Category: President Messages

And just like that, it is already November.

As we experience the back-and-forth of temperatures common during the fall/winter transition, I am taking advantage of those lovely days to get out and work on my riding skills. I continue to exercise not only to prepare for May but also because it positively impacts my daily life. What are you doing to prepare for Run 2025?

As we move into the holiday season, I ask that we take a moment and give thanks for the blessings we receive and continue to pray for those whose lives have drastically changed over the last year.

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.

RFTW Philosophy

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. and the Middle East Conflicts Wall Memorial in Marseilles, Illinois in the hope they can return home to a new beginning.

In 2015, Ken “Wish” Hargrove included the following in a newsletter update. It speaks volumes and is as appropriate today as it was then:

“We Ride for Those Who Can’t”— Six simple words with a very deep and wide meaning. You first-timers, or “FNG’s” as you are known, should be prepared to laugh, to cry, to have your breath taken away and to be humbled.

“We Ride for Those Who Can’t”— We ride for the veteran or family member who is unable to make the ride themself, When doing so we are responsible for carrying their need for healing cross-country to The Wall or from Wall to Wall.

“We Ride for Those Who Can’t”— We ride for our fellow riders who are in need of healing and in need of support as they are welcomed home, many for the first time ever.

“We Ride for Those Who Can’t”— We ride to bring awareness of the POW/MIA issues and the thousands of our brethren who have yet to be brought back home and to shine a light on the government’s lack of attention to this solemn commitment to leave no one behind.

I hope you have read in the RFTW forums and various RC newsletters that all routes are switching to GMRS for route communications. Kirk Olson, the CR RC, posted helpful videos on the forums to aid those needing assistance making the switch. I ride a 2015 Honda Goldwing and recently installed a Sena Freewire to connect with my Sena 50s, my phone, my GMRS, and the media system on the Wing.  It took a bit of patience along with some trial and error, but making that switch now and being able to test it all helps ensure I will be ready for Run 2025. Be prepared for some anomalies; for example, if I am talking on my phone, I cannot hear or transmit on the GMRS.  But then again, I don’t answer my phone while on the Run, so it is no big deal. I don’t typically carry my GMRS except while on the Run, so that nuance really has no impact.  However, installing and setting up the system now gives me plenty of time to work through the changes, so using it will become second nature.  BTW, there are links in the forums for discounts on the Baofeng GMRS radio and wireless Push-to-Talk switch.  This is not an RFTW endorsement for a particular manufacturer but a helpful link when searching for GMRS devices we tested and know work. Your mileage may vary.

Speaking of the forums, there are a few threads on regional or area informal meetings for RFTW-minded folks. This is a great way to maintain those friendships we establish as we continue to perform our Mission and yet another way to demonstrate our dedication to our veteran community publicly. I try to attend the monthly meetings in the Northeast (well, DC, VA, MD, and central PA) and encourage you to do the same.

Boots and Hitch continue to produce high-quality podcasts to reach out to folks and help explain the history and intricacies of RFTW. If you haven’t yet tuned in, I invite you to do so. The latest session, which focused on the first-ever father-son RCs, can be viewed here.

I want to mention again that Midway RC Eric Fort has set up a fundraising event called A Step to Remember. You can support Eric’s efforts through this Facebook event. I invite you to look at this event and consider contributing to this superhuman effort. This is truly personal for Eric, and his contribution to RFTW in remembrance makes this very special. Just a reminder, any fundraising events must be approved by the RC.  The RCs are responsible for reviewing and approving official RFTW fundraisers.  You need RC approval before launching the event if you use any RFTW intellectual property (logo, name, motto, etc.).

The practice session in Lot D last year was such a success that Batman and Flat Tire (Lance and Bernadette) are working on plans to do it again last year.  The feedback we received through your AARs was very positive.  More to follow as we get closer to May.

Speaking of Run 2025, you can now register here.  Our new 2025 merchandise is in the store, so while you are registering, consider purchasing some new swag.  Remember, if you are not going on the Run and want to register to show support for the Run, we ask that you go to our donation page and donate the amount of your registration fee instead of registering.  This helps keep our registration records clean so that our dedicated volunteers can better plan for the needs of our riders.

Much like the switch to the GMRS radio system, podcasts, electronic registration, and many other things, RFTW, like our society, must be postured to respond and react to societal changes.  There are significant differences between veterans across the various wars, cultures, and conflicts, and the Board of Directors is continuously working towards securing the future of the Run. We continue to read and analyze your AARs, emails, registration statistics, etc., to help ensure we focus on meeting all our riders’ needs.  Remaining stagnant is not an option; we will continue to work towards keeping the Run alive.

I leave you with this: It is not the worst thing to die in war; it is not the worst thing to be missing in war. The worst thing is to be forgotten in War.

No one is left behind is more than a standard we all live up to. It is a way of life. It is part of our Mission. If you or someone you know finds themselves struggling with mental health, please know you can contact the VA Veteran’s Crisis Line by dialing 988, then pressing 1, or texting 838255 to speak or chat with a qualified responder.

Let us dedicate ourselves and our efforts and remember to keep our focus on the Mission. It is why we ride!

Say Their Names – Tell Their Stories – Never Forget.

Back to Basics. Back to the RFTW Mission.

Is it May yet?

