offer them to our riders through auctions and drawings.  All of this fundraising allows us to operate the Midway Route and keep costs down.

RFTW Website

The RFTW website has a ton of information about the run, but there might still be questions you haven’t found the answers to. Two great sources of information are the RFTW Forum and After Action Reports (AAR).  I used to think that the AARs were only meant to give feedback right after the run. While that is the main reason for them, they can be used any time of the year. If you don’t know who you should direct a question to, fill out an AAR, and it will be sent to the right person to get you an answer. Also, if you have an idea that might help to improve the run, fill out an AAR. All AARs are read by the Board of Directors and directed to the respective Route Coordinators. Another outstanding source for information about the run is the new RFTW Podcast that is produced by Ted “Boots” Kapner and Tai “Hitch” Harmon. These Podcasts have a great amount of information about the run and are very entertaining.

General Information

Let’s continue to work on our personal preparations to get ready to complete the Run in May.  This includes (among many other things) motorcycle maintenance, mental and physical conditioning, and having a system for packing and unpacking your motorcycle repeatedly, day after day.  The more you practice, the easier it will become, which can reduce or eliminate any stress you may feel in anticipation of this amazing and demanding experience.

I personally change my tires each year. That is just me! It takes any concern about tire condition, bike control and performance off the table. If you can afford it!

Go over your bike with a “fine tooth comb”. Meaning closely check each bolt, screw or connector for tightness. There is nothing worse than having something fall from a bike and travel through a platoon with the potential of causing, at a minimum, damage to another bike. Blue lock tight is a very good solution.

If possible, get the bike out and ride. Nothing replaces experience, so get in the seat, on the road.

There have been years when we have had sunny days all the way across the country. However, we have also had rainstorms, hail and snow on one occasion. So, you need to be prepared to ride in all weather conditions. We will not stop because of different weather conditions unless it affects the safety of the riders. I will make that determination! With that said, if you ever feel personally unsafe, you can “Tap out” and join us at the next stop.

Pack riding is different than riding in small groups or in pairs. There is a lot of discussion about the differences in the RFTW Forum, and the SOP establishes policy to provide some controls, so you ride safely surrounded by other motorcycles that are impacted by your riding abilities. Practice Throttle control!!!!!

Think about who you are riding for.

“We ride for those who can’t”

Remember that we are on a Mission that requires all of us to work together and help each other 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.

I get more excited each day as we get closer to May. I interact daily with your leadership team and want to assure you that they are working diligently to make Midway 2026 the best experience for you, whether you are an FNG or a returning rider. They deserve your gratitude!

Shortly, we will be in the “two digit” territory. That is military lingo for, time is getting short! The closer we get, the faster time will fly so I strongly recommend that you get those things that you know you need to accomplish completed or they can rapidly turn into last-minute emergencies.

As the great American Philosopher, Forrest Gump, says “One less thang”

“Say Their Name”      “Tell Their Story”         “ Never Forget”

Is it May yet?

 

Ed “Wind Dog” Brundage
Midway Route Coordinator 2025, 2026
Advanced Team Lead 2023 – 2024
Fuel Team Lead, Assist Team lead, Team Member 2015 – 2022
Central Route 2009 – 2013
FNG 2008

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January 2026 Central Route Coordinator Newsletter

Happy New Year!  I hope all of you had a wonderful and safe holiday with your family and friends.

2026 is now here and marks the 250th anniversary of the founding of our great country.  The days are getting longer, and it is only 131 days to KSU!

The hotel list for the 2026 Central Route has been released!  So get your reservations made!  The link to the hotel are here. In Ontario, please seriously consider staying at the host hotel.  Conference spaces and other things are provided based on the number of rooms we fill at the host hotel.  If we don’t meet the minimum occupancy, we may not get the same size conference room next year.

If you’re looking for a roommate, check out the forums to see who else is looking or post your own request.  If you post something on the Central Route Facebook page, it may not be seen by everyone.

To all those that have not yet registered, please do so now.  I see that 14 people have registered in the last couple of weeks and a hearty welcome home goes out to the 43 FNG’s that have registered so far for RFTW XXXVI.

 

Remember, the registration fee will increase to $120 on February 1, 2026.  Our Registration Teams and Platoon Leaders will start working on Platoon assignments soon so don’t delay!

Register Here!

Our Route planning is on going with some minor changes.  Midway is coming back to the 10-day run.  While travelling through Arizona, we will help celebrate U.S. Route 66’s Centennial with a drive through Seligman, AZ and on Day 10, after lunch, we will join up with the Southern Route and travel together into Springfield, VA.

