Category: Midway Route SitReps

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January 2025 Central Route Newsletter

Happy New Year to RFTW and Central Route Riders!  We are 4-months and 1-week until kickstands up, and the commencement of RFTW 2025 – The 35th Annual Run!

(This newsletter is best read at this link.)

The hotel list officially will be released on Jan 10. Remember, if some place is full, there are always neighboring hotels and options that may not be on the list. Let Google be your friend.

I’d like to start the New Year – 2025 with a bit of reflection on 2024.  Personally, for me it was a challenging year, at least in my professional life. I still work full-time, unlike all of you “retired” guys and gals out there.  I was laid-off, but I look at it this way… I would not be where I am now if it had not been for that little bit of discomfort. After the layoff happened, I reached out to the company I used to sell against, one thing led to another, and they snapped me up immediately.  And I am much happier and better for it.

I’ve been doing RFTW every year since 2009. I’ve seen it all; sun, heat, rain, snow, and cold, and even hail.  It does not matter which route you do, we’ve all had our share of mother nature’s wrath.  Southern Route years ago had a Run now known as, “To Hail and Back”, and several years later a thunderstorm followed them almost literally from coast-to-coast. They were drenched when they got to DC.  On Central Route years ago (2011) we encountered a little bit of snow in ARIZONA of all places! A year later we rode thru a storm on the way to Junction City, KS, and we were drenched when we got there.  I looked like I jumped into a swimming pool with my clothes on.  My point in telling you these stories, is that you as a rider need to be prepared.  As leadership, we have the safety of the Pack always on our minds. Most years it’s quite normal.  In my opinion, I think overall we have some of the most temperate weather, like Goldilocks… Not too hot , and not too cold.  I’ve done RFTW many, many times with pleasant weather coast-to-coast, where it didn’t even rain.  2024 was a different story. I was the Asst Route Coordinator in 2024, and our RC then, Nick told me to take the pack from our lunch stop in Oakley, KS to our fuel stop in Bunker Hill, KS. Before we left, myself and several others checked weather radar, and there was no weather ahead on the route.  30-minutes into our leg a storm blew up around us out of nowhere, and it started to hail. We eventually, made it to our stop, and all riders were accounted for. We had to wait for the storm to pass, and we made it into Junction City later in the evening.  People in the local area called this a once in a 75-year event.  So, the good news is we should be clear for 2025!!

I reflect on this because a local, someone in Kansas saw us and posted about us, and we found out about it the next day. This guy was part of a storm watch group.  Anyway, he posted, from his vehicle on I-70,  “West of Hays, KS. 3-inch hail and tornado warning. POW/MIA bikers are built different.”

That really stuck with me because YOU the people that do RFTW, that come back year-after-year, you FNGs that do this for the first time, YOU ALL ARE DIFFERENT.   We are on a Mission, and We Ride for Those Who Can’t. You/We ride with honor, pride, and integrity, never forgetting those that came before us, and those that paid the ultimate sacrifice for the freedoms we all enjoy..  And that gentleman from Kansas was right — Run for the Wall Riders ARE BUILT DIFFERENT.  I tell you this because that will also be our motto for the 2025 Central Route 35th Annual Run.

Click this link if you can’t see the embedded post below from that gentleman in Kansas:
https://www.facebook.com/RunForTheWall/posts/763425662574782

Route planning continues to be underway.  As early as a couple of days ago, we were going to have a small detour around Albuquerque, NM, from Route 66 Casino gas stop, but our State Coordinator, Patti Finley continued to work with NM DOT, and they have assured us the route thru Albuquerque will now be the same as always. The issue was major construction at the interchange of I-40 and I-25.  For you FNGs, the entire State of New Mexico gives us a border-to-border escort brigade of police and state troopers that shutdown I-40 and I-25 for us.  I share this story with you, so you get a glimpse of what our hardworking State Coordinators do all-year long.  They assist with the route plan, work with hotels for special rates, gas stops, meal coordination with volunteer organizations,  and are the go-to persons in their respective states.   When you see them, please give them a big thank you!

Central Route is in need of a Route Photographer and a Videographer.  These can be one or two positions.  If you have an eye for photography, or are a photography hobbyist/enthusiast, please get in touch with me directly at: kirk.olson@rftw.us. (If no one steps up we may have to resort to taking up a collection fund and/or start a Go Fund Me page to bribe Jerry Lanier from Southern Route, or Jim McCrain from Midway Route to be the photographer on Central Route for 2025.????  In all seriousness, I hope to find as dedicated individuals as those guys, and our past and now retired photographers, Dan Eckstein and Alan Steiner.)  Again, if you have the photo and/or video bug, please reach out to me.