John “Turkey” Staub
President, RFTW, Inc.
2011- CR FNG
2012 – CR Participant
2013 – CR Staging Team
2014 – 2015 – CR Staging Team Ass’t. Lead
2016-2017 – CR Staging Team Lead
2022 – CR Platoon Coordinator
2023-2024 – CR/SB Road Guard

While the doldrums that were early September turned into rain and drizzle for south central PA, south of us, Hurricane Helene left death, destruction, and devastation behind. With nearly 300 dead and 600 still missing and towns completely blocked off due to roads being washed out, some of the challenges faced by responders, friends, and family are mind-boggling. As I write this, Hurricane Milton, now a Category 5, is forming in the Gulf and heading right toward Tampa, FL.  Many of you have lived through hurricanes, tornados, and similar events and understand how lives can be instantly shattered. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all suffering through this latest disaster.

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.

RFTW Philosophy

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. and the Middle East Conflicts Wall Memorial in Marseilles, Illinois in the hope they can return home to a new beginning.

In 2015, Ken “Wish” Hargrove included the following in a newsletter update. It speaks volumes, and is as appropriate today as it was then:

“We Ride for Those Who Can’t”— Six simple words with a very deep and wide meaning. You first-timers, or “FNG’s” as you are known, should be prepared to laugh, to cry, to have your breath taken away and to be humbled.

“We Ride for Those Who Can’t”— We ride for the veteran or family member who is unable to make the ride themself, When doing so we are responsible for carrying their need for healing cross-country to The Wall or from Wall to Wall.

“We Ride for Those Who Can’t”— We ride for our fellow riders who are in need of healing and in need of support as they are welcomed home, many for the first time ever.

“We Ride for Those Who Can’t”— We ride to bring awareness of the POW/MIA issues and the thousands of our brethren who have yet to be brought back home and to shine a light on the government’s lack of attention to this solemn commitment to leave no one behind.

“We Ride for Those Who Can’t”— We ride out of respect and support for our current serving military who are in harm’s way and who are at the beck and call of our nation’s needs.

Remember – There remain 1575 still missing which means more than 1575 families who are still looking for answers…Say Their Names – Tell Their Stories – Never Forget

Reports on both the Angel Fire and Kerrville reunions are positive.  These unofficial gatherings unite like-minded people to spend quality time doing things that add meaning to their lives.  It is a good thing for us to get together and reminisce, to bring new folks into the fold, to have open Forums to improve the communications processes, and to get the word out.  I hope these unofficial events continue for years to come.  Many thanks go out to the volunteers who work so hard to make these events happen!!

In my last message, I discussed the challenges the Board faces regarding price increases and obtaining those critical services needed to execute our Mission successfully.  Our Directors, RCs, and hundreds of volunteers continue assembling the elements necessary for each Route.  With some of the more recent challenges due to Hurricane Helene and perhaps even more as the next hurricane approaches the Florida coast, I ask that we all exercise patience as we continue our planning processes.  We already know Midway is working on deviations for their route, so please stand by as your leadership team continues to work on these issues.  I encourage you to look for your RCs newsletter each month so that you can stay up to date on the latest developments.

With the advent of electronic registration, we can more closely compare run demographics across multiple years, age groups, etc.  This information review reveals some interesting trends, especially in the age of our riders.  When looked at alongside our AARs, the BoD is taking a very close look at ways to improve the processes of our Mission and continue working towards our Back-to-Basics mandate.  As our society changes, we must be prepared to adjust.  We can ill afford to become irrelevant.

Speaking of registration, you can now register for Run 2025.  Our new 2025 merchandise is now in the store, so while you are registering, consider purchasing some new swag.  Remember, if you are not going on the Run and want to register simply to show support for the Run, we ask that you go to our donation page and donate the amount of your registration fee instead of registering.  This helps keep our registration records clean so that our dedicated volunteers can better plan for the needs of our riders.

The podcast “Run for the Wall with Boots and Hitch” has generated much interest for those who have not heard of it. In their latest podcast (click here to view), they interviewed “Gunny” Gregory and provided an interesting perspective on the history of RFTW.  Thanks, Boots and Hitch, both of whom volunteered to develop and post these podcasts.  If you are not following them, I encourage you to do so.

As mentioned last month, Midway RC Eric Fort has set up a fund-raising event called A Step to Remember. You can support Eric’s efforts through this Facebook event. I invite you to look at this event and consider contributing to this superhuman effort. This is truly personal for Eric, and his contribution to RFTW in remembrance makes this very special. Just a reminder, any fundraising events must be approved by the RC.  The RCs are responsible for reviewing and approving official RFTW fundraisers.  You need RC approval before launching the event if you use any RFTW intellectual property (logo, name, motto, etc.).

I, along with many others, was blessed to be able to attend the funeral services for U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Ronald Forrester, father of our own Karoni Forrester.  I truly believe that RFTW helped her family over the years and was there to show the world that “We Ride for Those Who Can’t” is more than just a motto.  This is why we ride!  Never forget!  Say their names!  Welcome home, Captain Forrester.  Welcome home.  While this funeral closes the circle of loss, missing, and repatriation for one family, there are so many others who still need our support.  I ask that you keep all in your hearts and prayers.

Finally, I hope you have received word that the RFTW forums are again open and ready for use. We encourage you to use this community, as threads are much easier to follow. Please do so if you have not yet looked at the new forums.

I leave you with this: It is not the worst thing to die in war; it is not the worst thing to be missing in war. The worst thing is to be forgotten in War.

No one is left behind is more than a standard we all live up to. It is a way of life. It is part of our Mission. If you or someone you know finds themselves struggling with mental health, please know you can contact the VA Veteran’s Crisis Line by dialing 988, then pressing 1, or texting 838255 to speak or chat with a qualified responder.