FNGs!  In the next couple of months, expect to be contacted by our FNG Coordinator, Platoon Coordinator and/or Registration team.  We intend to pre-assign platoons before you join us in Ontario, so you will know who your platoon leader will be and what platoon you’ll be in before you arrive.

Events: Looking for an RFTW event near you?  Events can be found here.

Volunteers: Volunteers are still needed for positions!  If you’re interested, please sign up here!    Here are some positions that need to be filled:

Staging is still in need of people.

If you have skills with Route Planning, like making GPX files or are adept with Google Earth, please contact me directly.

Medical Team members are needed.  No specialized medical skills are needed.

Friends of Bill Coordinator.

Some of our positions need backups in case the primary person needs to drop out.

 

So, if you have any questions about any of the positions on the Run or about the Run itself, please reach out to me.  I’m only a phone call or email away.

Volunteer!

As said before, RFTW XXXVI is honoring the 35th Anniversary of the Gulf War with Operation Desert Shield which started on August 2,1990 and ended with the transition into Operation Desert Storm on January 17, 1991.  The Air Campaign prepared the battlefield for the ground operations which lasted about 100 hours ending on February 28, 1991.  US casualties during this conflict were 382 personnel in theater with 6 persons still missing and 6 persons unaccounted for.

Also, January 28 marks the 40th Anniversary of the Space Shuttle Challenger Incident.  Those that were around back in 1986 will probably remember where they were that day when a tragedy occurred 73 seconds after liftoff.  I was at NAS Sigonella, Italy, with my squadron preparing to fly aboard the USS Coral Sea to plan and take part in Operation El Dorado Canyon, which happened a few months later. But that is sea story for another time.

So, next time you visit the Arlington National Cemetery please honor their memory by stopping by the Space Shuttle Challenger Memorial in Section 46.

Mission Statement

To promote healing among all veterans and their family and friends

Call for an accounting of all Prisoners of War & Missing in Action (POW/MIA)

Honor the memory of those Killed in Action (KIA)

Support our military people all over the world.

 

Is it May yet?

Jim “Who?” McDonough
XXXVI Central Route Coordinator

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Midway Route Coordinator Newsletter – January 2026

RFTW Feature Midway Route

132 Days to KSU!

A very Happy New Year to you all! I hope everyone has had a very enjoyable holiday season with friends and family. It is hard to believe we are already into 2026 with just four months until we go kick stands up for the 36th Annual Run for the Wall, the 35th Anniversary of the Gulf War and the 100th Anniversary of Route 66 (America’s Highway).

IN GENERAL

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 and personal conversations, 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, TN.  This year we will be returning to Asheville, NC for our dinner and overnight stop.  The people of Asheville are still recovering from a catastrophic flood but are resilient and deserve our support and prayers. They are really looking forward to celebrating our mission with us again. Additionally, we have combined our last two days from last year into one while maintaining our breakout day in Cookeville, TN.

2026 ITINERARY

This year’s itinerary is almost complete and will be released soon so you know where we are going and what we are doing for 2026. Look for an announcement on it’s release soon. It will be full of exciting adventures for FNG’s and returning riders.

VOLUNTEERS

We are still in need of a few Volunteers (Active link).  If you are interested in participating as an Honor Guard Coordinator, please contact Randy Sheets at randy.sheets@rftw.us. Additionally, our Staging Team is looking for a few more personnel. Our Promotions Team could use a little assistance from someone who is good at sales. We are also looking to add a couple of more trained medical personnel for our medical team. If you have an interest in serving in this capacity or know someone who is, please fill out a volunteer application or you may contact Randy.Sheets@rftw.us. We also need some help with The Chase team. A pickup and trailer capable of carrying two motorcycles is required. No experience is necessary; training will be provided. I will pay for your fuel from Ontario to Springfield, VA as a chase vehicle.

REGISTRATION   

Registration (Active link) is still $100 per person through 31 January 2026.  After that, Regular Registration is from 01 February 2026 through 30 April 2026 and will increase to a cost of $120 per person.  Day riders (up to 3 days) is $100.00.  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. Save yourself some money, Do it now while you are thinking about it. It truly takes very little time to complete and helps your leadership prepare for our adventure.