Additionally, I am also seeking a TRIKE Platoon LEADER for Platoon 9.  Same goes here, email me directly, kirk.olson@rftw.us.

For you new riders and FNGs, in the next coming month or two, you will be contacted by our Platoon Coordinator and Registration team.  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.

Register for the 2025 Run now

Price of Registration increases FEBRUARY 1!!  Get in on the lowest registration fee of $60 now! $60 registration fee is good thru Jan 31. Price is slightly lower under the Day Rider Program.  Go to the registration page now.  Everyone is highly encouraged to REGISTER for RFTW in 2025 now.  This helps us make an accurate plan for May.  If you are in Leadership you need to be getting registered now, if not already.  Your registration is your indication to us that you are committing to your volunteer position.  FNGs please also register as early as you can.  We know plans can change.

Register for RFTW 2025

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 it.

RFTW Forum

Volunteer forms have been coming in for 2025. I send them to the appropriate crew and team leaders when I get them.  That being said, if you are interested in a volunteer position on Central Route, it’s also OK to reach out to that particular team or crew lead, in addition to sending in a form. Platoon Leaders pick their own APL’s and Tail Gunners (with RC approval). Road Guards, Staging, Fuel, Ambassadors, Outreach, Medical, and Chaplain volunteers are brought on by those team leads, and again approved by the RC. Don’t be discouraged if a team is full, there is a lot of time between now and May. Things always change. Central Route crews & teams are now just starting to be put together for 2025.

See you next month. Drop me an email anytime.

Honor and Remember Them All.
Remember, RFTW Riders are Built Different.

Kirk “Pretty Boy” Olson
kirk.olson@rftw.us
RFTW Central Route Coordinator – 2025
Asst. Route Coordinator – 2024
Road Guard Captain – 2023
Asst. Road Guard Captain – 2019
BoD of Directors – 2016-2019
Road Guard 2010-2018
FNG 2009

If you have not seen from previous newsletters by me or the other Route Coordinators from Southern, Midway, and Sandbox, RFTW is moving to GMRS for our on-road communications. This is not as big of a transition for us on Central Route this year in 2025, since we piloted the GMRS radios in 2024, and they worked very well.  My advice to you all is to get the radio now, and learn how to use, pair, and connect them to your helmet speakers or ear drums.  Also, help our friends on Southern, Midway, and Sandbox get theirs set-up and paired. Personally, I use a Sena 50S paired to the radio, and I paired the radio as PHONE 2, to the radio. See Sena directions, on how to do this.

**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.

Donate to the RFTW and the Central Route

If you find it within your heart to support Run for the Wall and RFTW Central Route, please consider making a donation.  This will help make  RFTW 2025 and the 35th Annual Run a complete success. Donate Online – Here

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

Or mail a check to:
Run for the Wall Inc.
Central 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.

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Midway Route Coordinator Newsletter – January 2025

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

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

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

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

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

Run for the Wall

50 Fourth Ave Unit 1445

Dayton, NV 89403

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

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

Breakout 1 – Sunbright Memorial in Sunbright, TN

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

Breakout 3 – Tennessee State Veterans Home in Murfreesboro, TN

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

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

“To promote healing among ALL veterans and their families and friends, to call for an accounting of all Prisoners of War and those Missing in Action (POW/MIA), to honor the memory of those Killed in Action (KIA) from all wars, and to support our military personnel all over the world.”  This is why we ride.  Together let’s make 2025 a year to remember and give our Vietnam Veterans the WELCOME HOME they so deserved 50 years ago.

Say their names.  Tell their stories.  Never forget.

Eric “Pitch” Fort

Route Coordinator – Midway 2025

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Central Route – December 2024 Newsletter

I hope this message finds everyone well as we start to prepare for the upcoming Holiday and Christmas Season. In regards specifically to the Run and Central Route, I can report that planning is going  as smoothly as can be at this stage with us being 5-months out from kickstands up in May 2025.  All of  our State Coordinators have finalized our overnights with our partner hotels from Arizona to West 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.

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

Remember, this is going to be a very special Run in 2025 because it is the 35th Annual Run of RFTW and it is the 50th Anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War.  Again, as a reminder due to these special anniversaries, we are making an extra effort to salute and honor our Vietnam Veterans this year, as they are the ones that paved the way for RFTW, its mission, and to what it has become, and why it means so much to all of us today.