Let us dedicate ourselves and our efforts and remember to keep our focus on the Mission. It is why we ride!

Say Their Names – Tell Their Stories – Never Forget.

Back to Basics. Back to the RFTW Mission.

John “Turkey” Staub
President, RFTW, Inc.
2011- CR FNG
2012 – CR Participant
2013 – CR Staging Team
2014 – 2015 – CR Staging Team Ass’t. Lead
2016-2017 – CR Staging Team Lead
2022 – CR Platoon Coordinator
2023-2024 – CR/SB Road Guard

Happy September Run for the Wall riders!! As we slip into the doldrums of late summer/early fall, I sincerely hope this finds you and yours doing well!

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.

RFTW Philosophy
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. and the Middle East Conflicts Wall Memorial in Marseilles, Illinois in the hope they can return home to a new beginning.

In 2015, Ken “Wish” Hargrove included the following in a newsletter update. It speaks volumes, and is as appropriate today as it was then:

“We Ride for Those Who Can’t”— Six simple words with a very deep and wide meaning. You first-timers, or “FNG’s” as you are known, should be prepared to laugh, to cry, to have your breath taken away and to be humbled.

“We Ride for Those Who Can’t”— We ride for the veteran or family member who is unable to make the ride themself, When doing so we are responsible for carrying their need for healing cross-country to The Wall or from Wall to Wall.

“We Ride for Those Who Can’t”— We ride for our fellow riders who are in need of healing and in need of support as they are welcomed home, many for the first time ever.

“We Ride for Those Who Can’t”— We ride to bring awareness of the POW/MIA issues and the thousands of our brethren who have yet to be brought back home and to shine a light on the government’s lack of attention to this solemn commitment to leave no one behind.

“We Ride for Those Who Can’t”— We ride out of respect and support for our current serving military who are in harm’s way and who are at the beck and call of our nation’s needs.

Remember – There remain 1575 still missing which means more than 1575 families who are still looking for answers…Say Their Names – Tell Their Stories – Never Forget

Ann and I, along with many others, attended the Angel Fire reunion and as always, it was a memorable event. 138 RFTW riders and friends from all four routes came together to perform maintenance and lay 537 remembrance bricks at one of the most moving monuments in the country. We said each of their names, their stories were shared. We collectively helped ensure they will not be forgotten. I know many of our riders attend similar events at other locations. If you weren’t able to attend the Angel Fire reunion this year, perhaps you can attend the upcoming event in Kerrville, TX, another great event.

With that in mind, I would like to remind folks that we receive many positive comments about the regional/state lunch or dinner get togethers. These have proven to be a great way to keep the spirit alive and get the word out; some even take practice formation rides post lunch just to keep the skill set active. If you are considering hosting one of these events, we heartily encourage doing so. Just because it isn’t May doesn’t mean we can’t keep the message alive. And if you need assistance in contacting RFTW riders in your area, please send an email to Risk.Management@rftw.us and Lance can assist in providing names and email addresses to support your efforts. Please note that we do NOT and will NOT release registration information other than names and email addresses for those in your area. Once released, that information may be used only to support RFTW focused events.

If you have been to our website recently, you’ll notice that we now have recurring donations in addition to one-time donations. Donations from our website go to RFTW or to a route, and may not be directed to a team or segment of a route, nor used to purchase pre-paid fuel.  The donation links are intended to provide you a convenient direct method of donating to RFTW or your favorite route.

As our registration director was drilling down into the 2024 registration, we again found a significant number of people who were no-shows. As may occur life sometimes interferes with our best plans. If after registering, you find that you will be unable to participate, the donation of your fees will be very much appreciated.  But there were several responses to the survey sent out that indicated that someone  registered simply to “donate” their registration fee to the Run. While we certainly appreciate them, we really need dedicated donations to be made through the donations portal. Our State Coordinators rely on registration numbers in their planning processes, and no-shows can become quite costly to those who are so generously donating food.  If it looks like you will not be able to make the run, please send an email to Risk.Management@rftw.us. Lance can then adjust the route numbers, and we can have a more accurate count for planning purposes.

Registration will open on September 11^th. Merchandise is working on some “bundle” packages, and our Run 2025 shirt will be available. Remember early registration saves you money.

As much as I hate to be the bearer of not so good news, I need to inform you that our registration fees are going to increase this year by $15. Coast to coast Early Bird registration starting on September 11^th is now set at $60 per person (for a complete list of registration fees, click here). Our insurance costs went up nearly 40% this year; we are trying to advertise more on social media to attract new riders, and we are working to keep our merchandise up to date; but rising costs impact nearly every facet of the Run. Considering what a registered RFTW rider receives on a Coast-to-Coast route this amounts to only $6 per day. When compared with other cross-country rides, RFTW registration is thousands of dollars cheaper. We have to respond to these rising costs as we cannot continue to lose money. Keeping RFTW alive and financially solvent since COVID has been and continues to be an uphill battle.

Eric Fort, our Midway RC for 2025, has set up a fund-raising event called A Step to Remember. You can support Eric’s efforts through this Facebook event. I invite you to look at this event and consider contributing to this superhuman effort. This is truly personal for Eric, and that he is contributing to RFTW in remembrance is very special.