PRE-PAID FUEL

I have chosen to increase the Prepaid Fuel cost for this year.  Coast to Coast will be $160 and it will be Mandatory. Even though gas prices have declined in certain parts of the country, the great concern and unknown is California. Refineries are closing and regulations are tightening on the remaining gas producers. To ensure we do not have to be financially constrained because of the uncertainty, I have increased the cost by $10.00 this year. If we find that we are financially OK, I will use any surplus to pay the cost of the fuel for the chase, Hydration and support vehicles, which are a route cost anyway. If you choose not to participate you will be fueling at a pump NOT controlled by the Midway fuel team. You will be issued a Pre-paid fuel sticker at registration by a fuel team member indicating that you have paid for fuel. This will be attached to your windshield (Clutch side) just below your platoon number. Not only is Prepaid fuel 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 (Most financial institutions have this capability), mark your payment 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 pay via check please mail it to:

Run for the Wall, Inc.
Attn: Midway Prepaid Fuel
50 Fourth Ave Unit 1445
Dayton, NV 89403

Be sure to state that your payment is for “Midway Prepaid Fuel” 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 EXCEPTIONS!

COOKEVILLE BREAKOUTS

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.

A SURPRISE GUEST

I have been in discussions with a very good friend who tells me he would like to come on the Midway route this year. I tell you this because he is a Medal of Honor recipient and truly a great patriot and gentleman. I have not received final confirmation yet, but I am excited that he would want to come with us this year. Our mutual friend tells me it is 95% assured unless some medical issue arises between now and KSU.

As soon as I get confirmation, I will let you all know. You will really enjoy getting to know this American Hero.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Topics on the RFTW Forums(Active link) 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.  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(Active link) on the RFTW website.

A WORD TO OUR GLOBAL WAR ON TERROR VETERANS

This great nation is losing our current veterans to self-harm at a rate of 22 to 30 a day. They have been raised in a country who’s founding documents guarantee as a right life, liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. Life is sacrosanct and our laws will not allow anyone taking another’s life without extreme punishment. Then you travel to countries where life is just a commodity and taken, at will, with no regard, in the most brutal ways. Not only combatants but women and children.

That is why I say that we are all wounded when we return from service where we are participating in conflict. Maybe not physically but mentally and psychologically as we try and deal with the realities of War. Some of our brothers and sisters cannot come to terms with that reality and their participation in it.

That is why we all need to get in contact with our brothers and sisters who we know are suffering and take them on this healing journey. They do not need to ride a motorcycle, they can ride in a car but they truly need to hear, see and feel the outpouring of support they will receive from the patriots all along the Midway route.

If we can help save just one, it will be worth the effort

GREAT PEARLS OF WISDOM

Weather permitting, get that bike out and ride. As much as you can. Take an advanced course to sharpen your skills. Practice “Throttle control”. Your fellow riders behind you will appreciate it.

Get your ride into the shop or if you are a wrench, go over your bike and ensure it is ready for a long trip. It is 3280 miles from Ontario to Springfield, VA. It will be time for an oil change when you arrive, Harley people.

It is time to make a New Years resolution that you will keep!!!!!

Get away from the holiday snacks (sugar). Start walking, working out, stretching or whatever you like to do as long as it involves moving your body.

Lastly for now, start forcing hydration. Lot of fluids!!!!!

Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!!!

Our Mission

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

“Say Their Name”      “Tell Their Story”         “ Never Forget”

Ed “Wind Dog” Brundage
Midway Route Coordinator 2025, 2026
Advanced Team Lead 2023 – 2024
Fuel Team Lead, Assist Team lead, Team Member 2015 – 2022
Central Route 2009 – 2013
FNG 2008

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Midway’s Mid-month Roundup – December 2025

‘Twas the night before Christmas, and all through the land, not a motor was stirring, except for Boots with a wrench in his hand (still fine tuning his new trans).

All the riders’ stockings were hung by the chimney with care, next to their pants, gloves, boots and coats still drying out from the day’s last wet run, in hopes that they’d be dry for the morning’s new day, new toys and more fun. 

The riders and bikes were nestled and parked, all snug in their beds and their stalls,
While visions of warmer days, longer rides, and May coming closer danced in their heads (and before we know it, it’ll be next week)

And I in my recliner, a spiked coffee in hand,
As I pull up past photos, Facebook posts and YouTube videos, and remember the fun from last summer, to help my brain cope through a long winter’s nap.

When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter, no it sounded like thunder; wait a minute, I recognize that rumbling sound from Harley’s down under, those are PIPEs!

I sprang from my chair, my coffee and phone still in each hand, being careful not to spill while turning off the flash to record in full scan.
Away to the front door I threw it open in a flash, letting all the cold air in, a bit of snow, and that darn cat.

The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow, gave the luster of mid-day to the objects below. But wait, there was no moon this night, so where was the glowing coming from; oh wait, now I can see, it was Ryan and his band of Road Guards close in behind him, two by two, and then by three.