I am currently in need of a volunteer to be the back-up Photographer.  And I am also seeking a Videographer. If you’re a photographer or videographer hobbyist, please get in touch with me at: kirk.olson@rftw.us

I wish you and your families the very best this Christmas and Holiday Season, and seeing you all in May 2025!

Remember those that serve.  I’ll leave you with a special Christmas Story from WWI.

(The videos I’ve embedded, may only show properly if you go to this newsletter at the rftw website. Click on “Read on blog” in the upper right from the email.)

Christmas Truce of 1914

Kirk Olson
Route Coordinator 2025 – Central Route
kirk.olson@rftw.us | (303) 588-6125

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Midway Route Coordinator Newsletter – December 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

“To promote healing among ALL veterans and their families and friends, to call for an accounting of all Prisoners of War and those Missing in Action (POW/MIA), to honor the memory of those Killed in Action (KIA) from all wars, and to support our military personnel all over the world.”  This is why we ride.  Together let’s make 2025 a year to remember and give our Vietnam Veterans the WELCOME HOME they so deserved 50 years ago.

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

Until they all come home…

Eric “Pitch” Fort

Route Coordinator – Midway 2025

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Midway Route Coordinator Newsletter – November 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Run for the Wall Inc.

50 Fourth Ave Unit 1445

Dayton, NV 89403

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

“To promote healing among ALL veterans and their families and friends, to call for an accounting of all Prisoners of War and those Missing in Action (POW/MIA), to honor the memory of those Killed in Action (KIA) from all wars, and to support our military personnel all over the world.”  This is why we ride.  Together let’s make 2025 a year to remember and give our Vietnam Veterans the WELCOME HOME they so deserved 50 years ago.

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

Until they all come home…

Eric “Pitch” Fort

Route Coordinator – Midway 2025

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October 2024 Central Route Newsletter

Happy almost Halloween, Run for the Wall Riders and Greetings from the Central Route!

Route planning continues to be underway.  A few weeks ago we had our first Leadership meeting with all of the Team leads, and also held a meeting with all of our State Coordinators.  In regards to the route, it will look much like last year.  At this time, the only change from 2024 to 2025 will be our overnight on Day 8, Wednesday, May 21, 2025, and we will be overnighting and pulling into Hurricane, WV instead of Nitro, WV.

Run for the Wall stickerDue to it being the 35th Annual Run in May 2025, and the 50th Anniversary of the official end of the Vietnam War, we will be having a special “Vietnam Veterans” platoon.  This platoon will be made up of Vietnam Veterans ONLY. At registration and check-in make sure that you tell our registration team to put you in this special platoon, if you are a Vietnam veteran, and would like to ride in this platoon.  If the US Department of Defense bestowed the Vietnam campaign ribbon to you, you are welcome to request and ride in this platoon.

Register for the 2025 Run now

Everyone is highly encouraged to REGISTER for RFTW in 2025 now.  This helps us make an accurate plan for May.  If you are in Leadership you need to be getting registered now, if not already.  Your registration is your indication to us that you are committing to your volunteer position.  FNGs please also register as early as you can.  We know plans can change.

Register for RFTW 2025

There have been some questions on how to program the GMRS radios.  As promised, How-to Videos have been made, and they are now posted in the RFTW Forum, and on YouTube.

How to Set-up and Program BTECH GMRS Pro Bluetooth Radio with iPhone or Android - Part 1

Program CTCSS Codes on BTECH GMRS Pro Bluetooth Radio without a phone or app. Part 2

How to pair BTECH GMRS Pro Bluetooth Radio to Sena or Cardo for motorcycling. Part 3

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 it.

RFTW Forum

Volunteer forms have been coming in for 2025. I send them to the appropriate crew and team leaders when I get them.  That being said, if you are interested in a volunteer position on Central Route, it’s also OK to reach out to that particular team or crew lead, in addition to sending in a form. Platoon Leaders pick their own APL’s and Tail Gunners (with RC approval). Road Guards, Staging, Fuel, Ambassadors, Outreach, Medical, and Chaplain volunteers are brought on by those team leads, and again approved by the RC. Don’t be discouraged if a team is full, there is a lot of time between now and May. Things always change. Central Route crews & teams are now just starting to be put together for 2025.

I can tell you as of now, I have openings for a Videographer.  Staging is also going to need a few more bodies, as of now, as well.

