Category: Midway Route SitReps

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May 2026 Central Route Coordinator Newsletter

Well, it is finally May and some of you may be already on the road to Ontario, while others are still getting ready.  Whatever the case may be, it is RUN FOR THE WALL time!

In less than 2 weeks we will be kickstands up, “Riding for Those That Can’t,” heading east on our annual pilgrimage to our Nation’s Capital. The Central Route Team is ready and for 10 days we will be on the road together, where we will meet old friends, make new friends, have some awesome experiences, and tell some tall tales.

As always, please remember our Mission Statement:

 

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 final editions of the Schedule of Events for Ontario and Washington, D.C as well as the official 2026 Central Route Itinerary have been uploaded to the Central Hub. This is your 10-day schedule for May.  Read and understand it. A lot of time and hard work went into putting the events together.  Put it on your phone or print a hard copy for yourself.

Don’t forget about the these very important events:

Sunday, May 10th   Mother’s Day.

Monday May 11th    Mandatory FNGs meeting starting at 2 pm in Lot D

Tuesday May 12th   Mandatory ALL HANDS MEETING  starting at 2pm in the Citrus Room at the Holiday Inn

Wednesday, May 13   Be at Lot D, packed up, fueled up, checked out of your hotel, and ready to go. Reville starts at 5:55 am

Ontario Registration and Check In

Check in for riders start at 0900 Monday, May 11th at the Elks Lodge.  For those not starting in Ontario, the registration team will be available approximately 30 minutes before the pack arrives at the end of the day until 30 minutes or so after their arrival. I highly recommend you check in at registration in the evening. You can check in at registration in the morning, but you could be pressed for time trying to find your platoon, eat breakfast, get through all the introductions, and attend the mandatory morning meeting.

Remember, you will need to provide proof of a valid and current driver’s license, registration and insurance at check-in.

Emergency Contact Forms.  Although one is required, I highly suggest you have two. One on your person and the other somewhere in your bike.

If something happens to you and it requires you to be transported, the form that is on you will go with you to the hospital. The hospital staff will make their notifications but probably doesn’t know the status of your personal items or your bike.  With another form on the bike, RFTW representatives as well as Law Enforcement will know who to contact and what to do with your bike and personal items just in case you are incapacitated and are transported before a RFTW representative can arrive at the scene.

There will be alot of equipment to move around in Ontario. If you happen to arrive early and see people in RFTW hats carrying boxes, please ask if you can help. A tremendous amount of work has been going on behind the scenes since last July getting to where we are today. One aspect of the work is our equipment inventory.  Our last man coordinator, Tommy “Two Chains” is the ultimate pack rat since he inventoried and stored all the equipment you see in the photos below.

At least 8 boxes of plaques are also being delivered to his house.  Tommy cleans inventories and stores all this near his house, periodically checks on it and finally delivers it to Ontario in May. After the Run he brings it back to the LA area and starts the cycle all over again.

During the Run, there will be daily reports, known as SitReps written and posted by “Mama G” on social medial and the RFTW website.

To read the daily SitRep, and other important information about the Run, visit the Central Route Hub for more information. https://rftw.us/central-route-hub/

Volunteers

Staging is in desperate needs of volunteers as well as a Friends of Bill Coordinator! The work hours, pay and benefits package are probably one of the best on the Run.

One of our chase vehicles had to drop out due to mechanical issues. I know it’s late in the game but if someone has a truck and trailer able to haul a couple of motorcycles, please contact Tommy Two Chains at trcranford3@msn.com

If you are interested in volunteering to help on the Run, please let me know.

Donations

Part of what keeps this Run going is the generous Donations we receive from the Public and Run for the Wall family. RFTW is a 501(c)3 so if you know of anyone that wishes to donate, please direct them to our donation page. Donate – Run For The Wall®

During the Run, we have fundraising events to help our beneficiaries along the Run.  One of these events is our daily raffle where we have several awesome donated items to raffle off.

Bring cash for the Platoon Challenges, Service Bucket Challenges, 50/50 raffle and auction items. The money collected will all go to our charities along the way.

If the stuff you won in the auction doesn’t fit on your bike, don’t worry we can get it to D.C for you.

Fuel

If you did not sign up for the prepaid fuel option before May 1st (applies only to 2 and 3 wheeled vehicles), you will need to purchase a fuel sticker at registration for $65 cash. No cash is accepted at the gas pumps.  If you don’t have exact change, no change will be given at registration, and we thank you for your donation.  The money collected will cover your RFTW fuel stops from Ontario, CA to Washington, DC.  Thanks to our many donors across the country, whose generosity allows us to keep our fuel costs down. Without them our prepaid fuel costs would be much, much higher.

The Pre-Paid fuel costs also help defray the cost of fuel for our support vehicles, like the Chase Truck Team drivers, Last Man Vehicle, and Hydration Vehicle.

Day Rider rate for fuel will be $15 per day payable at registration.  Subject to change.

Purchase of the Fuel Sticker is mandatory.

You will purchase a fuel sticker, using CASH, at check-in when you pick up your registration materials in Ontario, or any of our overnight stops where you register and check-in.   You will then receive the sticker to put on your bike.

All Riders please remember to fill up your motorcycles each evening on your own, at your own cost, before arriving at staging in the morning (Spot checks will be happening).  If you do not have a full tank in the morning, you will be sent away to fuel, possibly missing breakfast and the mandatory morning rider meeting.

When we leave Ontario, CA we have our first gas stop Barstow, CA The next gas stop is Ludlow, CA  where at last report, the price of fuel is over $8.00 a gallon.  The gas stop after that is in Arizona next to Needles, CA,  where fuel is much cheaper than Ludlow.

The distance between Barstow and Needles, CA is 150 miles. Because of the high price of fuel in California, if you are able to make it from Barstow to Needles without fueling in Ludlow, it would be much appreciated in order to save our limited funds.

Again, if you feel the need to top off your tank in Ludlow, please do so. But if you can safely make it to Needles, please consider not topping off in Ludlow.

 

Kansas Turnpike

IMPORTANT: All riders and support vehicles will need to verify their license plate at the  time of check-in.  Otherwise, you may receive a toll bill from the Kansas Turnpike Authority.

If you have a DriveKS or KTAG account, you will need to deactivate the tag of the vehicle you will be using for RFTW before May 18, or you may get a toll charge.

If you tap out and do not catch up with the pack or deviate off of the turnpike and return, you may receive a toll bill in the mail.