And finally, a single lone rider trailed slightly to the rear, but larger than life, it was Midway’s RC, Wind Dog, and he even had his new beard. 
He whistled and he shouted, and called Ryan by name, “Guide us on in as all will need to hear, A message for all, as we approach the new year!”

“Calling all Platoon Leaders, APLs and Tail Gunners!
Chaplains, Outreach and Ambassadors as well!
All Medics, Hydration and Chase members!
Advance Teams, Fuel Teams, and Staging Teams too!
New riders and Old riders, FNGs and FOGs
State Coordinators, Photographer, and even the SITREP Writer too!
Prepare yourself for a new year, a fun year, and an incredible ride through and through!”

As they rode through the streets and spread their good cheer, 
A holiday message was becoming clear to hear.

‘Hold close your family, loved ones and friends,
Thank those that provide for us, protect us and care,
Keeping us free from tyranny, injustice and out of harm’s way.
Have yourself a Merry Christmas and remember the true meaning for which we come together on this day.’

He then turned back to his team and gave them a whistle,
And away they all rode, in formation and official. 
As they started away, I heard him exclaim with delight, “Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night!”

I slowly turned in and began to close the door, and I heard a final crackle of a voice, as if over a radio if by choice, “Midway! This ride is for you!”

I smiled to myself in a personal discussion, ‘this will be a great post’
had I only pressed that darn button…

-FNGs! (Fun New Guys/Gals)

All new riders! We will be having a FNG ZOOM meeting on Dec 16 at 5pm (Pacific Time). If you have not yet received an invite, please get with Roger Ford for details: roger.ford1234@gmail

-Midway Leadership Messages

Looking for a few good riders who are willing to step and support our mission in a leadership position. You can find volunteer sign up forms on the Midway web page. The following positions are available: Promotions Team, Medical team, Staging Team, Chase vehicle (Midway will pay for gas from Ontario to DC), Honor Guard Coordinator, Oklahoma Assistant state Coordinator.

2026 Hotel List

The 2026 hotel list will be available on the Midway web page on Jan 1st. 

Note* The host hotel rates are guaranteed with a contract, all other hotels rates are not guaranteed as time gets closer to KSU. They may change, which means you should make hotel reservations as soon as possible.

Registration

We currently have just over 125 personnel registered for this years adventure

Please do not forget your registration rates will increase on Feb 1st. Please take advantage of the early bird special currently in place. As a reminder:

 

$100.00 early bird, Now through Jan 31,2026 (Please register early)

$120.00 starting Feb 1,2026

$100.00 Day riders for up to three days

Why is the Midway route special?

Midway is a family-oriented route and your routes leaderships guiding principle is “Servant Leadership” which means everything your assigned leaders do is with you, the riders, in mind. We collectively want you to have a healing adventure that you will tell your grandchildren about and maybe influence them to come ride the Midway route in the future and see what Dad, Mom, G-Pa, G-Ma are so excited about. You will find those “Patriots” who built and defended America through all its past and current conflicts in its desire to spread the freedom we cherish, all across this great nation. You will ride with ‘Gold Star” family members. A Gold Star Family is defined as the immediate family of a U.S. military service member who died in the line of duty. 

Blue star family members,

Blue Star Families are the immediate families of U.S. military members currently serving during periods of conflict.

POW family members, Current active-duty servicemen/women, retired military from all branches, Public safety personnel from Law enforcement, Fire Department and many, many patriots.

 

Welcome to the family!!

 

As I am sure you can understand, developing this cross-country adventure is not cheap.

If you could possibly be so kind and to approach your Philanthropic section/department at work and see if they would be willing to support this great enterprise which is easily definable by showing our mission statement to all who will listen. Just donating enough for one fuel stop would help all riders tremendously. It would be greatly appreciated. Thank You!!!

 

If you find it within your heart to support RFTW Midway Route, please consider donating.  This will help make RFTW 2026 and the Gulf War Run a complete success. Ensure your donation is marked for the Midway route. Once again, and this is very important, please ensure “Midway Route” is marked on your donation.

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

Or mail a check to:
Run for the Wall Inc.
Midway Route
50 Fourth Ave Unit 1445
Dayton, NV 89403

Run For The Wall® Inc. EIN 36-4125559
Run For The Wall® is a 501(c)(3) tax deductible organization.

Until next time, 

Ride Smart

Ride Safe

Keep the rubber side down & the shiny side up!

 

~Is it May yet? Then again, everyday is May if you let it. 

Merry Christmas Everyone!

 

Ben ‘Stitch’ Noyce

Posted on by

December 2025 Central Route Coordinator Newsletter

The holiday season has begun, and amid shopping for gifts, family gatherings, and ongoing meetings, our RFTW preparations are progressing smoothly with 163 days remaining until KSU.

