It’s with a heavy heart that we inform the Southern Route family that Danny MacGillivray, aka Jellybean, the SR Road Guard of yesteryear, passed away at night on 12/11/2024. Robert “Old School” Reavis has been updating us on Facebook, and it sounded like he was improving, but this is a sad surprise. May God Bless and watch over him and his family.
Lennie “Big Red” Hodson
2025 Southern Route Coordinator
Where has the year gone? It’s December, and Christmas and Hanukka are right around the corner. Happy Holidays to all!
Our state coordinators are busy with last-minute details to secure our hotels. There’s also good news to report: where we have a new lunch stop on day 6 in Jackson, Mississippi. The Harley Davidson Dealership we used to stop at had been sold, and the new owner is still organizing the store. Our state coordinators have lined up the Shriners (Wasabi Center), and they have graciously stepped up to host us.
We still need trained medical personnel for our medical team. If you’re interested or know someone who is, please fill out a volunteer application or contact me directly. The Merchandise teams on all routes also need help. No experience is necessary, and training will be provided. If interested, contact the Merchandise Director, Alan “Xbox” Steiner, at merchandise@rftw.us or fill out a volunteer application.
Remember that registration prices go up in February, so if you haven’t registered, do so today. Not only will it save you a little money, but it will also help all the RFTW volunteers and our community partners plan and prepare meals.
In closing, remember to check on family and friends you haven’t spoken with for a while. We’re a community and checking on each other is important.
“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.
“Say Their Names, Tell Their Stories, Never Forget”
To Honor and Remember Their Sacrifice
Merry Christmas,
Lennie “Big Red” Hodson
Southern Route Coordinator 2025
An early Happy Thanksgiving to all! I hope everyone can enjoy spending time with family and friends. Let’s remember all of our troops deployed around the world and keep them in our prayers.
One correction from last month’s newsletter is that you must have been issued a Vietnam Service Medal (ribbon) to ride in the Vietnam Veterans Platoon. I apologize for the confusion. This special Vietnam Veterans Platoon is being put together in honor of the 50th anniversary of the end of the war. We will also celebrate the 35th anniversary of Run For The Wall.
The planning and Preparation for the RFTW 2025 Mission continue, and we are still looking for volunteers, especially for the Medical positions. If interested, you can fill out a volunteer form HERE. We need people with experience as RNs, LVNs, EMTs, etc. You can ride a bike or be in an air-conditioned
vehicle.
Also, our Road Guard Captain, Don “Doc” Wood, is looking for a few Road Guard Candidates. You must ride a two-wheel motorcycle and have ridden All The Way at least once. Don’s contact information can be found on the Southern Route Contacts List.
Register for the 2025 Run now
The Southern Route now has over 100 registered riders and participants. If you have not registered yet, please do so as soon as possible. Early registration helps us plan for our stops and hotel accommodations. Early registration ends on January 31, 2025, and registration costs increase on February 1, 2025. You can Register HERE. If you are in leadership, please register now. If you are an FNG, please register as early as you can. We know plans can change.
RFTW Forum
Please know there is a great resource tool for all of us in the RFTW Forum. It’s a great place to learn from others and ask questions. There are very good videos from Kirk “Pretty Boy” Olsen showing you how to program the new GMRS radios used on all the runs this year. Leadership positions need to have the radios, but it’s an option for all others. Sometimes, it’s nice to hear what’s being discussed so you know what’s going on when we’re starting out and picking up speed. If you’re not in a leadership position, the request is that you’re in listening mode only, but these new radios are not that expensive and pair to Bluetooth headsets easily. There are many other reasons to be on the forum. If you need to share hotel rooms to save a few dollars, there’s a section for that. Local monthly meetings are discussed, Runs to the run, and good discussions sharing ideas.
In closing, I encourage you to read about The Last Battle of the Vietnam War, the Mayaguez Incident. It’s an interesting read. Here’s a link to a good article about it: The Mayaguez Incident.
“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.
“SAY THEIR NAMES, TELL THEIR STORIES,NEVER FORGET’
TO HONOR AND REMEMBER THEIR SACRIFICE
Lennie “Big Red” Hodson
Southern Route Coordinator 2025
Happy Halloween to all you ghosts and goblins,
First, I want to thank Juice and Pickles (Phillip and Belinda Tutton) for their great job Hosting their first year of the Texas Riders Reunion in Kerrville, Texas. It was a great time.