 Morning Meetings

There have been some questions from those that do not wish to ride in the pack but want to participate in the RFTW activities.

If you have registered for the Run but choose not to ride with your assigned platoon, you must stay at least ¼ of a mile behind the last man vehicle. If you decide to ride ahead of the pack, you must do so at least 2 miles ahead of the Road Guard Captain and/or the police escort (if they are in front). By riding outside of the pack, you will not have the support of the chase vehicles, in case you have a mechanical issue or medical emergency.

AGAIN, regardless of where you ride, if you have REGISTERED for the RFTW and wish to partake in the RFTW EVENTS for that day, you must attend the Morning meetings!

There will be a mandatory rider meeting every morning.  This meeting is to inform the riders of any changes to schedule and any other issues that may have come up the previous day.

Morning meetings are mandatory.

 

Springfield, VA and Washington, D.C.

Friday May 22 Springfield Arrival

We arrive in Springfield, VA with the Southern Route and the Midway Route will arrive approximately 1 hour later. It is tradition and custom to greet the arriving riders,  so make yourself available to line alongside the road leading to the parking garage to greet the Midway Riders.

You will be allowed to check into your hotel after the closing ceremony at 5pm

There will be a shuttle from the host hotel in Springfield to the American Legion.

Saturday, May 23

A group Picture of all the cross-country routes will be in front of the Lincoln Memorial at 9 am.

After that we walk to the Vietnam Memorial to pay our respects and lay our RFTW Plaque at the apex.  We will then be “MC.” (Mission Complete)

Parking in D.C.  

Unfortunately, no reserved parking is available this year.  I would recommend you take some form public transportation (Uber, Metro, etc.) to the Lincoln Memorial/Vietnam Wall where our group photo takes place and where we honor our fallen at the wall. If you decide to ride to the Lincoln Memorial/Vietnam Veterans Memorial, you must park in a legal parking area. Do not park on the grass, in no parking zones, on the sidewalk, etc. If you park there, you may be subject to your bike being ticketed or impounded.  Also, the LEO may notice your RFTW stickers, banners, etc. and make a report of that, possibly jeopardizing future RFTW events in the area.  It is the 250th anniversary of the founding of our country, and there will be other Veterans and tourist groups present during the Memorial Day weekend in D.C. so it will be a busy, crowded weekend and parking will be limited.

Arlington National Cemetery and the Tomb of the Unknown

As in the past, RFTW has been granted access for 75 motorcycles to enter the Arlington National Cemetery and lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Central has been allocated 28 motorcycles with 56 seats available to enter these  hallowed grounds. The priority for those to represent the Central Route will be FNG’s. If you are interested let your Platoon Leader or FNG Coordinator know. Depending on the numbers received we may have to have a lottery system to determine who will go.

If you are selected for riding into Arlington National Cemetery, remember that anyone over the age of 18 entering the cemetery on a motorcycle —to include both rider and passenger—must present a REAL ID-compliant identification at the security check point.

Visitors who arrive by vehicle and park in the Welcome Center parking garage, walk, take the Metro or use a ride share service to ANC will not be required to present a REAL ID, as they will be required to go through standard physical security screening within the Welcome Center.

REAL ID-compliant is a state-issued REAL-ID or these other forms of acceptable identification:

DoD Common Access Card

DoD Uniformed Services ID Cards (military retiree or dependent ID)

Local DoD Access Cards and Passes (i.e. Defense Biometric Identification System Card)

U.S. or Foreign Passport or Passport Cards

Transportation Worker Identification Cards

Veteran’s Health Identification Cards

Federal Personal Identify Verification Cards

Non-Federal PIV-Interoperable Cards

State-issued Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) or Enhanced Identification Card (EID)

An acceptable photo ID issued by a federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe, including Enhanced Tribal Cards (ETCs).

No Weapons of any kinds including knives!

Do not bring your GMRS radio!

 

Rolling to Remember

Rolling to Remember previously known as Rolling Thunder.  For those not participating in Sandbox, Rolling is an event you may wish to participate in. This is not an RFTW-sanctioned event and participation is entirely voluntary.  Please read April 2026 President’s Message for more information about this and the wreath laying at ANC.

 

AAR’s

After Action Reports (AAR). You will be hearing more about this in the future, but it is your opportunity as a participant in RFTW to provide feedback about your experience on the Run, both good and bad. All AAR’s are taken seriously and read by the Board and Route leadership. AAR’s in the past have resulted in changes in operating procedures. So your feedback matters.

 

REMEMBER TO HYDRATE!

CHECK YOUR GEAR!

PLAN FOR RIDING IN COLD, WET OR HOT WEATHER!

GET YOUR SERVICE DONE!

It’s time to kick the tires and light the fires for RFTW XXXVI!

How far are we going?

See you all in Ontario!

Jim “Who?” McDonough
XXXVI Central Route Coordinator

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Midway Route Coordinator Newsletter – May 2026

2026 RFTW Group Photo End Of Mission

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

We are now just 13 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 10-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 pre-paid fuel option is now closed.  You can only pay cash at check-in at Ontario. There are no credit card options. 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 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.

Ontario and Springfield Schedule of events

A copy of both the Ontario and Springfield schedule of events are available on the RFTW website – Midway page on the menus on the left-hand side of the page. In addition, each of your team/Platoon leaders has been given a copy of the Ontario schedule of events. 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 in Ontario, if you wish to use it.

Registration

Believe it or not, there are still individuals who have not registered for the run. The process for registration is new this year. Please be patient as we work within this new system.

Registration will be conducted each evening immediately after dinner for new riders.

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 23 May at 0900. You need to be there early to find a good location for the photo. Parking will be strictly enforced this so please park your bike only in designated areas or uber or cab to 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 20 motorcycles with 39 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.  FNG’s only will be allowed this year!

Friendly reminder for ANC riders

You are not allowed to have any weapons on you or a GMRS radio on your motorcycle. In addition, you must have your state “Real ID” or a passport on your person to enter a federal installation.

Please contact your platoon leader or FNG Coordinator for additional details

Rolling to Remember

RFTW group will depart ALP on Sunday, May 26th after Sandbox Route has cleared the parking lot. Anyone who is registered for one of the RFTW C2C or Sandbox routes and, are not going on Sandbox, can come for the morning breakfast buffet at the ALP. Breakfast will end when Sandbox departs, RTR event staging area is at the Pentagon North Parking lot. Bring cameras, snacks, sunscreen and lots of water.