Here is a summary of the important reminders.

Registration Fees Increase: If you haven’t registered yet, please do so soon.  The registration fee will increase to $120 on February 1, 2026. Our Registration Teams and Platoon Leaders will start working on Platoon assignments after January 1st.  Do not delay!

Hotel Information: The list of available hotels is being prepared by the State Coordinators and is set to be released on January 1, 2026.

Events: Looking for an RFTW event near you?  Events can be found here.

Merchandise: Looking for that unique Holiday Gift?  The merchandise page is a great place to find RFTW gifts to put under the tree or motorcycle.

Volunteers: Volunteers are still needed for positions!  If you’re interested, please submit a sign up here!

Central Outreach Route Video: If ever wondered why the Outreach Team did or why they would eat and run, GI Jane and Spaniard produced a video documenting their interactions, representing all riders on the Run, with 53 Gold Star families during the last Run. It is located here:

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

Remember to honor and remember all those who serve and sacrifice for our country as well as to help those who are still fighting the war inside them.

My thoughts are with the 108 military personnel who died in service in 2025, and their grieving families who will have an empty seat at the table this year. As well as the approximately 200,000 active duty and reserve personnel currently serving overseas, many of which are away from their loved ones during the holidays.

Their sacrifice, dedication, and service to our Country is forever valued and will not be forgotten.

 

Mission Statement

To promote healing among all veterans and their family and friends
Call for an accounting of all Prisoners of War & Missing in Action (POW/MIA)
Honor the memory of those Killed in Action (KIA)
Support our military people all over the world.

The 126th Army-Navy Game honors the 250th Anniversary of the founding of the Army Navy with each team having their own special uniform for the event.

Go Navy! Beat Army!

Have a Happy Hanukkah and Merry Christmas!

Is it May yet?

Jim “Who?” McDonough
XXXVI Central Route Coordinator

Posted on by

Midway Route Coordinator Newsletter – December 2025

164 Days to KSU!

My Christmas wish to you

To friends who feel like family close,
You’re the people I love the most.
In laughter’s light, in joy we share,
You’re my rock, my solid care.
With every year, our bond grows strong,
Through merry right and every wrong.
Thank you, dear friends, for all you bring,
The joy of life, the song we sing.
So here’s a toast to holiday cheer,
Grateful for you, year after year.
Together, let’s make memories bright,
Merry Christmas to friends, pure delight.

May your Christmas be filled with joy and happiness shared with family and friends.

“Never forget the reason for the season”

For you new riders and FNGs, in the next coming month or two, you will be contacted by our Platoon Coordinator and your Platoon Leader.  We like to pre-assign platoons before you join us, so you will know who your platoon leader will be and what platoon you’ll be in.  You will be then able to get to know your platoon mates and leaders before you even show up.

Additionally, all FNG’s will be contacted by our FNG Coordinator and Missing Man Coordinator in the next month to start an education on the many opportunities afforded you as a member of the Midway family including probably a few zoom calls to pass on critical information and answer any of your questions.

The Missing Man Formation

The Missing Man Formation is a rolling salute to honor the memory of the fallen, KIA, MIA, or POW. Five bikes ride in formation with a space where one bike should be, symbolizing the person’s absence. On each leg of each route we honor a different individual in the Missing Man Formation. There is a short ceremony just prior to the departure of the pack and we SAY THEIR NAMES so that their service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

You will also notice that the riders participating in the Missing Man Formation do not wave at onlookers while riding in formation. Their ride is solemn and sincere – a rolling salute. This is the highest form of honor and respect and serves as a stark reminder of those who sacrificed their future for that of our nation. May their memories always be a blessing and may we never forget that freedom is not free.

RFTW Missing man formation

Route Planning

I can report that planning is going as smoothly as can be at this stage with us 6 months out from kickstands up in May 2026.  All our State Coordinators have finalized our overnight stays with our partner hotels from Arizona to Virginia (CA and DC Hotels are handled by the BoD), and they continue to work hard for fuel stops, donations, and working with our meal provider volunteers.

Arlington National Cemetery

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

Midway Route Honors

Remember, this is going to be a very special Run in 2026 because it is the 36th Annual Run of RFTW and it is the 35th Anniversary of the end of the Gulf War.  Again, as a reminder due to these special anniversaries, we are making an extra effort to salute and honor our Gulf War Veterans this year. Many made personal sacrifices on the altar of freedom. They are a major part of the reason we ride today.

The RFTW Forum is BACK and BETTER than ever!