It’s also important to remember and support our family members on the East Coast who have just been through a devastating hurricane. We travel through these areas, and many of our RFTW family live there, not to mention the strong supporters of our mission. Prayers go out to all who have been affected.
The planning and preparations for 2025 are well underway. State coordinators are busy securing hotels, fuel stops, and meeting with community leaders for meals. Be sure to thank these folks when you see them during the run. They work all year long to help pull off the magic of the run. Early Registration is open. Please register as soon as possible, as this helps us plan for our stops and hotel accommodations. Remember, the price goes up on February 1st of next year, and you lose the early bird discount. You can Register Here.
As part of the 50th anniversary of the last battle of the Vietnam War, we will have a Platoon just for Vietnam Vets and Vietnam-era vets; this platoon will be for 2 or 3-wheel motorcycles and Can-Ams, sorry, no bikes with trailers. This platoon even gets to be towards the front of the pack, for a lot of the run. So, when you finalize your registration in Ontario or wherever you join the run, ask to be assigned to the Veterans platoon if you qualify.
If you’d like to ride in honor of a fallen loved one or friend in the Missing Man Formation, you should contact Bill “Maverick” Leonard at bill.leonard@rftw.us: preference will be given to FNG’s (Fine New Guys / Gals). Also, many wreath ceremonies at our memorial stops will need Honor Guards to help with the wreath laying. if you’d like to volunteer for one of these slots, please get in touch with Brian Turner, our Honor Guard Coordinator, at turnercatchief@gmail.com. No prior experience is required. It’s a rewarding experience, and if you don’t have the marching experience, or you think it’s been so long you won’t remember, this is a good opportunity to re-remember or learn what it’s like. Brian is a great drill instructor (DI) , uh, teacher!!
We also have a new patch being developed and manufactured. This patch will be available on the run, starting in Ontario. Looking forward to seeing everyone there, wearing a patch by the time we get to DC!
We are still looking for Medical team members, if you are a credentialed RN, Para Medic or EMT and you’d like to volunteer, you can contact me at lennie.hodson@rftw.us; also still in need of an RMO (Risk Management Officer). This position requires detailed report writing, drawing, law enforcement background is a plus.
Southern Route Moto for 2025 Will be “To Honor and Remember Their Sacrifice”
“Say Their Names, Tell Their Stories, Never Forget”
Lennie “Big Red” Hodson
Southern Route Coordinator 2025
Below is a message from Karoni Forrester regarding her Dad’s Funeral Service. There’s a lot of details in this message. If you’re planning to attend, please read carefully.
This is why we ride! Never forget! Say their names!
Lennie Big Red Hodson
—————— From Karoni ——————-
Hi all –
As October 7th is now just around the corner, I want to share additional details about Daddy’s funeral for all planning to join us in DC. For those who can’t make it, both the funeral and graveside services will be live streamed with the funeral home. More details on that as they are available.
First, if you didn’t the update about the start time change, the funeral service will be held at 1:30 p.m. and the graveside service will be a 3:00 p.m. The change is due to finding a creative solution to an unfortunate oversight.
For anyone planning to come that has not booked a hotel, Dad’s family and friends will be staying at the Sheraton Pentagon City (link at the bottom of the email). Many have asked if we’ve got anything planned prior to the service. I do expect people will gather around the hotel, restaurants in the area, etc. The only “official” gathering is a reception after the services.
To gain access to Fort Myer, you will need to pre-register as a guest to get a pass unless you have a military ID. The link to pre-register/obtain pass is also at the bottom of this email. My understanding is you can pre-register as much as 7 days in advance. You will need a photo ID to gain access on base, even with the pass. All passengers in/on the vehicle must also have their ID (if old enough to have an ID).
Entrance to Fort Myer should be through the Fort Myer Hatfield Gate:
Plan to arrival an hour ahead of time for access onto base (aka 12:30 p.m.)