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 2026, please remind them that there are very few 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 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
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 – April 2026

As I write this final Mid-month Roundup before our 2026 RFTW, a realization of fact that we have less than 30 days until Kick Stands Up (KSU). Are you ready to ride both physically and mentally?

Let’s run through a few areas that are often overlooked, undervalued, or just forgotten all together. On the bright side, you have almost a month to practice just a little more.

Group Riding – we’ll be riding in staggered formation and for most riders, this is something not usually performed but maybe once a year. Midway’s formations are simple, staggered formation at speed, following two seconds behind the person in front of you. The person just off to either your right or left side is two seconds from the person in front and one second off from you. There are only a few ways to practice this, actual group riding with two or more motorcycles, riding in traffic that may or may not be cooperative, or following a family member or friend in a car and being knowledgeable of what it is you are trying to accomplish. It sounds easy, but for some it can be very challenging. But for anyone you can get used to it, relaxed, and even placed into a trance like state. Used to it or not, practice is vital and key.

Lane Tracking – normally a rider enjoys the freedom of an entire lane to maneuver within giving many options of evasion and escape if the time comes for it. In group riding this is restricted down to half of a normal lane placing you in lanes 1 and 3 as shown in the image. In this placement, usually all debris is clear but can lead to some tire tracking and pavement cracking, keeping the need of a vigilant rider at all times. Maneuvering around obstacles can be done but awareness of your surroundings and other riders is very important.

Hand Signals – while riding in formation, a rider relies on the folks ahead to pass on information about what is up ahead. Usually, a single rider can see a hazard in the distance and can prepare for it, however in a pack visibility is limited and hand signals become very important. Just as you will rely on the signals given to you by the rider ahead of you, the riders behind you will rely on you to pass it back. Remember, communication is vital in groups, and this is no different. Hand signals and meanings can be found listed in the daily itinerary booklet. To say some are more important than others would be a lie. All of them carry the same weight and information value. Tapping in or out, signaling for help or assistance needed, to speeding up or down to hazards in the road, all are necessary to know l, understand, and practice using to pass along while in formation. Using them while riding everyday not only will help you remember and provide practice but are common enough for general motorists to understand and appreciate as well.

Engine Breaking – human beings are reactive creatures by nature and while driving is no different. If you’ve ever been in traffic that is backed up for a while, the worst thing anyone can do way up front is tap their brakes. A chain reaction will ensue creating a slinky effect that will only magnify the further it goes back. The same thing happens while group riding as well. If you find yourself riding a little too close to the person in front and want to slow down, maybe you’ll gently apply a little trail brake to slowly bring you back to the 2-second mark. You didn’t even apply that much brake that normally no one would notice your speed change. But the instant your finger ever so gently squeezed the brake lever, your bright red brake light came on signaling a warning light to everyone behind you that had a direct eye shot of your light. They instantly grab their breaks to prevent any type of incident from occurring with them involved. In an instant the brake lights pop on in warning signaling more behind them that there is some sort of danger ahead, you need to slow down and prepare yourself to avoid any issues. Even though you barely applied any brake at all, the rest of the group behind you is now trailing away in anticipation of an unexpected encounter. The riders directly behind you are now realizing the light didn’t actually mean impending doom and are now trying to catch up, creating a distance between them and the riders behind them. Shortly after they begin to accelerate, the riders behind them follow suit and increase their speed, and the cycle continues on back. Meanwhile, the riders behind you catch up so quickly that they now instinctively apply their brakes to slow them up and start the whole process all over again.

We’ve all done it. To remedy this situation, rather than slightly touching the brake, slowly let off the throttle. Control your speed with your wrist being careful not to over rotate one way or the other. This could also create a slingshot/slinky effect if over performed. Now by all means, if you need to use your brake, use it. Just use your light sparingly.

Highway Pegs – as we ride across the desert, plains, and even through the mountains, eventually you’ll get comfortable riding in the group and want or even need to stretch your legs out. If you have a pair of highway pegs, letting them down and stretching out to or even over the top is a feeling like no other on long rides. The only critical aspect of having them is the need to be able to raise and lower them with your feet. Although they are a nice relaxing feature on the road, they can be a severe hazard when coming into fuel or even staging with the group. If anyone can recount striking their shin or knee across a hitch that is on the back of a vehicle, then you can imagine the pain of either a peg or sometimes a claw reaching out and striking a leg as you wheel by. Down pegs a severe safety hazard, especially when refueling as people could get injured while refueling operations are in progress. Please make sure they can be lowered and raised by feet pressure, and if not, please either remove or store them in their upright position.

Cruise Control – most modern motorcycles now come with some form of cruise control as a standard or aftermarket feature. Although these are comfort systems, please do not use them while riding in the group. As you will come to know you will need to adjust your speed continuously and at a moment’s notice. The response between throttle and cruise control are not the same and only the throttle shall be used.

Radios – how many times have you stopped at a light and up beside you another bike rolls in with their music blaring so loud that you couldn’t hear your own bike? I understand when you are at highway speed the music needs to be turned up to hear it over the wind. But, when group riding many riders have helmet coms installed, not for the music but radio communications. Anyone can have this capability to communicate with others within their platoon or to listen in on the leadership (listen only). However, leadership is required to listen and communicate at all times in order to keep the group safe and on track. Another important broadcast over the GMRS radios just before leaving a stop is the reading of the Missing Man Bio, a solemn moment that all should hear prior to starting up your engines. So, while we are in group formation, please keep the external music off and/or listen through a headset. For more information on GRMS radios and/or headsets, please contact your leadership or read the information available on the forum pages.

Luggage & Loading – as with any trip, luggage is an essential part of planning and execution. The only downside to a bike trip is the need to downsize the luggage as well. Think about this a minute: most riders are used to riding by themselves and with no luggage, while others are used to riding two up but again, no luggage, even trikes and bikes with trailers. Now add luggage. For a single rider, your machine will behave similarly to having a passenger. And for this riding two up, now you have more weight that will also change the way your machine will handle. Now it may sound crazy, but pack your bag in advance, even if it isn’t the outfits you’ll take with you. Pack your machine to something similar if not exactly to what you will travel with and ride with it prior to the trip. Understand what and how the differences affect the handling of your machines. You will also find that you will pack a couple of times, realizing what you want and what you can actually bring may be two totally different things. Don’t worry, if the most experienced riders do it. Just remember, your bike has a load limit. This includes you, your passenger, your equipment and accessories, and your luggage. It all adds up quickly. The last thing to remember when loading your bike is to ensure everything is secure. The last thing you want is to get to your destination and realize that you don’t have something anymore because you lost it miles back. You definitely don’t want it picked up by a fellow rider, that is how road names are given. Most importantly you don’t want to find out that your lost luggage caused an accident behind you. Secure your load, ensure it is secure, and triple check it again. Don’t believe me? Just ask DuctTape, ZipTie, or Bungee; they’ll all tell you their experiences.