See you next month. And drop me an email anytime.

Honor and Remember Them All,

Kirk “Pretty Boy” Olson
kirk.olson@rftw.us
RFTW Central Route Coordinator – 2025
Asst. Route Coordinator – 2024
Road Guard Captain – 2023
Asst. Road Guard Captain – 2019
BoD of Directors – 2016-2019
Road Guard 2010-2018
FNG 2009

If you have not seen from previous newsletters by me or the other Route Coordinators from Southern, Midway, and Sandbox, RFTW is moving to GMRS for our on-road communications. This is not as big of a transition for us on Central Route this year in 2025, since we piloted the GMRS radios in 2024, and they worked very well.  My advice to you all is to get the radio now, and learn how to use, pair, and connect them to your helmet speakers or ear drums.  Also, help our friends on Southern, Midway, and Sandbox get theirs set-up and paired. Personally, I use a Sena 50S paired to the radio, and I paired the radio as PHONE 2, to the radio. See Sena directions, on how to do this.

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

Additional GMRS Info

Donate to the RFTW and the Central Route

If you find it within your heart to support Run for the Wall and RFTW Central Route, please consider making a donation.  This will help make  RFTW 2025 and the 35th Annual Run a complete success. Donate Online – Here

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

Or mail a check to:
Run for the Wall Inc.
Central 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.

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Midway Route Coordinator Newsletter – October 2024

Photo credit to Jim “Hoofer” McCrain

Photo credit to Jim “Hoofer” McCrain

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

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

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

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

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

“To promote healing among ALL veterans and their families and friends, to call for an accounting of all Prisoners of War and those Missing in Action (POW/MIA), to honor the memory of those Killed in Action (KIA) from all wars, and to support our military personnel all over the world.”  This is why we ride.  Together let’s make 2025 a year to remember and give our Vietnam Veterans the WELCOME HOME they so deserved 50 years ago.

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

Until they all come home…

Eric “Pitch” Fort

Route Coordinator – Midway 2025

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September 2024 – Central Route Newsletter

The end of August and early September is typically quite busy for RFTW riders.  As I mentioned in my last newsletter, we were getting ready to do our Annual Reunion and Brick Laying at the Vietnam Memorial in Angel Fire, NM.  This event happened over Labor Day Weekend a couple of weeks ago, and it was a success again. We laid a little over 500 memorial bricks on the grounds around those walkways. RFTW adopted this tradition over this weekend in 2008, and we have been doing it ever since.

For our new people and FNGs, we will also be stopping in Eagle Nest / Angel Fire, NM in May 2025, as this is also one of our official overnight stops.  At this stop when we arrive, we will lay one memorial brick at the memorial  as part of our arrival ceremony.  Memorial bricks can be purchased for any veteran living or deceased and from any era.

There are several individuals that deserve extra special recognition in helping make this a success.

Thank you to: Patti Finley, Kenny Keelin, Kathryn Ewing, Kevin Riley, Blanca Alas-Riley, Harry Steelman, Mike McDole, Coreen Wood, John Grimes,  Mike Sekiya, Eric Ammann, and Sonia Amman. You all went above and beyond. Thank you.

I noticed after I got home that Sonia Ammann did a very nice write-up on her personal Facebook page, and took some wonderful pictures. You can see that below.

Sonia, and her husband, Eric, are our Central Route Ambassador leads.  They lead a team of seasoned RFTW  riders that meet and greet our supporters that line overpasses and wave to us, as well as do community outreach to say THANK YOU to those that support us along our Mission across the US from Ontario, CA to Washington, DC, and the Vietnam Memorial.

Registration for our 35th Annual run is now open.  We open registration every September 11th in remembrance of that fateful day.  Please register early!  It helps us tremendously to plan for logistics, meals, number of platoons, etc.

I do have an open need for a special position that we did not have last year.  I am looking for a VIDEOGRAPHER.  If you have experience in making quality videos and cinematography,  please shoot me an email or call me.  My contact info is on the Central Route Contact page.

In the next 30-days I will be holding a leadership zoom meeting with our state coordinators, and another for our Central Route leadership platoon, team and crew leads. Be on the look our for those meeting invites. Before that time, please start thinking about what you are going to need in order to make RFTW 2025 a success.

As you may have seen or heard, Ted Kapner and Taisha Harmon have started the new RFTW podcast, which you can view on Youtube, or listen to on Spotify and Apple Podcasts among other platforms.  Take a listen… its pretty great!