The funeral will be held at the 1:30 at the Community Activities Center:
We have budgeted enough time between the funeral service and our entrance into Arlington National Cemetery, but JUST enough time. There is a fly-over planned (weather permitting), so our schedule has no wiggle room for visiting at that time. I kindly ask you save visiting for the reception, because we’ve got to get a move on!
We will exit Fort Myer and swing around to the front/main entrance into Arlington. We will have maps, but also – follow the car in front of you! When you get onto Memorial Drive, you’ll stay to the right and line up alongside the road as instructed by ANC officials directing traffic. Simply tell them you’re there for the Forrester 3:00 service. Yes, there is some “hurry up and wait” going on, but it’s a military base and military funeral, so it’s to be expected. Semper Gumby!
After the graveside service, we will go back to Fort Myer for a reception. It will be a nice to for reflection, to see old friends and make new ones. Your pass used for the funeral will get you back onto base. Don’t lose it!
The reception will be held at Patton Hall Community Club:
I look forward to seeing you in a few weeks! I greatly appreciate all of the love and support our family has received through the many years, and especially now as we finally lay Dad to rest. Words can’t adequately express our gratitude; know we are thankful. Please forward as appropriate.
Sincerely,
Karoni
PS – YES, motorcycle vests and jeans are appropriate attire! No concerns. I do appreciate those who asked to confirm.
Sheraton Pentagon City:
https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/wasgs-sheraton-pentagon-city-hotel/overview/
Fort Myer Guest Access:
Access Control & Gate Information :: Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall (army.mil)
It’s hard to believe we’re halfway through September already. Most importantly, for this newsletter, let me introduce myself. I’m Lennie “Big Red” Hodson, now the Southern Route Coordinator. The Board of Directors has approved this, along with some other choices of people filling the roles we need. Ken “Radar” Ley has stepped down for Personal and family reasons. I was going to be the ARC in 2025 and have now been asked to step into Ken’s role. We wish Ken well and know we will see him in the future once again.
A little about myself: I was born and raised in Southern California and have lived in Southern Arizona for the last 6 1/2 years. I served two years in the U.S. Army with a tour in Vietnam as a combat Infantryman and two years with the National Guard. My RFTW journey began in 2010 on the Southern Route going ATW, and I’ve continued every year since. I’ve worked in leadership since 2012 as a platoon TG, APL &PL. The welcome home from RFTW has meant so much to me; I am honored to give back as a Route Coordinator and lead you wonderful people through our great country.
David “Buzz” Mullen has agreed to be the Assistant Route Coordinator. From Buzz: “I am humbled and proud to be the Southern Route Assistant Route Coordinator for our 2025 Run”. Buzz’s FNG year was in 2014. He rode with Roger “Cowboy” Mead in First Platoon, where he was assigned to Tail Gunner when needed. Buzz was also asked to fill in for the Assistant Platoon Leader when the APL was tasked with an Outreach Mission. His next All The Way (ATW) year was in 2016, when his wife, Blanca (FNG), and he joined Joe “Gump” Hudson in riding portions of all three routes. That was a great learning experience of each route, which could apply to RFTW roles. Buzz then held various positions in future Runs from 2017 through 2024, including being a Platoon Leader, Tail Gunner (again), Finance Assistant/Tail Gunner, and his last posting was Road Guard in 2023 and 2024. We look forward to Buzz as the ARC for Run For The Wall 2025.
Other announcements: Don “Doc” Wood will be our Road Guard Captain. Bill “Maverick” Leonard will be our Missing Man Coordinator. More info about these guys who stepped up will be coming next month. Lee Thatcher stepped up to be our Tennessee State Coordinator. That’s another important “work all-year” job to have everything planned out for our riding through the state.
As you read this newsletter, please know that Registration is now open. As with everything in our life lately, increased fees have become necessary because our costs have increased. Early registration is now $60, and considering all that we participate in along the way, it’s still a heck of a deal. Please see the President’s latest newsletter for complete details.