And if you haven’t already been riding to get your saddle in the shape over long distances, you best get going. Watching riders trying to get off their bikes at the end of the first few days because they didn’t get their ‘saddle training’ in is quite the site. (Just remember road names are earned this way)

Registration – IT IS TIME. If you haven’t registered, you need to do it now.

Pre-Paid Fuel – Mandatory. Paying now allows you to use Zelle. If you wait until you check in, CASH ONLY.

Folks, it is crunch time. Please make your final preparations, registrations, and updates. We are less than 30 days out. Time to ‘Sit or Git’.

 

Hope to see everyone safely in Ontario or along the way.

As always

Ride Safe

Rids Smart

And keep the shiny side up!

 

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

Less than 30 days away….

Ben ‘Stitch’ Noyce

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April 2026 Central Route Coordinator Newsletter

It’s only 42 Days to KSU! Have you started planning your route to get to Ontario and back home? Have you checked your motorcycle and gear? Did you make sure you made all the necessary hotel reservations? Have you uploaded the latest updates to your phone, radio, and GPS?

The time will fly by, and before you know it, we will be in Ontario. Currently, the Central Route has 330 people registered with 96 FNG’s!

It’s starting to get real!  The Schedule of Events for Ontario and Washington, D.C as well as the official 2026 Central Route Itinerary have been uploaded to the Central Hub. This is your 10-day schedule for May. Read and understand it. Put it on your phone or print hard copy for yourself.

If you wish to print a hard copy BOOKLET for yourself, use the PRINT BOOKLET Option with Adobe Acrobat or Acrobat Reader.

The March 2025 newsletter has instructions for viewing the itinerary on your Apple/Android phone.

Take the time to look at the information in the itinerary regarding times and places to be.  Pay particular attention to any item in Green which refers to the Central Route.

Registration and Check In

Check in for riders start at 0900 Monday, May 11th at the Elks Lodge.  For those not starting in Ontario, the registration team will be available approximately 30 minutes before the pack arrives at the end of the day until 30 minutes or so after their arrival. I highly recommend you check in at registration in the evening. You can check in at registration in the morning, but you could be pressed for time trying to find your platoon, eat breakfast, get through all the introductions, and attend the morning meeting.

If you need to cancel your registration, please send an email to Lance Wheeler at risk.management@rftw.us.  It will help Registration adjust the Platoon numbers so that they are not grossly uneven, as well as the volunteer groups that feed us so that there isn’t any wasted food.

Go the Central Route Hub for more information.

Rolling to Remember

Rolling to Remember previously known as Rolling Thunder.  For those not participating in Sandbox, Rolling is event you may wish to participate. This is not an RFTW-sanctioned event and participation is entirely voluntary.  Please read April 2026 President’s Message for more information about this and the wreath laying at ANC.

 

Arlington National Cemetery and the Tomb of the Unknown

As in the past, RFTW has been granted access for 75 motorcycles to enter the Arlington National Cemetery and lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Central has been allocated 28 motorcycles with 56 seats available to enter these  hallowed grounds. The priority for those to represent the Central Route will be FNG’s. If you are interested let your Platoon Leader or FNG Coordinator know. Depending on the numbers received we may have to have a lottery system to determine who will go.

Volunteers

Staging still needs volunteers!

If you are interested in volunteering to help on the Run, please let me know. I could use backups for all positions in case someone has to cancel or drop out from the Run.

Donations

Part of what keeps this Run going is the generous Donations we receive from the Public and Run for the Wall family. RFTW is a 501(c)3 so if you know of anyone that wishes to donate, please direct them to our donation page. Donate – Run For The Wall®

During the Run, we have fundraising events to help our beneficiaries along the Run.  One of these events is our daily raffle where we have several donated items to raffle off.  We still need donated items to raffle off, so if you are able to gather any donated items from local motorcycle dealers or other businesses it would be much appreciated. Please send me an email if you do get any donated items.

Update

From Carol our RFTW California State Coordinator, “On your way to Ontario stop at the Spotlight 29 Casino and Shelee’s for fuel.  Both have yummy food and snacks they are rolling out the red carpet for RFTW SR on the first fuel stop. Media advertising at the pumps, digital billboards, etc. They are so touched with our Mission and want to do more each year. Take time to stop say hi and tell them that you are with RFTW and to thank them for their support!”

To reiterate items from last month.

Pre-Paid Fuel

Central Route will be having Pre-Paid Fuel for 2026 is $65.00 per motorcycle or trike.  The money collected will cover your RFTW fuel stops from Ontario, CA to Washington, DC.  Thanks to our many donors across the country, whose generosity allows us to keep our fuel costs down. Without them our prepaid fuel costs would be much, much higher.

The Pre-Paid fuel fee also helps defray the cost of fuel for our support vehicles, like the Chase Truck Team drivers, Last Man Vehicle, and Hydration Vehicle.

There are two ways to pay for the pre-paid sticker prior to April 30th

ZELLE –  email addresses for Central Route is: central.route@rftw.us

It is important not to miss the . (period) before “route”

CHECK – Checks should be made out to “Run For The Wall, Inc.” Make sure you enter ”Central Route Prepaid Fuel” in the check’s memo section on the check or by accompanying paperwork.

The RFTW Treasurer Official mailing address is:

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

After April 30th, you will need to wait until you check in at registration desk.

You will need to purchase a fuel sticker, using CASH, at check-in when you pick up your registration materials in Ontario, or any of our overnight stops where you register and check-in.   You will then receive the sticker to put on your bike.

Exact change only. No change will be given at the registration desk.

All Riders please remember to fill up your motorcycles each evening on your own, at your own cost, before arriving at staging in the morning (Spot checks will be happening).  If you don’t have a full tank in the morning, you will be sent away to fuel, possibly missing breakfast and the morning rider meeting.