New DC Landing

View on Google Maps. In case you have not yet heard, we will be landing at new host hotels in D.C. in 2025. We simply cannot depend on the availability of the former host hotel any longer, and to be quite honest, I, along with many others, was disappointed in the condition of the hotel and the service and menu selections in the dining room. The other three hotels in Arlington were willing to pick up the slack, but room/parking costs and the lack of a place to “land” drove our decision to move. The new hotels, located in Springfield, VA, are very near an American Legion that is within walking distance. Getting onto the interstate to travel to the Mall and ANC is very easy. The AL post is already opening their doors to us, much like the Elks do in Ontario. They plan on serving meals, etc., even to the folks leaving for Sandbox on Sunday. Room rates will follow soon. Here is a link to Google maps showing the location of our DC landing area:

As discussed in my August newsletter, the Board, in concert with our 2025 RCs, found the need to clarify some operational procedures and instructions. We need our riders to understand that first and foremost, RFTW is a MOTORCYCLE event. While cages and Slingshot-type vehicles are welcome, they CANNOT ride as part of the pack or as part of a team. Similarly, if you are a team lead, you must be on a motorcycle riding with and leading that team. If you are in a cage or Slingshot-type vehicle in support of a team, you CANNOT ride with that team; you MUST ride either well-ahead or behind the team. Our RCs will be enforcing these practices as cages and other non-motorcycle vehicles have been observed on multiple routes riding far too close to our motorcycle groups. Doing so is an unsafe practice that is simply not acceptable.

Like the proliferation of cages and non-motorcycle vehicles, dogs seemed to be a bit problematic in 2024. Between unleashed pets bothering people who were trying to eat and owners not cleaning up after their dogs, we have received multiple complaints. Why some folks think it is okay to let their dogs run loose around a large group of people is beyond me. As such, all dogs must always be kept on a leash and under the direct control of the pet owner. No exceptions. Please keep your pets on a leash and under control.

Finally, I hope you have received word that the RFTW forums are again open and ready for you to use. We encourage you to use this community as threads are much easier to follow. If you have not yet taken a look at the new forums, please do so.

I leave you with this: It is not the worst thing to die in war, it is not the worst thing to be missing in war. The worst thing is to be forgotten in War.

No one left behind is more than a standard we all live up to. It is a way of life. It is part of our Mission. If you or someone you know find themselves struggling with their mental health, please know you can contact the VA Veteran’s Crisis Line by dialing 988 then press 1 or text 838255 and speak or chat with a qualified responder.

Let us dedicate ourselves and our efforts and remember to keep our focus on the Mission. It is why we ride!

Say Their Names – Tell Their Stories – Never Forget.

Back to Basics. Back to the RFTW Mission.

Is it May yet?

John “Turkey” Staub
President, RFTW, Inc.
2011- CR FNG
2012 – CR Participant
2013 – CR Staging Team
2014 – 2015 – CR Staging Team Ass’t. Lead
2016-2017 – CR Staging Team Lead
2022 – CR Platoon Coordinator
2023-2024 – CR/SB Road Guard

I hope this message finds you doing well. The late spring and summer months have been tough, with the passing of dear friends, the nearly uncontrollable wildfires across the country, the heat in some areas and the torrential rain in others. Let’s take a moment to take stock of what we are grateful for, and as we do on the Run, reach out to those less fortunate in their time of need.

 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.

RFTW Philosophy

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. and the Middle East Conflicts Wall Memorial in Marseilles, Illinois in the hope they can return home to a new beginning.

As I write this, Gunny Gregory and a whole host of riders are traveling to Sturgis. Gunny is being inducted into the Sturgis Motorcycle Hall of Fame for his lifelong contributions to motorcycling. In support of this, our Merchandise Director designed and is selling a commemorative shirt based on the original 89’er shirt. If you would like to purchase a limited-edition shirt, just click here. We do not plan on any additional production of this shirt; when they are gone, they are gone.

At the recent Board Face-to-Face Conference, we reviewed the Central Route experiment on using GMRS in lieu of CB radios. The experiment was pretty successful, so much so that the BoD added a change to the SOPs allowing, at the RCs discretion, use of GMRS in lieu of CBs on the RFTW 2025 Run. We anticipate GMRS being the required standard in the next couple of years. Each RC will release more detailed information specific to their route in the very near future.

I recently participated in a podcast covering Run For The Wall. The organization, One Gang Worldwide, asked detailed questions covering many aspects of our Mission and Run.

If you feel it warranted, please feel free to post this to various groups and pages. Please also consider subscribing to their channel. They are ardent supporters of veterans, RFTW, and motorcycle riders, and all-around good folks.

Our calls for AAR’s post Run resulted in our receiving a record number of submittals. Even our FNGs sent AARs – please keep it up! But one word of caution; we often follow-up on AARs, so please ensure they are fact-based and include examples of YOUR observations. I ask this because all too often when we discuss the particulars of an AAR with someone, the feedback we receive is second or third hand.

The content of AARs was also a topic of discussion at the recent Face-to-Face (F2F) conference in Dallas where we covered a lot of territory in a short period of time. I’d like to take a minute to discuss a couple of the prevalent areas of concern, both from a rider’s perspective and the RC/BoD perspective.

One of the things that we find most disturbing is ATTITUDES. I ask that you take a moment and reread the Mission Statement and the RFTW Philosophy shown above. Nowhere does it imply it is okay to bring or display an attitude on the Run. They simply are not acceptable and are inconsistent with both Mission and Philosophy. Far too often we hear of hats publicly berating and even yelling at someone. There is a difference between trying to be heard over the noise of 300 motorcycles and publicly and loudly berating someone. The former is to be expected, the latter – never! Check your attitudes at the door. If you are struggling, seek the private counsel of one of our chaplains, talk it over with your leader.