RFTW Podcast

That’s about all I have for now. See you next month.

Honor and Remember Them All,

Kirk “Pretty Boy” Olson
RFTW Central Route Coordinator – 2025
Asst. Route Coordinator – 2024
Road Guard Captain – 2023
Asst. Road Guard Captain – 2019
BoD of Directors – 2016-2019
Road Guard 2010-2018
FNG 2009

If you have not seen from previous newsletters by me or the other Route Coordinators from Southern, Midway, and Sandbox, RFTW is moving to GMRS for our on-road communications. This is not as big of a transition for us on Central Route this year in 2025, since we piloted the GMRS radios in 2024, and they worked very well.  My advice to you all is to get the radio now, and learn how to use, pair, and connect them to your helmet speakers or ear drums.  Also, help our friends on Southern, Midway, and Sandbox get theirs set-up and paired. Personally, I use a Sena 50S paired to the radio, and I paired the radio as PHONE 2, to the radio. See Sena directions, on how to do this.

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

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Midway Route Coordinator Newsletter – September 2024

Happy September everyone.  I hope this month’s message finds you safe, well and looking forward to what I am sure we all are dreaming of…cooler Fall weather!

Although this year seems to be moving at an extremely fast pace, the planning and preparation for Midway’s 2025 Run for the Wall has been well underway for several months now.  The Leadership Team and State Coordinators continue to work hand in hand on all the stops, hotels, breakouts, etc. to ensure the best possible experience we can provide on the route.  We have read every AAR that was submitted and are making adjustments where we can based upon your feedback and input.  If you have suggestions or something you feel can benefit the Run, please visit rftw.us and submit an AAR.  It is never too late!

Thank you to everyone who has volunteered so far!  Without your dedication and hard work, we could not accomplish our mission.  That being said, there are still open positions to fill.  And much like Uncle Sam, WE NEED YOU!  If you have the desire to volunteer and give back to Midway you can visit the Volunteer Sign-Up page to see the positions and their requirements as well as complete the Volunteer Applications

In case you have not seen the most recent President’s Message from John Staub, this year we will be completing the ride in Springfield, VA.  This is a very positive move as it will give us more updated hotel options as well as easy access on and off the interstate for travel in and around the DC area.  The American Legion post will also be opening their doors to us in much the same way as the Elks have provided for us Ontario.  More to come on these changes as we receive the information.

Registration will open this Wednesday on 9/11 at 08:46 EST.  Although there will be a nominal increase in registration fees this year, it is still a great deal for an 11-day event!  Early Bird Registration is $60 per person for those that registration between 11 September 2024 and 31 January 2025.  After that, Regular Registration is from 01 February 2025 through 30 April 2025 at a cost of $75 per person.  After that the Last Minute Moe will be $90 per person.  Midway has chosen to not increase the Prepaid Fuel for this year.  Coast to Coast will be $150 and $25 per day for Day Riders or those that choose not to participate in the Prepaid option.  I would highly encourage you to consider Prepaid.  Not only is it very cost-effective in the big picture, but it also helps provide a safer and more efficient stop at the pumps!

I would like you all to begin thinking about the Breakouts 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.  More to come soon!

The RFTW Forums are now back and live.  There are quite a few good topics and discussions that have already begun…from GMRS radios to advice for FNG’s to meet ups and get togethers.  Thanks to Ted Kapner for all his efforts behind the scenes to get this up and running again!  Speaking of Ted, he along with Hitch just started a Run for the Wall podcast.  They did a nice job introducing RFTW to those that may not know who we are and what we are about.  I’m excited to see what they bring to the official first episode in the coming weeks.  For more information go to Podcast on the RFTW website.

“To promote healing among ALL veterans and their families and friends, to call for an accounting of all Prisoners of War and those Missing in Action (POW/MIA), to honor the memory of those Killed in Action (KIA) from all wars, and to support our military personnel all over the world.”  This is why we ride.  Together let’s make 2025 a year to remember and give our Vietnam Veterans the WELCOME HOME they so deserved 50 years ago.

Say their names.  Tell their stories.  Never forget.

Eric “Pitch” Fort

Route Coordinator – Midway 2025

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Central Route August 2024 Newsletter

Happy August Run for the Wall Riders and Greetings from the Central Route!
Immediate things that are happening this month that you need to be aware of are the Angel Fire / Eagle Nest, New Mexico Reunion and Brick laying.
This reunion will take place Friday, August 30 – Sunday, Sept 1, 2024.