Kansas Turnpike

IMPORTANT: All riders and support vehicles on Central Route that register online after April 30th MUST notify the Registration team at time of check-in so they can correctly enter your vehicle’s State and license plate number.  Otherwise, you may receive a toll bill from the Kansas Turnpike Authority.

If you have a DriveKS or KTAG account, you will need to deactivate the tag of the vehicle you will be using for RFTW before May 18, or you may get a toll charge.

A huge thank you goes to CVMA 21-4 for covering our tolls on the Kansas Turnpike.

If you miss the morning rider meeting, you cannot ride with the pack for that day.

Morning Meetings

There have been some questions from those that do not wish to ride in the pack but want to participate in the RFTW activities.

If you have registered for the Run but choose not to ride with your assigned platoon, you must stay at least ¼ of a mile behind the last man vehicle. If you decide to ride ahead of the pack, you must do so at least 2 miles ahead of the Road Guard Captain and/or the police escort (if they are in front). By riding outside of the pack, you will not have the support of the chase vehicles, in case you have a mechanical issue or medical emergency.

AGAIN, Regardless of where you ride, if you have REGISTERED for the RFTW and wish to partake in the RFTW EVENTS for that day, you MUST attend the Morning meetings!

There will be a mandatory rider meeting every morning.  This meeting is to inform the riders of any changes to schedule and any other issues that may have come up the previous day.

Again, this morning meeting is mandatory.

Parking in D.C.  

Unfortunately, no reserved parking is available this year.  I would recommend you take some form public transportation (Uber, Metro, etc.) to the Lincoln Memorial/Vietnam Wall where our group photo takes place and where we honor our fallen at the wall. If you decide to ride to the Lincoln Memorial/Vietnam Veterans Memorial, you must park in a legal parking area. Do not park on the grass, in no parking zones, on the sidewalk, etc. If you park there, you may be subject to your bike being ticketed or impounded.  Also, the LEO may notice your RFTW stickers, banners, etc. and make a report of that, possibly jeopardizing future RFTW events in the area.  There will be other Veterans and tourist groups present during the Memorial Day weekend in D.C. so it will be a busy, crowded weekend and parking will be limited.

A reminder that all Camping Spots are full at the Elks Lodge in Ontario. See the notice here

After Action Reports (AAR). You will be hearing more about this in the future, but it is your opportunity as a participant in RFTW to provide feedback about your experience on the Run, both good and bad. All AAR’s are taken seriously and read by the Board and Route leadership. AAR’s in the past have resulted in changes in operating procedures. So your feedback matters.

GMRS Radios Links

**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 body ready and start getting in the habit of HYDRATING!

If you haven’t already, start riding and get your service done!

Tolle moras. Semper nocuit differre paratis

(Avoid delays: procrastination always does harm)

Get ready for RFTW XXXVI!

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

EA-6B break

 

Posted on by

Midway Route Coordinator Newsletter – April 2026 – Corrections!

RFTW Rider Survey

With apologies to all – I have two corrections to the April MR RC Newsletter.

1) Under Paragraph “End of Mission at the Wall” I mention the RFTW group photo at the Lincoln Memorial will be on May 24. The correct date is May 23!

2) Under paragraph “Rolling to Remember” I state the group leaves the American Legion Post on the morning of May 25. The correct date is May 24!

Thank you all for keeping me honest. 

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 Route Coordinator Newsletter – April 2026

RFTW Rider Survey

May is just around the corner. We are now just 43 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 10-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, rain gear 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 is open. It is MANDATORY this year. 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 $160.00 payment to Midway.Route@rftw.us. Remember to add “Midway Pre-paid fuel 2026″ in the memo line.

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 will be published shortly and will be 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.

Additionally, Safety instructions, Fueling procedures and friendly reminders of how we  conduct ourselves as representatives of Run for the Wall will be provided.

Pre-Run and Post-Run itineraries

All Pre-run (Ontario) and Post run (Springfield) itineraries have now been posted on the website. Please thoroughly review each one for required meetings, team meetings, registration times and locations, motorcycle repair facilities, events schedules, Sandbox meeting schedules, dinner arrangements, Riverside National Cemetery ride, the Marine Corps Band, ANC ride, RFTW picture location and time, RFTW  2026 ENDEX ceremony at the Apex of the Vietnam Memorial Wall and much more.

Registration

Surprisingly, There are still individuals who have not registered for the run. I personally know of 8 personnel who have waited because of potential family issues, but the time is now. Please go to the website and register as soon as possible. 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

Hotel Reservations Reminder

As a friendly reminder, if you have not yet made your hotel reservations, please be aware that on May 1, the host hotels will release any remaining unused RFTW room blocks back into their standard inventory. This means that after this date, rooms previously set aside for RFTW participants may no longer be available, and you could have difficulty securing accommodations at the host hotels. To ensure you have a place to stay during the event, it is strongly recommended that you complete your hotel reservations as soon as possible.

End of Mission at the Wall

The RFTW picture at the Lincoln Memorial will be on 23 May at 0900. You need to be there early to find a good location for the photo. The Park Police informed us that they will be closely monitoring parking in marked areas this year and will issue citations for violations.  With that said, unless you really wish to ride your bike to the picture, cabs and uber are always available and relatively cheap if you divide the cost 4 ways. 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 39 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 are my target population for this lottery. If you are interested, please contact your platoon leadership and give them your name. Staging for ANC will commence at 1330 on May 23 in the Pentagon south parking lot, I-395, exit 8B

More to follow on additional details

Rolling to Remember

If you’re not participating on the Sandbox route, you can join R2R (Rolling to Remember) for a ride around the Mall in Washington DC. Formerly called Rolling Thunder, this is not an RFTW event but you may ride with R2R voluntarily. A group leaves from the American Legion Post on the morning of the 24th, with staging starting after the Sandbox group’s 0715 departure (ETD: 0730).

Make sure you keep the ribbon on your clutch side mirror or your rftw wristband to get premier staging up in the front of the formation right behind the AMVETS group. This was arranged this year by your RFTW leadership in discussions with the AMVETS leadership. Bring your camera, snacks, sunscreen, and water.

Donations

As always, Donations are still welcome for the Midway route. Please share this with organizations, veteran groups, or friends who may wish to support us—RFTW is a 501(c)3 nonprofit. If any group plans to donate, remind them we are 42 days from KSU.