Leadership team leads are in place, and their teams are being formed, if you are interested in volunteering, please submit a volunteer form. Volunteer forms can be accessed here. State Coordinators are working to secure hotel rooms, fuel stops, and working with local communities and organizations to raise funds and provide meals. The state coordinators are working hard all year long to make all these pieces fit together. We do have a couple of very important positions open and if you would like to contribute, please put a volunteer form in. We are in need of a couple of folks with medical training. RN, LVN or military medic training. We also need a 50/50 raffle rouser to help sell tickets, which is an essential part of our fundraising to support our mission. Please consider these needs. Volunteer forms are available on the RFTW website here. These positions are under “Leadership Support” category.
We will again be offering prepaid fuel. More details will be announced in the January newsletter regarding pre-paid fuel. Prepaid fuel helps the fueling process a lot. Please seriously consider this if you haven’t used it yet or are an FNG going for the first time. There’s no fumbling for cash at the non-donated stops. The fueling process moves faster so you can get to the hydration station faster; planning is more straightforward for leadership all around, and it’s simply a nice improvement. There will be a new host location for our landing spot, which will be in Springfield, Virginia, on day ten, more to come about that. Hotel information will be released on January 1, 2025.
Don’t forget about the Kerrville, TX Riders reunion on September 27-29. You can find more information on the Facebook page and the RFTW Forum. Yes, the forum is back! It’s a great place to learn about participating in the run. As an FNG, you can ask questions, get hints on how or what to pack (or not pack), find roommates to share hotel costs with if you are traveling solo, and learn about changes like the new communication system we’re transitioning to since CB radios are fading away. I want to clarify that the new communication system is for leadership roles such as the RC, ARC, Road Guards, Platoon Leaders, etc., but anyone can listen. It’s unnecessary if you’re not in a leadership position, but it’s an option if you’re interested in listening. Since it’s a new method, there’s a lot to learn about using it correctly.
I also want to give a shout-out to Ted “Boots” Kapner and Taisha (Hitch) Harmon for a great PodCast. Episode 1 has been uploaded on many forums. It’s a fun and informative podcast. I think I speak for everyone in we look forward to more to come.
“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.
Lennie “Big Red” Hodson
Southern Route Coordinator – 2025
Here it is August already, and with the face-to-face board meeting behind us, I am happy to say that the preparations for Southern Route 2025 are progressing well. I want to introduce myself as the Southern Route Coordinator. My name is Ken “Radar” Ley, and my assistant route coordinator is Lennie “Big Red” Hodson. We have been sifting through the volunteer request forms and after-action reports, getting them into the hands of individual team leads who can best use them. If you would like to volunteer to assist the route but have not submitted a volunteer form yet, please do so. I recognize that sometimes, on the run, we say to the leadership team that we will be returning, team leads change, and personal texts and emails get lost or deleted, so please go to RFTW.US and click the volunteer link, fill out the request, and send it in. Like the After-action-Reports, we read them all.
My journey with Southern Route began in 2000, my FNG year. That year, I rode from New Mexico to D.C. In 2001 and 2002, I could only manage a leg as a day rider due to family commitments. In 2015, I rode from Wentzville MO to Rainelle WV. In 2016, I was planning my first all-the-way year when I was offered a new position on SR in leadership support. Since then, I have ridden on SR every year. This personal journey is a testament to the transformative power of our community and the opportunities it offers.
I want to remind everyone that the Angel Fire brick laying is quickly approaching and will be held from August 30th through September 1st in New Mexico. If you like it a bit warmer, the Kerrville TX rides reunion is September 27-29 this year. There is a TX RIDERS REUNION FB page for hotel and other registration needs.
There are many exciting developments for this year’s ride, and in the coming days, the President of the Board will make some important announcements. I am eagerly looking forward to discussing these in our next newsletter. For now, I encourage you to continue enjoying your summer and riding safely, and I hope to see you in Kerrville this year.
“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.
Ken “Radar” Ley
Some of you may or may not know that in May 2024 the Central Route piloted and tested a new communications system for on-road communications while underway during our Mission from Ontario, CA to Washington, DC. GMRS Radios were used, and a GMRS repeater was also tested. This technology has much further range than CB, and with clearer reception and transmission.
CB radio service was originally established in 1949 and their usefulness and heyday of the 1970s has been outlived. A new replacement was needed for the unique communication requirements of RFTW. Motorcycle manufacturers have been discontinuing installing or offering CBs, or if they do, they are very expensive. And third-party motorcycle CB radio manufacturers, like J&M have also stopped making and supporting them.