This is where online RFTW discussion should happen.

The new and improved RFTW Forum is up and running.  This is the FIRST place you should go and ask online questions about RFTW, Routes, Discuss, etc.  It is a much better online community tool to keep topics organized. Facebook groups are great, but topics get lost in long threads. The RFTW Forum should be your first go to.  It’s yours, it’s free, so please go and register and use

 2026 Hotel List

The hotel list officially will be released in early January, exact date to follow. Remember, if some places are full, there are always neighboring hotels and options that may not be on the list. Let Google be your friend.

Register for the 2026 Run now

The Midway Route now has over 100 registered riders and participants. This is just a little less than we had at this time last year. This means that if you have not registered yet, please do so as soon as possible. Early registration helps us plan for our stops and hotel accommodations. Early registration ends on January 31, 2026, and registration costs increase on February 1, 2026. You can Register HERE.  If you are in leadership, please register now and Lead by example.  If you are an FNG, please register as early as you can.  We know plans can change. PLEASE REGISTER AS SOON AS POSSIBLE!!!!

We are one team and one family with a Mission.

Riders!  Now is the time to recruit participants for the 2026 Run.  You are all ambassadors and recruiters for the Run.  Please get the word out and actively promote the Run. Challenge your friends, join a local riding group and bring them with you. Put your significant other in the number two seat and bring them with you on this adventure.

This ride will be different from any you have done before. It will change you in many ways. All positive!!!!! There are SO many patriots out there that want to say “Thank You” and show you that they care about you. Lots of them want to give you a hug! I will never turn that down!!!

Our Mission

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

If you find it within your heart to support Run for the Wall and RFTW Midway Route, please consider making a donation.  This will help make RFTW 2026 and the Gulf War Run a complete success. Ensure your donation is marked for the Midway route

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

Or mail a check to:
Run for the Wall Inc.
Midway Route
50 Fourth Ave Unit 1445
Dayton, NV 89403

Run For The Wall® Inc. EIN 36-4125559
Run For The Wall® is a 501(c)(3) tax deductible organization.

I wish you and your families the very best this Christmas and Holiday Season and seeing you all in May 2026!

“Say Their Name”      “Tell Their Story”         “ Never Forget”

Ed “Wind Dog” Brundage
Midway Route Coordinator 2025, 2026
Advanced Team Lead 2023 – 2024
Fuel Team Lead, Assist Team lead, Team Member 2015 – 2022
Central Route 2009 – 2013
FNG 2008

Posted on by

November 2025 Central Route Coordinator Newsletter

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

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

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

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

Registration

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

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

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

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

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

Donations

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

Options to donate:

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

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

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

The RFTW Treasurer Official mailing address is:

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

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

Camping in Ontario:

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

November Events

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

Tun Tavern

 

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

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

 

Mission Statement

To promote healing among all veterans and their family and friends

Call for an accounting of all Prisoners of War & Missing in Action (POW/MIA)

Honor the memory of those Killed in Action (KIA)

Support our military people all over the world

 

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

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

Is it May yet?

Jim “Who?” McDonough
XXXVI Central Route Coordinator

Posted on by

Midway Route Coordinator Newsletter – November 2025

Midway Route

194 Days to KSU!

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

“Never forget the reason for the season”

 

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

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

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

Register for the 2026 Run now

The Midway Route now has just shy of 90 registered riders and participants. This is just a little less than we had at this time last year. This means that if you have not registered yet, please do so as soon as possible. Early registration helps us plan for our stops and hotel accommodations. Early registration ends on January 31, 2026, and registration costs increase on February 1, 2026. You can Register HERE.  If you are in leadership, please register now and Lead by example.  If you are an FNG, please register as early as you can.  We know plans can change. PLEASE REGISTER AS SOON AS POSSIBLE!!!!

We are one team and one family with a Mission.

Riders!  Now is the time to recruit participants for the 2026 Run.  You are all ambassadors and recruiters for the Run.  Please get the word out and actively promote the Run. Challenge your friends, join a local riding group and bring them with you. Put your significant other in the number two seat and bring them with you on this adventure.

This ride will be different from any you have done before. It will change you in many ways. All positive!!!!! There are SO many patriots out there that want to say “Thank You” and show you that they care about you. Lots of them want to give you a hug! I will never turn that down!!!

Looking to make a difference, in addition to riding?