One of the other issues is the failure of a few Platoon Leaders to properly brief their riders on the daily issues affecting the ride. RCs cannot cover every detail, so they rely on their Platoon Leaders (PL) to take responsibility to ensure their platoon is briefed DAILY. From a review of the AARs, it seems like this mandatory requirement is sometimes glossed over. That omission cannot continue. It is the charge of our PLs to meet and get to know the members of their platoon. You are there to help ensure they and their bikes and gear are ready for the challenges ahead. You are there to help ensure their Run meets the Mission and Philosophy we adhere to.  I’m not suggesting all PLs failed in this area; the numbers are actually quite small. But this was noted on AARs across the routes. One of the items we are currently working on is an RFTW Leadership Guide with expectations of our various leaders outlined along with sample briefing sheets. We hope to have this finalized and published in the next few months. Suggestions in the form of an AAR are always welcome.

There are some forthcoming changes to our organization structure. We’ve redefined the position of Platoon Coordinator and increased the responsibilities of that position, while reducing the administrative demands on the RC and ARC. Your RCs will brief you on these changes and how they are going to implement said changes on their routes.

We also heard quite a bit about meetings in Lot D, and how the information and messages oftentimes did not change across the various groups being addressed. We had a fruitful discussion with the RCs on ways to reduce the number and length of meetings and of the need to focus each meeting on issues impacting the group you are meeting with. Leaders do not need to hear the FNG briefing; in point of fact, much of the leadership meetings can be conducted via Zoom before we ever reach Ontario. Targeted discussions along with more interaction between FNG Coordinators and FNGs seem to be the messages in the AARs.  We hope to meet that goal.

One final note on an issue with which we need your support. Without your ideas and fundraising efforts, RFTW would cease to exist. But we also encountered a couple of frustratingly negative fundraising actions this past year, both of which were conducted by long-time riders. Our fundraising rules exist so that we can protect the interests of RFTW. Fundraisers are RFTW centric or Route specific; you cannot conduct a fundraising activity under the guise of RFTW and then use the money as you see fit. That simply isn’t acceptable and cannot be tolerated. All fundraising activity requests must be sent to the RC, who will in turn coordinate the request for approval in compliance with RFTW By-laws and IRS Charitable organization requirements. Funds raised by a route through the efforts of a volunteer must go directly to the finance person on that route, and from there to the Treasurer.  The funds CANNOT be deposited in a private account and then a check written against that private account to the route finance or the Treasurer. The IRS does not allow or condone that practice. I know it is frustrating, but we can ill afford to come afoul of the IRS.

Also at the F2F, we asked our Secretary to begin breaking apart the SOPs so that the RCs can provide relevant information and expectations to each of their leaders. I know Corey is working on that along with many other things, but we do anticipate this being complete in the next couple of months. More to follow.

On a much brighter side, as you have heard by now, in a special tribute to our origins, RFTW 2025 is the “Year of the Vietnam Vet”. We have special shirts, pins and patches in design and production, along with some other merchandise products supporting that theme, and some potential changes to our route structure for 2025.  On the route structure changes, we asked the RCs to work on developing a Vietnam Vet-only platoon on each route.  This platoon will ride as the first element behind the MMF, led by Vietnam Vets specifically for Vietnam Vets, on the Coast to Coast (C2C) Routes. Also, our Missing Man Formation (MMF) bios on the 3 C2C routes will focus on those who made the ultimate sacrifice in Vietnam. We are also working on a special guest speaker for our departure from Lot D. While it is too early to announce as we do not yet have a firm commitment, we hope to make RFTW 2025 a memorable anniversary year.  Keeping this in mind, 2026 will be the 35^th Anniversary of Operation Desert Storm and we are already working on plans for that Run.

On the really good news front, there are a couple of announcements that are forth coming on some long-awaited topics. I don’t want to steal the thunder of the directors working on these projects, so they will be posting individual announcements in the near future.

I leave you with this: It is not the worst thing to die in war, it is not the worst thing to be missing in war. The worst thing is to be forgotten in War.

No one left behind is more than a standard we all live up to. It is a way of life. It is part of our Mission. If you or someone you know find themselves struggling with their mental health, please know you can contact the VA Veteran’s Crisis Line by dialing 988 then press 1 or text 838255 and speak or chat with a qualified responder.

Let us dedicate ourselves and our efforts and remember to keep our focus on the Mission. It is why we ride!

John “Turkey” Staub
President, RFTW, Inc.
2011- CR FNG
2012 – CR Participant
2013 – CR Staging Team
2014 – 2015 – CR Staging Team Ass’t. Lead
2016-2017 – CR Staging Team Lead
2022 – CR Platoon Coordinator
2023-2024 – CR/SB Road Guard

John “Turkey” Staub
President, RFTW, Inc.
2011- CR FNG
2012 – CR Participant
2013 – CR Staging Team
2014 – 2015 – CR Staging Team Ass’t. Lead
2016-2017 – CR Staging Team Lead
2022 – CR Platoon Coordinator
2023-2024 – CR/SB Road Guard

Here is a very special announcement for those Run 2024 participants.  Mark Ruffalo, a Central Route FNG this year and the owner of California Harley-Davidson, is offering a RFTW 24 Hero 2023 Model Blowout Sale!!