I’m excited for this year’s Midway route. The leadership team has worked hard to make your journey safe and smooth. They embody our guiding principle of “servant leadership”, so if you can, thank them with a handshake – they deserve it.

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.

As always, if you have any questions, recommendations, concerns or you just want to clear up some things you are thinking about, contact your team leader, Platoon leader, FNG Coordinator etc. and please have that discussion. The RFTW Forum is also a great place to openly discuss issues or ask questions across all 4 routes.

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

“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

March 2026 Central Route Coordinator Newsletter

The Run for the Wall is about healing and for those that are continuing on the Sand Box Route, this will become evident when you are at the Middle East Conflicts Wall; as it is a living wall, with more names being added each year to honor our fallen.

In light of recent events, my thoughts and prayers go out to our military personnel who lost their lives in service to our nation as well as their grieving families during this darkest of times.

Unfortunately, their names will now also be added to that Wall in Marseilles and I will look for them, as I do for all my friends and acquaintances on that Wall. Please remember and honor them.

Prayers also being said to those that were wounded; that they heal quickly and become whole once again and that their families have the strength to see them all through this.

Finally, prayers of safety to all our military personnel, some of whom are in harm’s way and of course to their families who keep the home fires lit waiting for their return.

May they all return home safe.

 

 

March is here!

Remember to set your clocks ahead next Sunday (except Arizona). It is now 73 days to KSU from Ontario!

Registration for the Run is now $120. For those riding 3 days or less, $100.  We currently have 313 registered with 90 FNG’s!

There has been a flurry of activity over the last month, and your Central Route leadership has been busy.  Our Platoon Coordinator is still assigning and adjusting Platoons, and some Platoon leaders have started meeting with their platoons. Our itinerary just needs a few more tweaks before it can be released.

As a note, all Route itineraries will be released on the same day.

 

Kansas Turnpike

IMPORTANT: All riders and support vehicles on Central Route that register online after April 30th MUST notify the Registration team at time of check-in so they can correctly enter your vehicle’s State and license plate number.  Otherwise, you may receive a toll bill from the Kansas Turnpike Authority.

If you have a DriveKS or KTAG account, you will need to deactivate the tag of the vehicle you will be using for RFTW before May 18, or you may get a toll charge.

A huge thank you goes to CVMA 21-4 for covering our tolls on the Kansas Turnpike.

 

Pre-Paid Fuel

This year the Central Route will be having Pre-Paid Fuel again and for 2026 the cost will be $65.00 per motorcycle or trike.  The Fuel sticker takes care of your fuel costs during your riding day on the Run. The money collected will cover your RFTW fuel stops from Ontario, CA to Washington, DC.  A heartfelt thanks goes out to our many donors across the country, whose generosity allows us to keep our fuel costs down. Without them our prepaid fuel costs would be much, much higher. Unless you have an electric engine or hydrogen fuel cell, I don’t think you’ll find a better deal for premium gas.

The Pre-Paid fuel fee also helps defray the cost of fuel for our support vehicles, like the Chase Truck Team drivers, Last Man Vehicle, Hydration Vehicle and support vehicles.

There are two ways to pay for the Fuel sticker prior to April 30th:

ZELLE –  email addresses for Central Route is: central.route@rftw.us

It is important not to miss the . (period) before “route”

CHECK – Checks should be made out to “Run For The Wall, Inc.” Make sure you enter ”Central Route Prepaid Fuel” in the check’s memo section on the check or by accompanying paperwork.

The RFTW Treasurer Official mailing address is:

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

Your fuel sticker will be waiting for you at check-in.

After April 30th, you will need to wait until you check in at registration desk and purchase a fuel sticker, using CASH, when you pick up your registration materials in Ontario, or any of our overnight stops where you register and check-in.   You will then receive the sticker to put on your bike.

Exact change only. No change will be given at the registration desk.

REMEMBER, AFTER APRIL 30TH, NO CHECKS, CREDIT,  DEBIT, or GIFT CARDS ACCEPTED! THIS ALSO INCLUDES FT’S,  NFT’S, AND FOREIGN CURRENCY!

A daily prorated rate for day riders will be determined at a later time.

All Riders please remember to fill up your motorcycles each evening on your own, at your own cost, before arriving at staging in the morning (Spot checks will be happening).  If you don’t have a full tank in the morning, you will be sent away to fuel, possibly missing breakfast and the morning rider meeting.

If you miss the morning rider meeting, you cannot ride with the pack for that day.

 

Morning Meetings

There have been some questions from those that do not wish to ride in the pack but want to participate in the RFTW activities.

If you have registered for the Run but choose not to ride with your assigned platoon, you must stay at least ¼ of a mile behind the last man vehicle. If you decide to ride ahead of the pack, you must do so at least 2 miles ahead of the Road Guard Captain and/or the police escort (if they are in front). By riding outside of the pack, you will not have the support of the chase vehicles, in case you have a mechanical issue or medical emergency.

AGAIN, Regardless of where you ride, if you have REGISTERED for the RFTW and wish to partake in the RFTW EVENTS for that day, you must attend the Morning meetings!

There will be a mandatory rider meeting every morning.  This meeting is to inform the riders of any changes to schedule and any other issues that may have come up the previous day.

Again, this morning meeting is mandatory.

Merchandise

If you have been on the fence about our limited-edition Central Route shirt, pre-sales for this once in a lifetime shirt will end on March 15th.  Some of the proceeds will go to the Central Route for our route expenses. This shirt will not be for sale in Ontario or along the Run.

The Schedule of Events for Ontario and Washington, D.C, will soon be published.

 

Parking in D.C.

Unfortunately, no reserved parking is available this year.  I would recommend you take some form public transportation (Uber, Metro, etc.) to the Lincoln Memorial/Vietnam Wall where our group photo takes place and where we honor our fallen at the Wall. If you decide to ride to the Lincoln Memorial/Vietnam Veterans Memorial, you must park in a legal parking area. Do not park on the grass, in no parking zones, on the sidewalk, etc. If you park there, you may be subject to your bike being ticketed or impounded.  Also, the LEO may notice your RFTW stickers, banners, etc. and make a report of that, possibly jeopardizing future RFTW events in the area.  There will be other Veterans and tourist groups present during the Memorial Day weekend in D.C. so it will be a busy, crowded weekend and parking will be limited.