The purpose of the test was to see how well it worked for RFTW. The results of the test in May 2024 was positive and exceeded expectations in most cases. Communications were clear with no relays needed to pass messages and the comms range was significantly extended with no outside interference.
At the July 20, 2024 BoD meeting, the BoD changed the SOP to allow GMRS as an option, and then left it up to each Route Coordinator’s sole discretion and decision to use CB or the newer GMRS Comms for the Run in 2025 for his respective route.
On July 29, 2024 all of the 2025 Route Coordinators (Central, Southern, Midway, and Sandbox) met in a separate RC only meeting without the Executive BoD. ALL FOUR Route Coordinators are in lockstep, and unanimously decided that GMRS Radio Communications is the way to go and decided that all routes will use GMRS in 2025 as the primary mode of on-road communications for RFTW.
This means that ALL PACK Leadership WILL BE REQUIRED to have and use a GMRS Radio in 2025, i.e. All Platoon Leaders, APL’s, Tail Gunners, Road Guards, Chaplains, Medics, and Chase will need a GMRS Radio. Pack riders and FNGs are also certainly allowed to get a radio and listen.
Regarding outrider and forward crews and teams such as Fuel, Staging, Ambassadors, and Outreach, it is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED that you start to use and get on the GMRS bandwagon as you will be able to hear the pack miles before they get to your location.
There are numerous off-the-shelf radios available that can be made Bluetooth capable if you have a Bluetooth helmet headset, like a Sena or a Cardo. If you do not use a Bluetooth helmet set-up, there are some wired solutions available, as well.
Option 1: (This option is a HIGH recommendation. Bluetooth Capable)
The radio is available at the BTECH website, and at Amazon
BTECH GMRS Pro Radio: https://baofengtech.com/product/gmrs-pro/ref/gmrs/
Get the wireless PTT Button, and maybe a spare.
https://baofengtech.com/product/bs-ptt/ref/gmrs/
Use Coupon Code: RFTW
You will get both the Radio and Wireless PTT button for $152.44.
Must Add Both items, GMRS Pro radio, and wireless PTT button to BTECH online cart.
Deal Available at the the BTECH Website, not Amazon and not an Amazon Cart.
This is an optional adapter cable for K-1 type accessories:
https://baofengtech.com/product/gmrs-pro-k1-adaptor/ref/gmrs/?campaign=OptionalAdapter
To get “More Range” out of this handheld, it’s all about the ***antenna quality.*** Consider a higher quality antenna, or even an external antenna.
https://baofengtech.com/product/nagoya-na-701g/ref/gmrs/?campaign=5.5inchAntenna
https://baofengtech.com/product/nagoya-na-771g/ref/gmrs/?campaign=15inchAntenna
https://baofengtech.com/product/nagoya-ut-72g/ref/gmrs/?campaign=mountedantenna
Other Great GMRS Antennas – Here
Midland MXTA26 Antenna – need an adapter, NMO mount and coax with this option. This antenna has the most GAIN.
Option 2: (Also a High Recommendation, but does take skill to install. Bluetooth)
Vero VGC VR-N7500 High Power 50W/40W Transceiver. This a PERMANENT MOUNT Bluetooth unit. It transmits at up to 40W on UHF (GMRS) frequencies. 5X the power of the above handheld.
Get the Bluetooth button for this radio – Here
This unit requires an EXTERNAL Antenna, like the Midland MXTA26 Antenna. I like this antenna for a permanent NMO Mount, (or a handheld radio with an Adapter).
An NMO Mount, and Coax are REQUIRED.
Kirk Olson – Central Route RC is running this set-up on his BMW K1600GT. The radio is Bluetoothed directly to a Sena 50S helmet set-up. The included mic shown in picture is not used.
(See a Picture of the set-up here)
** Currently, the VR-N7500 DOES NOT Bluetooth Connect to a Harley Branded Sena. It does connect to a regular, non-Harley Branded Sena. It must be something to do with the HD Firmware.