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

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

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

FNG’S (Friendly new guys/Gals)

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

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

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

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

Gulf War Veterans

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

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

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

Check out the Forum

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

Platoon Assignments

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

Why We Ride

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

Midway Route Overpass

Our Mission

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

“Say Their Name”      “Tell Their Story”         “ Never Forget”

Ed “Wind Dog” Brundage
Midway Route Coordinator 2025, 2026
Advanced Team Lead 2023 – 2024
Fuel Team Lead, Assist Team lead, Team Member 2015 – 2022
Central Route 2009 – 2013
FNG 2008

Posted on by

Midway’s Mid-month Roundup – October 2025

October is here! The Fall chill is in the air, changing of the leaves are on the trees and now the road, as well as the need to thicken up the riding gear before we ride. It also marks the gateway of the Holiday season: Halloween, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and before you know it, 2026. Oh, how time flies.

And as we approach this holiday season, we all tend to get busy with our families and friends, get together and gatherings, dinners and celebrations, and I’m no different. But if I may request a simple gift, one that won’t cost but a little time, a warm handshake and/or hug, a smile and kind remark; that would be to visit a Veteran’s Home this holiday season. I promise it will make someone feel special and that they are not forgotten, not to mention making the heart of the greenest of grinches grow.

I had the pleasure of reaching out to Mr. Johnnie ‘Bravo 6’ Huddleston of Southern Route earlier about their group get-togethers and he sent their schedule of meeting up in November at a Veteran’s Home in Biloxi, Mississippi; a kind of ‘off-season’ outreach. To say the least I was awestruck. Here our group, as with so many others, would meet for lunch and discuss past and upcoming rides, help FNGs with the advice from FOGs (Funny Old Guys/Gals), and yes, sometimes the ‘fog’ does become a factor. But there in Mississippi folks are carrying on the mission well after and before May. What better example of what RFTW can there be? If interested in joining Bravo 6, you can reach out to him johnnie.huddleston@rftw.us.

I Googled “Veteran’s Home locations” and found so many across the great states of Tennessee, northern Mississippi, Alabama, and Georgia, and asked our group if they would be up for meeting for lunch and a ride to a home. 

It may be a simple gesture on our part, but it would mean the world to a veteran, more than many know. It also shows new riders what they can expect during our ride in May, especially during outreach missions. 

So, I ask you to get with your local group; RFTW, mc, Legion Riders, friends/family, and contact a local Veteran’s Home, ask when visiting dates and hours are, explain your group size (if applicable) and when you plan to visit. I can assure you; they’ll welcome you with open arms, and you’ll end your day with a smile knowing you gave a gift that means more to them than anything else; they aren’t forgotten.

-Meetup Schedules & Locations 

13 Arizona RFTW family meeting 11 October Dedicated to a great RFTW Brother, Michael ‘Wizard’ Turner, who passed away 3 weeks ago. Our Mission – Riding for Those Who Can’t

Arizona: Monthly Luncheon 11:30am every 2nd Saturday of each month at; Nov 8 @ 8415 W Carefree Hwy, Phoenix No RSVP Required.

Got a meetup schedule that you would like get out there? Contact me with dates & locations bnoyce1213@gmail.com

-FNGs! (Fun New Guys/Gals)

WELCOME TO THE RFTW FAMILY! You are the face of the future. Your participation, ideas, and commitment to the organization is our future of keeping the mission going. Please do not shy away from asking questions, participating in everything that you can, and becoming a member of the family. Please reach out to our FNG Liaison Officer Roger ‘Bullseye’ Ford at roger.ford1234@gmail.com for any comments, questions or concerns.

-Machine & Riding Tips

As the seasons begin to change, many folks are beginning to transition their riding techniques from summer riding to more technical methods. Although it’s a great opportunity to sharpen those skills of awareness and precaution; just remember as leaves change and fall on the road, rains wash sand and gravel into our paths, or even on those cool mornings with frost or even ice, all of these will change how we ride and plan our routes of travel.

Please plan accordingly, be smart, and be what I like to call ‘Road & Weather Wise’. Know your conditions as well as your limitations. Know your equipment and understand riding on replaced parts vs get a few extra miles on the worn ones. 

-Midway Leadership Messages

Be sure to watch Hitch & Boots on the RFTW Podcast each month. This year marks season 2 as they dive into Why We Ride with bios of fallen Hero’s, introducing key members of each route and Organization Leaders, provide excellent advice and information with Tech Tips with Ted, as well as other fun facts and bits of information. Links can be found in the ‘Connect’ tab on RFTW.US, YouTube, X (Twitter), TikTok, and even Facebook. 

Have a question, want to see what the latest discussions of the groups are, or maybe even just reach out to members across each route? Then you need to visit the RFTW Forum pages. An excellent source of information, past and present. No question to small, or group to bug, here we take care of each rider and any questions or concerns they may have. 