A reminder that all Camping Spots are full at the Elks Lodge in Ontario. See the notice here

After Action Reports (AAR). You will be hearing more about this in the future, but it is your opportunity as a participant in RFTW to provide feedback about your experience on the Run, both good and bad. All AAR’s are taken seriously and read by the Board and Route leadership. AAR’s in the past have resulted in changes in operating procedures. So your feedback matters.

If you are interested in volunteering to help on the Run, please let me know. I could use backups for all positions in case someone has to cancel or drop out from the Run.

If you are interested in being a part of the RFTW Safety committee, please let me know.

There will be several RFTW board positions coming open this year and the Board is always looking for new people to serve.  All the Board Positions, with their term expiration dates are listed here.

If interested in applying or have further questions, please email the Board secretary at secretary@rftw.us.

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!

With the days are getting longer; spring being here in less than a month and the warmer weather; it’s time to get your bike out, get your service done and get ready for RFTW XXXVI!

And don’t forget your March Madness brackets!

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

Posted on by

Midway Route Coordinator Newsletter – March 2026

RFTW Feature Midway Route

72 Days to KSU!

Can you feel it? We are getting close!

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.

Advice For New Riders

If you haven’t already started, this would be the time to get prepared for the run. Get yourself ready by exercising, walking and most importantly, riding. As the weather permits, try to get some long-distance rides, 100 miles or more at least. Also get used to hydrating by drinking lots of water and electrolytes each day. Make sure your bike is serviced and ready to go. Start going over your packing list and do a trial loadout on your bike. If you are an FNG (Fine New Guy/Gal) you are probably planning to bring too much stuff (we all did our FNG year).

Go over your bike and tighten down all nuts, bolts or connectors of any sort. Blue Loctite will ensure they do not loosen and will keep them from falling off your bike and becoming dangerous, heavy objects bouncing through the formation.

Prepaid Fuel

Yes, Midway is doing prepaid fuel again this year. The cost will be $160.00 and everyone gets to participate.   (That’s just a nice way to say prepaid fuel will be mandatory). There are three (3) ways to pay for prepaid fuel.

1) Use Zelle to send the money to Midway.Route@rftw.us (don’t forget the dot between Midway and Route). Be sure to annotate that it is for “Midway prepaid fuel”.  2) Send a check made out to: Run For The Wall, Inc.  Put “Midway prepaid fuel” in the memo line. Mail to: RFTW Treasurer, 50 Fourth Ave Unit 1445, Dayton, NV 89403  3) Pay cash at check-in either in Ontario or any day you join us on our way to DC. There are no credit card options. CASH ONLY! Please remember, even with prepaid fuel you need to come to Staging each morning with a full tank of gas

We are Still Looking for Volunteers

Midway route is looking for some leadership personnel. I need some dedicated riders to assist me with Promotions and Staging. If you would be willing to assist the Midway riders in any position, 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.

John Philip Baca
John Philip Baca

Special Participant for 2026

John Philip Baca
Medal of Honor recipient for his heroic actions during the Vietnam War.

Heroic Actions

On February 10, 1970, during a night ambush mission, Baca’s platoon was attacked by enemy forces. In the midst of the chaos, a fragmentation grenade was thrown into the group. Without hesitation, Baca covered the grenade with his helmet and then laid his body over it, absorbing the blast and saving the lives of eight fellow soldiers. His extraordinary act of bravery and selflessness directly prevented serious injury or death among his comrades.

John is also the recipient of the Silver Star and Bronze Star Medals for gallantry in combat.

John has decided he wishes to travel for the last time to the Vietnam wall with the Midway route.
Please take this opportunity to shake his hand and welcome him to the Midway family.
He will be working with the Outreach Team by attending visits to Veterans hospitals, Gold Star families, Children homes and many other locations our outreach team travels to extend our mission.

Welcome to the Midway family, John

New Merchandise

There is a Midway specific riding shirt now available in the merchandise store on the RFTW website. This is a pre-run item so it will NOT be available in the merchandise trailers. Please take advantage of celebrating the 100th Anniversary of Route 66, The 12th Anniversary of the Midway route and the 35th Anniversary of the Gulf War.

It is one of a kind and will remind you, through the years of this great 2026 Adventure.

MIDWAY ROUTE Fundraiser Shirt
MIDWAY ROUTE Fundraiser Shirt

Registration

We still have participants that have told me there are going on the run with Midway this year but have not registered. I understand that we are all busy, and as the time gets closer, we will get busier. However, please take 10 minutes of your time and register on line. It would help me and your leadership team works its magic at supporting all our family members on the run. Remember the old NIKE ad “Just Do it”

Americans are generally procrastinators and wait until the last minute to do things we know we need to do. However, in this case, the longer you wait the more impact it has on our great supporters across this great nation. So, PLEASE get it done. With that said, if you have potential conflicts that preclude you from registering now, you can register any time between now and checking in when you arrive in Ontario.

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

Route Itinerary

Your State Coordinators, ARC and I have just completed our final review of this years itineray and satelitte picture reviews of each stop during the route.
We found some very small corrections that were required and will be submitting our route itinerary to the Board shortly. When the routes are approved, they will be added to our Midway route page for your download and review.

Two things to remember about the itineraries. Paper copies used to be handed out at registration/check in as part of your registration package. The After Action Reports (AAR’s) and general comments led efforts towards development of a QR code capability for all riders.

You will be issued a card with a QR code on it that will go in your plastic carrier along with your emergency information form that you will be required to carry around your neck. This QR code opens up to a copy of your route itinerary. This will offer easy access to emergency numbers, chase vehicle information, if required or just a quick review of stops and events happening each day.The QR code on page 4 of the itinerary opens up to safety information you need to remember as a member of your route, so no more losing your itinerary, leaving it laying on a table at one of the stops or having it just fly out of your pocket while riding down the road. It will be easily available for your needs all the time.

Break outs on the Second day in Cookeville

You will have your choice of three break out rides on Day two of our stay in Cookeville, Tennessee. Each will be listed seperately in the published itinerary. When the itineraries are released, please take the time to review each break out and decide which one you wish to participate in. Just between you and me, they are all great!

Your platoon leader will be approaching you, In the future so we can get an idea how how many participants will be riding in each breakout. This will assist our supporters in preparing meals and other presentations/events in your honor. This is just a “Heads up”

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. Our initial contacts with Amvet coordinators are extremely positive and there may be a possibility we get to ride close to the front of R2R, which is exciting. Again, if you have never participated in this event, it is something to remember. More to follow!