Contact Mark Ruffalo via text message at 949-610-9484 with your name, 2023 model and color preference, and he will check availability while supplies last.  These are 2023 models at dealer cost!!

Thank you Mark for riding with us this year, and especially for your support to our riders!!!

John “Turkey” Staub
President, RFTW, Inc.
2011- CR FNG
2012 – CR Participant
2013 – CR Staging Team
2014 – 2015 – CR Staging Team Ass’t. Lead
2016-2017 – CR Staging Team Lead
2022 – CR Platoon Coordinator
2023-2024 – CR/SB Road Guard

The Group Photo at the Lincoln Memorial is ON!!!

However, we will NOT be taking the photo on the steps.  Instead, our request for use of the Reflecting Pool as a backdrop was approved today!  As mentioned earlier, please do NOT begin gathering at the steps.  Gail and others will be near the reflecting pool to provide instructions on how to assemble.  We will not have a lot of time to take the photo, so please bring plenty of patience, listen carefully, and move smartly.  And please remember, no singing, chanting, shouting, etc.

Also, the National Park Service has reminded us that there will be NO PARKING ON THE GRASS ANYWHERE, NO PARKING on 23^rd St NW, and NO PARKING on Henry Bacon Dr. NW.  Violators will likely be ticketed. (Metro, Taxi, Uber, or other ride service/public transportation is highly recommended.)

On the Ontario Side of Things

The two ladies who sew for us and donate a percentage of their proceeds back to RFTW will NOT be at the Elks Lodge on Friday and Saturday.  Instead, they will be located at the Holiday Inn (Host Hotel) in the back lot – in the same place as last year.

The Ontario Pre-Run Schedule of Events Has Now Been Posted

Find the Ontario Pre-run Schedule on our website under each route’s schedule of events, or you can view it by clicking here. Much appreciation to Carol and Todd Taylor for all the work getting this event organized. When you see Carol, please be sure to thank her and her team of volunteers.

There will be a shuttle in Ontario this year running continuous loops between the Host Hotel and the Elks Lodge. The hours of operation are:
May 12th…………….1200 to 2000Hrs.
May 13th…………….0700 to 2100Hrs.
May 14th…………….0700 to 2100Hrs.

Addresses from and to are:
Holiday Inn Ontario, 2155 E Convention Center Way, Ontario, CA 91764
Ontario Elks Lodge, 1150 W 4th Street, Ontario, CA 91762.

The intrepid Carol has arranged for RFTW advertising, at no cost, on 6 billboards in and around the Ontario area, including the 210, 15, 10 and 60 freeways. These are in addition to the marquee at the Ontario Convention Center. Get the word out to the public!!

Bitchin’ Stitchin’ will be back doing patches, zippers, snaps, repairs, etc. this year. They will be located at the Elks Club. I would like to encourage you to use them as they donate a portion of their proceeds back to RFTW. Their hours of operation are:

5/10 Friday 14:00 – 18:00
5/11 – 5/14  09:00 – 18:00

The DC/Arlington schedule, contained in some of the Route’s itineraries, is as follows:

Saturday, 25 May

For those selected to conduct the wreath laying ceremony at ANC, staging begins at the Host Hotel at 0630 in the lower-level garage at the host hotel.  Please be staged NLT 0730 so you don’t miss the mandatory safety meeting. KSU is at 0800. Please see your RC for more information on participation.

0900-1015 – Sandbox registration (host hotel lobby)

1100 – Begin assembling on the STEPS of the Lincoln Memorial (see additional comments below)

1130 – Photo

1215 – Mission Accomplished ceremony at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial apex

1300-1600 – Sandbox Registration (host hotel lobby)

1400-1530 – Leadership Equipment pickup

1430-1500 – SB Road Guard meeting

1500-1530 – SB Team Leads meeting

1530-1630 – All Leadership Meeting

1630 – 1730 – SB All riders meeting

1730-1800 – SB SNG Recap

As a reminder, at the Lincoln Memorial, there can be no chanting, singing, bullhorns, etc. Also, you must NOT climb or sit on any of the columns or pedestals; we are to remain on the steps. Please help us comply with this Park Service request. Our compliance will help us ensure we can obtain permits in the future.

Also, remember, there is to be no parking on the grass in and around the National Mall. Doing so may result in having your motorcycle towed and impounded. Being as this is a holiday weekend, getting it released from impound might prove difficult.

RFTW now has a Social Media Director. KC is working hard to try and take advantage of this year’s Run. If you would like to share your experience with RFTW via video footage or still photography, he will edit them to fit within the variety of social media parameters. We will include your name, road name, the route and location of the footage.

KC also offers the following: For those that will be using action cameras (GoPro, Insta360, or DJI’s), to save your battery life and keep your camera from overheating when riding and or losing your footage or worse corrupting the SD card, carry extra SD cards. KC also suggests turning off your Wi-Fi pairing when not in use. This helps if you are in areas where your cell services may go into roaming mode.

If you are using a GMRS radio, we recommend you not have your cameras connected to your phones. This may cause a disruption in communications or generate a very loud squelch-type noise.

Our YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/c/rftwus. Both X (Twitter) and Instagram are @RunForTheWall (https://twitter.com/RunForTheWall and https://www.instagram.com/RunForTheWall). When you make posts to ANY social media platform, please use #runforthewall. We ask that you do not use other naming conventions (i.e., #rftw-midway, or #runforthewallsr, etc.) as those will negatively impact our efforts to bring viewers to our posts and platforms. Remember we always want to post pictures and videos that honor our Mission.