** There is a rumor that BTECH is coming out with their version of this radio in the very near future.
Option 3: (Non-Bluetooth GMRS Radios, work and are approx $50 or less)
Any GMRS Radio like, but not limited to, these:
TID Radio H8 GMRS Radio: https://amzn.to/47klXzu
https://amzn.to/3tJSpxw **Recommended (Value Pack)
Video on the TID Radio H8: https://youtu.be/8HXSlHT84yQ
Baofeng UV-5RTP: https://amzn.to/3tHoUMI
*These radios ARE NOT Bluetooth capable to a headset from the manufacturer, so would best be used with a wired set-up, and an earpiece or earbud (not ideal).
A company called Rugged Radios are the BEST wired harnesses for those that do not have or want a Bluetooth helmet set-up, and they also offer Bluetooth for any radio, and are built for motorcycling.
Wired & External Bluetooth harnesses options from Rugged Radios. These harnesses work with almost any GMRS handheld radio.
https://www.ruggedradios.com/collections/motorcycle-two-way-radio-helmet-communication-kits
Option 4:
If you are an Amateur Radio Operator (HAM), you may be interested in the Anytone ATD878UVII Plus. This is a HAM radio, and can be unlocked for GMRS use, and has Bluetooth built-in that will pair to a Bluetooth helmet set-up. This option does require very good to advanced computer skills to program the radio. The radio is also not IP67 (water proof), but the bluetooth piece is great.
Option 5:
Any Four-wheel vehicle can use a GMRS handheld or any Mobile Car/Truck Mounted GMRS radio.
Manufacturers of these are: Midland, Wouxun, to name a few.
These also require:
An EXTERNAL Antenna, like the Midland MXTA26 Antenna
An NMO Mount, and Coax are REQUIRED.
The bottom line is, we are not going to tell you which brand to get. You just need a radio to get GMRS frequencies into your helmet and your ears. The above are options that work well, and there are and will be others.
Licensing:
Lastly, listening to a GMRS radio does not require a license from the FCC.
Transmitting on a GMRS frequency currently does technically require a license from the FCC and is easy to get, and is $35 for 10-years.
One license can be used per family.
Video on How-to get a GMRS license:
https://youtu.be/xOuOIB1KCQ4?t=73
Click here to establish your FCC FRN Number: https://apps.fcc.gov/cores/userLogin.do
Click here for the FCC Universal Licensing System: https://www.fcc.gov/wireless/universal-licensing-system
Thank you.
See you in May 2025
Kirk Olson – Central Route Coordinator
Eric Fort – Midway Route Coordinator
Ken Ley – Southern Route Coordinator
William Brehler – Sandbox Route Coordinator
SGT Joseph Matejov was born on 2 February 1952, in Fort Sill, OK to Stephen and Mary Matejov. Joe was the 3rd of ten children born to Stephen and Mary and graduated from East Meadow High School, East Meadow, NY in 1970.
SGT Matejov enlisted in the U.S. Air Force on 14 July 1970, completing basic training at Lackland AFB, TX and Morse Code technical training at Keesler AFB, MS. After technical training, SGT Matejov was assigned to Misawa AB, Japan. On 12 April 1972, he was assigned to Det 3, 6994th Security Squadron, Ubon Royal Thai Air Force Base, Thailand.
Sgt. Joseph Matejov celebrated his 21st birthday in Southeast Asia three days before his EC-47Q reconnaissance plane was shot down over Laos.
On February 5, 1973, about a week after the signing of the Paris Peace Agreement, an EC-47Q aircraft, call sign “Baron 52”, was shot down over Saravane Province, Laos, about 50 miles east of the city of Saravane. The crew of the aircraft consisted of the pilot, Capt. George R. Spitz; co-pilot, 2Lt. Severo J. Primm III, Capt. Arthur R. Bollinger, 1Lt. Robert E. Bernhardt, Sgt. Dale Brandenburg, Sgt. Joseph A. Matejov, all listed as crew members, and Sgt. Peter R. Cressman and SSgt. Todd M. Melton, both systems operators. The families of all aboard the aircraft were told the men were dead and advised to conduct memorial services.
It is known that Cressman and Matejov were members of Detachment 3, 6994th Security Squadron from Ubon, Thailand. The aircraft, however, was flying out of the 361st TEW Squadron (Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron) at Nakhon Phanom Airbase, Thailand. Primm, Melton, Spitz, Brandenburg and Bernhardt were assigned to the 361st TEW Squadron. Bollinger’s unit is unknown.