After Action Reports (AAR’s)

You will be hearing about AAR’s in great detail as we get closer to KSU. However, I want you to know that AAR’s are a tool developed for you to give us your opinion or professional review of just “How we accomplished our duties” at providing you a safe, efficient, exciting, life changing adventure across our nation.

Even though it is named an After Action report, it is also your voice on what we have done and how we are doing. So you can use this tool as your voice to tell us just what is on your mind and your opinions.

These are read by the Board of Directors and handed to the Route Coordinators for review, comment or direct contact if further conversation/knowledge is required so rest assured these are taken very seriously. None of us is perfect and all opinions are taken very seriously so we collectively work towards making this mission the absolute best we can, year to year. Please use this capability at your discretion.

I will remind each of you to please submit one at the completion of the run to tells us what you think of “How we did” and what we can do better.

Donations

We can still use more donations to support this years run. Please reach out to all individuals who can support this mission to assist veterans, Gold Star families, Blue Star families, POW families, veterans currently residing in care facilities, and schoolchildren who, through no fault of their own, experience food insecurity and borderline malnutrition.
I just had a conversation with someone who just received a $15,000.00 grant from the Stater Brothers grocery chain. All she did was ask!!!!!

So let’s try asking. The worst one can say is no!!

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.

If you can find it within yourself to ask the question, please use either Zelle that most banks have available and submit the donation to: Midway.route@rftw.us.

If you prefer to pay via check, please mail it to:

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

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. Registration will be conducted at the ALP, times and rooms will be forthcoming.

We again will be selecting riders to take their bikes to Arlington National Cemetery, take a photo at the Lincoln Memorial, have a ceremony for the end of RFTW 2026 at the apex of the Vietnam Memorial.

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

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!

We are 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.

“Stop Procrastinating” It is time to re-energize and re-engage

“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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Midway’s Mid-Month Roundup – February 2026

RFTW Leadership Positions

Why?

A simple question that many riders hear when they participate on the run, no matter what route. 

 

“Why ride across the country?”

There are many answers and reasons given; for my buddy or buddies, for a family member, it’s something I’ve gotta do…and they go on. 

 

But the one that is rarely spoken is

‘because it’s my responsibility’. 

Lt. Gen. Jimmy Doolittle summed it up the best quoting “There’s nothing stronger than the heart of a volunteer”, describing and honoring the courage, dedication, and selflessness of individuals who serve without obligation, often highlighting how volunteers may not have time, but they have the heart.

Every position within the Run for the Wall organization is performed by a volunteer, someone who willingly chose to inquire and perform or was asked and accepted the request. Each position, every task, all having different roles and responsibilities with a single common goal; to safely deliver all the participants, riders, drivers, and passengers alike, to their intended destination.

Although many participants are veterans from many different eras and backgrounds, and yet many more are patriots that have not served in the military but support the overarching mission. It would be easy for veterans to fall back into their past routines of leadership through mission necessity and success; however, a people-first approach is used focusing on empowering, supporting, and developing team members rather than exercising top-down control. 

During any given year more than a thousand riders attend the run and ride among the 4 different routes, but not every rider has the same experience or skills as the rider next to them. Being able to listen to one another and understand oneself and others situational context allows everyone of such diversity to come together as a group and organization. Many participants run to help heal wounds from the past while each volunteer will help to foster wholeness and personal growth within them and among all team members. These are just some of the key principles of being a Servant Leader.

From Staging to the Road Guards who manage. 

Platoon Leaders to the Ambassadors who keep.

Leadership Support to the Fuel Teams who perform.

Medical Teams to the Chaplains who provide.

Leadership unites and brings them all together.

Whether you are trying to close a chapter in your life or starting a new one, you will always have a family looking out for you.

Becoming a leader within the organization or route is completely voluntary, and very rewarding. Most positions simply need you to ask to be a part of. There you will be given the necessary tools, knowledge, and coaching to carry out the tasks. Other positions are more skills oriented where you are observed and invited into the position based upon your skill set and abilities. Any and all of them are still voluntary in nature and rewarding by the heart. All of them different with the same ending goal, to provide safe passage of all participants to their intended destination.

If you are thinking of doing more than participating in your platoon and have run your route in full, please consider volunteering as you won’t regret your decision. All you need to do is navigate to your Route Hub under the Routes tab on RFTW.us and fill out the questionnaire within Volunteer Sign-Up. 

It may just give you another reason to answer the question ‘Why?’ when someone asks again.

-FNGs! (Fun New Guys/Gals)

83 Days until KSU (kick stands up).  That’s 2 months and 24 days…

Have you been saddle training? What has been your longest ride? Are you riding consistently yet to get your body use to riding long distances? (i.e. saddle training)

We’ve discussed bike maintenance and riding gear preparations. How about rain gear?

Do you have specific rain gear for riding, a supermarket poncho, or maybe just an oversized trash bag with arm and neck holes?

Whatever the gear may be, have you worn it while riding, rain or shine? The importance of this is not only to be prepared for inclement weather that may or may not be encountered, but testing the durability of your gear is essential. Will it hold up to the wind whipping by while on the road? Will it shred and become a hazard to the riders behind you? Or will it simply be too annoying to wear or cumbersome to put on and discourage you from even using it?

Believe it or not rain gear can be used in several different manners while riding across country. Not only can it be used to shed water from you in a rainstorm, but it can also be used as a barrier in higher elevations, cooler temperatures, or even heavy fog. Having an effective barrier to prevent water, wind, and even cooler temps from your skin will help you stay dry, warm, and a whole lot more comfortable.

You also need to pay attention to your Road Guards and leadership at stops, morning meetings, or just about anywhere on the trip. If you see them putting on their rain gear, they know something is coming. You may want to follow suit and put on yours as well.

Stay safe, stay warm, stay informed.

-Midway Leadership Messages

We are looking for a few good riders who are willing to step and support our mission in a leadership position. These are critical positions and require someone who truly supports the mission of the Midway route. 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 is available on the Midway web page.

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

$120.00 started Feb 1, 2026

$100.00 Day riders for up to three days

Welcome to the family!!

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.

PRE-PAID FUEL

The Route Coordinator (Wind Dog) has 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, he has increased the cost by $10.00 this year. If he finds that we are financially OK, he 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!

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.

Less than 3 months left….

Ben ‘Stitch’ Noyce

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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