We could use strong backs on Thursday, Aug 29 at 1PM at the Memorial to lay out the base coat of sand for the bricks and some more help Friday to sort the bricks in order and load them on a trailer.

If you have not done so, time is running short to register, and please do so here.  It is imperative you do this in a timely manner, so the people preparing our food have an accurate count.

Go here to register for the reunion: https://forms.gle/txe74T5fRRAzCC9EA
** We would like all people registered no later than August 19, 2024.

Register for Angel Fire Reunion

Here is a tentative schedule for the reunion:

Reunion: Friday, August 30th Sunday, September 1st with Taco Bar on Friday night, and DINNER on Saturday, August 31st, 2024
Dinner Address: 74 N Tomboy Dr, Eagle Nest, NM

Thursday and Friday 29 August & 30 August
Preparation of grounds and Bricks. Location-Memorial
1:00 PM Thursday-Need some volunteers to shovel and rake the base layer of sand.
9:00 AM Friday– General Area Preparations and Sorting of Bricks

Friday Evening, 30 August
5:30 PM Memorial Service for Don “Bullet” Pierce and Frank “Friendless” Silva at outdoor Pavilion behind Senior Center by Arnie Swift & Kevin Riley
6:00 PM Reception & Dinner at Laguna Vista Saloon

Saturday, 31 August
All times are approximate and subject to change. 

7:00 AM Pre-Program Activity & Set Up (Breakfast Sandwiches/Coffee Provided)
9:00 AM Opening Ceremony. Followed by Brick laying of Westphal Foundation Bricks.
9:30 AM Medal of Honor Brick Laying.
3:00 PM (Approx.) End of Workday – After last brick is laid the workday will conclude. Volunteers to help clean up and put away equipment will be needed and appreciated.

5:45 PM Meet at outdoor Pavilion behind Senior Center for a brief Ceremony (Pledge of Allegiance, Prayer, Announcements) (50 N Tom Boy Dr, Eagle Nest, NM 87718).

6:00 PM Dinner and Rider’s Forum (Senior Center- 50 N Tom Boy Drive) (Dinner cost is $35.00 per pre-registered person-Includes Reunion Patch). Any registrations received after August 18th will  be $45 per person (if the caterer can accommodate the addition).

Sunday, 1 September
8:00 AM Church Services at Angel Fire Memorial Chapel (by Kevin Riley)

There is another reunion opportunity on Sept 27-29, 2024 in Kerrville, TX.  This reunion is for all RFTW and is hosted by our Southern Route brothers and sisters.

Kerrville, TX Reunion

If you have not seen from previous newsletters by me or the other Route Coordinators from Southern, Midway, and Sandbox, RFTW is moving to GMRS for our on-road communications. This is not as big of a transition for us on Central Route this year in 2025, since we piloted the GMRS radios in 2024, and they worked very well.  My advice to you all is to get the radio now, and learn how to use, pair, and connect them to your helmet speakers or ear drums.  Also, help our friends on Southern, Midway, and Sandbox get theirs set-up and paired. Personally, I use a Sena 50S paired to the radio, and I paired the radio as PHONE 2, to the radio. See Sena directions, on how to do this.

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

Additional GMRS Info

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 it.

RFTW Forum

Volunteer forms have been coming in for 2025. I send them to the appropriate crew and team leaders when I get them.  That being said, if you are interested in a volunteer position on Central Route, it’s also OK to reach out to that particular team or crew lead, in addition to sending in a form. Platoon Leaders pick their own APL’s and Tail Gunners (with RC approval). Road Guards, Staging, Fuel, Ambassadors, Outreach, Medical, and Chaplain volunteers are brought on by those team leads, and again approved by the RC. Don’t be discouraged if a team is full, there is a lot of time between now and May. Things always change. Central Route crews & teams are now just starting to be put together for 2025.

I can tell you as of now, I have openings for a Raffle Rouser Assistant, and a Videographer.  Staging is also going to need a few more bodies, as of now, as well.

That’s about it for now.  See you in Angel Fire and Eagle Nest, New Mexico in a couple of weeks.

Honor and Remember Them All,

Kirk “Pretty Boy” Olson
RFTW Central Route Coordinator – 2025
Asst. Route Coordinator – 2024
Road Guard Captain – 2023
Asst. Road Guard Captain – 2019
BoD of Directors – 2016-2019
Road Guard 2010-2018
FNG 2009