Facebook and other social media platforms are also available and another great source of information. Just please remember to be professional in your conversations. How we hold ourselves online can be and is seen by the public and perception is key. 

Were you an FNG on last year’s ride? Do you have an amazing story or experience that you would like to share? You never know, your words and/or experience may be what someone is looking for to make that choice and commit to this year’s run. Don’t think so? Just take a look at previous FNG stories posted on the site. Or better yet, do a web search on RFTW stories, you’ll find many more stories, videos, and even books written on the subject. Each ride has a way of bringing something out in everyone. Some choose to hold and cherish it while others need to share and let others know how the ride made them feel. Either way, it is a very powerful, spiritual, emotionally healing, and even therapeutic experience. 

“All Hands Effort” We are asking for everyone’s help in an effort to raise funds for the Midway Route this year. Our mission across this great nation is not only to make a visual statement or ride from coast to coast, but to help support the communities that strive so hard to support us. We visit schools in low-income communities where the kids eat their only healthy meals at school, provide students with the basic learning materials needed every day like pencils, paper, glue, books, and the list goes on. We visit veteran homes that have taken financial support cuts but still carry on their duties to our Hero’s to ensure they have everything that they need from transportation to healthcare, a decent shelter over their heads, support and interaction they so desperately long for. And every community that we roll into for fuel, lunch, visits, and even diner; all of these communities’ plan and save for months to support us and our missions every single mile we ride. Every group that we encounter and that support us, we in turn support them by donating funds to help and assist their cause and mission. 

These monies are raised from supporting businesses and contributors that you have helps secure while spreading our message and the reason why we ride, riding for those who cannot.

We are asking that all Midway Riders and supporters come together and help raise funds necessary to help our community families across the route. If you would like a Midway 501c3 letter to reach out to your donors, you can request one at ed.brundage@rftw.us and he will get one for you. With this you can reach out to a business and other donors where they can make all donations tax deductible.

Let’s make this year unforgettable in monies raised for Midway!

 

‘Service Before Self’ Many veterans may recognize this statement. This also rings true with any core value of ‘Integrity First, Service Before Self, Excellence In Everything We Do’ (yes I’m retired Air Force). We are looking for volunteers to step up and into leadership positions.  I promise you that volunteering will make the mission, ride, and overall participation so much more rewarding.

Call to Service – Positions & Contacts:

Risk Management Officer – Are you one that helps an organization in incident reports, safety management, and/or quality reviews and reports? – Contact Randy ‘Stinger’ Sheets randy.sheets@rftw.us 

Honor Guard Coordinator – Do you have a deep sense of patriotism, honor, and feel of pride for all services, veterans, and this great nation? – Contact Randy ‘Stinger’ Sheets randy.sheets@rftw.us 

Registration Lead – If you are great with meeting folks and getting them registered for an experience of a lifetime? – Contact Randy ‘Stinger’ Sheets randy.sheets@rftw.us 

Platoon Leaders – Are you a leader that loves making a difference while guiding and mentoring a platoon safety across the nation? – Contact Joe ‘JavaJoe’ Bookataub bookataub.joe@gmail.com 

Assistant Platoon Leaders – Are you ready to assist in leadership, mentoring, and riding safety? – Contact Joe ‘JavaJoe’ Bookataub bookataub.joe@gmail.com 

Platoon Tailgunners – If you are one that never leaves a person behind, mentors riders to help them become better, and help in the leadership of a platoon? – Contact Joe ‘JavaJoe’ Bookataub bookataub.joe@gmail.com 

Leadership Team Member Assistant – Are you good with numbers, detail oriented, looking to learn and become part of the leadership team? – Contact Holly ‘Shooter’ Thomas hothomas1@yahoo.com

-Registration & KSU (Kickstands Up)

Registration is open! Register as soon as you can to help leadership plan better. Remember, they need to let volunteers across each state know how many riders to expect so they can plan to assist us with our journey and mission. Fuel, food, lodging, escorts; all require a head count so their organizations can plan on how to assist us in getting everyone across this great nation safely. 

3 Coast to Coast Routes: Central, Midway, & Southern: May 13 – 23, 2026

Sandbox Route: May 24 – 26, 2026

 

Early Bird Registration Sep 11 – Jan 31

Coast to Coast: $100/person

Sandbox: $40/person

 

Regular Registration Feb 1 – May 

Coast to Coast: $120/ person

Sandbox: $60

Until next time, 

Ride Smart

Ride Safe

Keep the rubber side down & the shiny side up!

~Is it May yet? Then again, every day is May if you let it. 

 

Ben ‘Stitch’ Noyce