KC is working on bringing the roughly 11 Run For The Wall non-FB social media sites under one “cover” so we can all easily post contributions.

Please remember, RFTW does not support any political candidate, position, or opinion. We are a veterans support charitable organization, and we ask that each and every one of you respect that. There is no room for politics on the Run; there will be enough time for that later. As we all know so well, our world is ever changing. Events are sometimes magnets for those whose ideas and ideals do not align with ours. Keep your eyes open, and if you see something, say something. Do not just shrug it off; let a leader know.

Finally, before we go to KSU, I believe it is proper to remember why we ride. It is not about any of us, it is not about the color of the hat one wears, it is not about taking a cross-country motorcycle ride. It is about our Mission. We need to keep in mind that “We Ride for Those Who Can’t” is more than just a motto. This Mission is about calling for accountability of those 1577 still missing; it is about supporting those families still seeking answers. Our Mission is also about reflection, healing, educating, and reminding America of the sacrifices our veterans, their families and friends made in defense of our Nation. It is about thanking those who served, those who are serving, and those who paid the ultimate price. Our Run is also a joyous annual reunion as we all regroup and set our sights toward that Mission. And though our Annual Run is certainly an event worth celebrating, please keep in mind that our Mission is real and should be treated with Honor and serious Commitment. It must not be treated like a party.

No one left behind is more than a standard we all live up to. It is a way of life. It is part of our Mission. If you or someone you know find themselves struggling with their mental health, please know you can contact the VA Veteran’s Crisis Line by dialing 988 then press 1 or text 838255 and speak or chat with a qualified responder.

KSU is in 22 days. Let’s all get our heads in the game and put the Mission in our sights.

Say Their Names – Tell Their Stories – Never Forget.

Back to Basics. Back to the RFTW Mission.

Is it May yet?

John “Turkey” Staub
President, RFTW, Inc.
2011- CR FNG
2012 – CR Participant
2013 – CR Staging Team
2014 – 2015 – CR Staging Team Ass’t. Lead
2016-2017 – CR Staging Team Lead
2022 – CR Platoon Coordinator
2023 – CR and Sandbox Road Guard
2020 – Present – RFTW BoD member

Additional Ontario Motorcycle Service Information

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Harley-Davidson®

Riverside Harley-Davidson
7688 Indiana Ave, Riverside, CA 92504
Phone: 1-951-785-0100 OR 1-833-743-0517
Hours: M-F 10AM-7PM – Sat 9AM-6PM – Sun 10AM-5PM

Note: The service manager has requested to call ahead and schedule all service  appointments. This will help the service manager to better staff the shop to get all  service appointments done in a quick and timely manner so as to cut down on delays. If you show up without scheduling an appointment you will be serviced but BE PREPARED TO WAIT!!!

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Honda – Yamaha – Suzuki – Kawasaki*

The following dealer will be providing (limited) service…
*NOTE: For Kawasaki motorcycles they will only be performing basic oil/filter changes.

Mountain Motorsports
1025 N. Mountain Ave, Ontario, CA 91762
Phone: 1-909-988-8988
Hours: M-F 10AM–5PM – Sat 9AM-4PM – (CLOSED SUNDAY)

Note: The service manager has requested to call ahead and schedule all service  appointments. This will help the service manager to better staff the shop to get all  service appointments done in a quick and timely manner.

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Indian

HYR – Honda/Yamaha of Redlands
215 E Redlands Blvd, Redlands, CA 92373
Phone: 1-909-793-2833
Hours: Tues – Sat 9AM-6PM (CLOSED SUNDAY & MONDAY)

Note: The service manager has requested to call ahead and schedule all service  appointments. This will help the service manager to better staff the shop to get all  service appointments done in a quick and timely manner.

Happy Easter!! As I sit down to write this, we are 45 days from KSU.

We are getting close. Can you feel it? Is it May yet? Have you completed your packing list? Have you gone through your meds list and made sure you have what you will need? Have you gone over your motorcycle and checked every nut and bolt? Have you checked your tires? Have you taken a few long rides to tune up your body? Are you prepared?

Since before we finished the Run last year, our volunteer State Coordinators (SC) and others have been diligently working on the details for each route. It takes the coordinated effort of thousands to ensure the success of each route. I tip my hat to each and every one that has worked so hard to prepare for Run 2024!

Along that same line, as you pass through the food line at your stops, keep in mind that an entire group of people took time out of their lives to ensure you receive sustenance. Look for a donation jar somewhere along that line and drop a few dollars in to help pay for whatever service it is they are providing. Each route passes through towns where oftentimes the locals are barely scratching out a living, yet here they are donating to our mission. Even if we find ourselves in the most economically prosperous town in America, be thankful, remember to say thank you, pick up your trash, and if you can, offer a donation. Your kindness goes a long way. And remember, nothing is free. We often receive the benefit of donated gas and food, but none of it is free. Each of us is an ambassador for RFTW.

If you have not registered, doing so now will assist our SCs. The more details they can pass on to those supporting us in the towns we visit, the easier the visit will go. Even if you are only going to ride for a day, register as a day rider so we can ensure we accommodate as many people as possible. Early registration also assists the platoon coordinator on each route to better plan the platoon configurations. Take a moment to click here and register.

There are still several volunteer positions available on both Midway and Southern routes. Midway route needs staging team members (mailto:gina.cutrer@rftw.us for more information) and Southern route needs Platoon Leaders, Asst. Platoon Leaders, and Tail Gunners (mailto: kevin.short@rftw.us). You can also submit a volunteer form by clicking here.

RFTW leadership is focused on safety. When leading such a large, diverse group of riders with various experience levels, safety needs to be a priority. To that end, we have 348 FNGs registered already. Bernadette “Flat Tire” Staples and Lance “Batman” Wheeler, both certified instructors, are hosting a slow-riding practice session in Ontario on Monday afternoon, 1300-1800 at Lot D. Now there simply isn’t a way we can accommodate everyone, but if you are an FNG or need to practice your slow riding skills, like those skills you will need when you pull into or leave gas pumps, maneuvering around the staging area, hotel, etc., please sign up by sending an email to mailto:risk.management@rftw.us. There is limited availability, so I encourage you to sign up early.

As we transition from planning and preparation to execution of our Mission, our Platoon Leaders and Road Guards step it up to address their responsibilities on the Run; primarily working with a group of riders who have likely never ridden together, let alone in a formation, and molding the group into a team. While every volunteer leader has a vital role, when the rubber meets the road, you will notice the Platoon Leaders working closely with the Road Guards to safely guide you across this great nation of ours. Just like the morning meetings held by the RCs, the Platoon Leaders too will hold morning meetings, most often with a Road Guard in attendance. If you are not up to riding in a particular formation, if you do not feel comfortable doing so, speak with your Platoon Leader or Assistant Platoon Leader. Your PL and APL are there to help and guide you. The same thing holds true if a PL or RG provides guidance or asks you questions. They do so out of concern for your safety. The PLs and RGs are experienced riders and have your best interests at heart. Your safety and the safety of those around you may depend on your listening to their guidance.

I have been documenting the history of the Board and am in a months-long effort to track down all that served on the Board. I have been able to identify 73 people who have served at various times, along with every RC on every route since the beginning of the Run. Many of you jumped in when contacted and assisted, and your contributions aided immensely. Despite our best efforts, I am still missing dates served for: Ronald “Frenchie” Breaux, Mark “Diesel” Breland, Colin “Dr. Doolittle” Campbell, Ron “Rambler” Eschinger, Don “Duckie” Fleischman, Rich “Boomer” Ford, J.R. “Cleaner” Franklin, John “Iron Fish” Handley, Doug “Gator” James, Don “9-Ball” Morris, Tom “T-bone” Ritter, and Dwight “Dutch” Stevens. I called numbers that looked promising, looked through what seems like a gazillion Facebook friends lists, sent messages, etc., and am still missing dates served for these folks. If you have any relevant information on these folks, please email me with that information at president@rftw.us. Your continued assistance is appreciated!

During this process, I was able to go through some of the archived files to include past newsletters. In doing so I was struck by a number of things. Going back to the first newsletter I could find (1999), there were discussions on the need to focus on the Mission, the reminders of “why we ride” and who we represent. As much as things change, they remain the same. I read that in 2004, there was mention of a post-RFTW run called Wall to Wall. It was a run from D.C. to the Canadian Vietnam Veterans Wall. Today, our Wall to Wall is from D.C. to Marseilles, IL. RFTW newsletters contained stories and testimonials written by riders and submitted for publication. Today, you will find some of the same type of stories posted on various social media sites. Discussions of merchandise available were in every newsletter. Today we rely on social media to get the merchandise word out. That said, one of the things that struck me were the many who volunteered to tell their stories; stories of their Run experiences, their concern for fellow veterans, one even described how his granddaughter received her road name while on the Run. But the one thing that really stood out was that it was Mission first. Reminders to check your attitude were prevalent. As we get ready for Run 2024, please take some time to remind yourself why we ride, and remember, We Ride For Those Who Can’t.

As I announced in last month’s newsletter, we currently have an active Sustainment Committee looking at all things RFTW. The committee is composed of riders from all routes with an eye towards ensuring we are prepared for whatever the future holds. A member of the committee may approach you while in Ontario or on the Run as we are seeking feedback on your thoughts. If you would please, take the time to discuss your ideas or concerns if approached. Your contributions will help us ensure the sustainability of RFTW. And please remember, if you have a suggestion on how we can do things better, fill out a contact form and provide us your input. In the start of your message, please indicate that this contact form is for the Sustainment Committee.

A couple of final things. RFTW does not support any political candidate, position, or opinion. We are a veterans support charitable organization, and we ask that each and every one of you respect that. There is no room for politics on the Run; there will be enough time for that later. And finally, our world is ever changing. Events are sometimes magnets for those whose ideas and ideals do not align with ours. Keep your eyes open, and if you see something, say something. Do not just shrug it off; let a leader know.

No one left behind is more than a standard we all live up to. It is a way of life. It is part of our Mission. If you or someone you know find themselves struggling with their mental health, please know you can contact the VA Veteran’s Crisis Line by dialing 988 then press 1 or text 838255 and speak or chat with a qualified responder.

Let us remember to keep our focus on the Mission. It is why we ride!

Say Their Names – Tell Their Stories – Never Forget.

Back to Basics. Back to the RFTW Mission.

Is it May yet?

John “Turkey” Staub
President, RFTW, Inc.
2011- CR FNG
2012 – CR Participant
2013 – CR Staging Team
2014 – 2015 – CR Staging Team Ass’t. Lead
2016-2017 – CR Staging Team Lead
2022 – CR Platoon Coordinator
2023 – CR and Sandbox Road Guard
2020 – Present – RFTW BoD member