The men in the 6994th were highly trained and operated in the greatest of secrecy. They were not allowed to mingle with others from their respective bases, nor were the pilots of the aircraft carrying them on their missions always told what their objective was. They were cryptology experts, language experts, and knew well how to operate some of the Air Force’s most sophisticated equipment. They were the first to hear the enemy’s battle plans.
In a letter written to his brother on February 2, 1973, (after the peace treaty was signed), Joe wrote: “I’m still flying in the C-47’s over here – 134 flights as of now. I’m shooting for 150, but I don’t know if I will reach that mark or not. So much for this war that’s still going on. Peace? My Ass. Can’t wait until they release all the POW’s too – I’ll be really happy to see that.” The letter continues. “Right now I only have 52 days left.”
Over five years later, Joe Matejov’s mother, Mary Matejov, heard columnist Jack Anderson, on “Good Morning America”, describe a Pathet Lao radio communique which described the capture of four “air pirates” on the same day as the EC-47Q carrying her son was shot down. NO OTHER PLANE WAS MISSING THAT DAY. Anderson’s information indicated that reconnaissance personnel had 40 uninterrupted minutes in which to survey the crash site.
The report of the reconnaissance team, which was not provided to the families for over five years, showed that three bodies, which were thought to have been higher ranking officers because of the seating arrangement, were found strapped in seats. Four of the men aboard the aircraft were not in or around the aircraft, and the partial remains of the eighth man (Bernhardt) was recovered. No identification was brought out from the crash site, and no attempt was made to recover the three bodies from the downed aircraft. It is assumed that the reconnaissance team was most interested in recovering the sensitive equipment aboard the EC-47Q. The EC-47Q became known as the “Flying Pueblo”. Most of the “kids” in back, as some pilots called them, were young, in good health, and stood every chance of surviving captivity.
There were specific reports intercepted regarding the four missing men from the aircraft missing on February 5, 1973. Radio reports indicated that the four were transported to the North Vietnam border. None were released in the general POW release beginning the next month.
Peter Cressman enlisted in the United States Air Force in August 1969 and after two years at Elmendorf AFB in Anchorage, Alaska he volunteered for service in Vietnam and left for Da Nang in June 1972.
In Da Nang, Peter spent his free hours at Sacred Heart Orphanage. His letters to his hometown priest in Oakland, New Jersey, resulted in the forming of “Operation Forget-Me-Not”. Community schools, churches, merchants and citizens joined the effort to help the innocent victims of war. The group eventually provided a boxcar of supplies to the orphans.
Peter was transferred to the airbase at Ubon, Thailand. He believed the secret missions being flown into Laos were illegal and had written letters to his congressman in that regard. His family has been active in efforts to locate information on Peter and the nearly 2500 others who remain unaccounted for. They founded the National Forget-Me-Not Association for POW/MIAs in St. Petersburg, Florida, the largest POW advocacy group in the country.
Joseph Matejov enlisted in the Air Force in 1970 from his home state of New York and went to Southeast Asia in April 1972. Joe’s father, Stephen, was a West Point Graduate and served in the Korean War. Stephen Matejov died in 1984 not knowing what happened to his son. Joe’s mother, Mary says, “Joe may be alive. If so, this government has a legal and moral responsibility to get him home. The next generation of servicemen should not have to wonder if they will answer the call to defend their country only to be abandoned. We must stop this tragedy now, and never allow it to happen again.”
Joe’s older siblings are Anne – civilian and Peace Corps and Stephen – retired Navy, disabled related to Agent Orange. His younger siblings are John – retired Marine; Kate – civilian – married to a Marine who passed away in 2019 due to Agent Orange related illness; Mary – civilian; Theresa – Army veteran, married to a West Point Graduate, has a son in the Navy waiting for a command on a nuclear submarine; Jim – civilian; Judy – married to a Marine for 29 years; and Mike – civilian.
Judy and Mike have both ridden with RFTW while John, Theresa, and her husband Terry, have all participated with RFTW at Riverside Cemetery and/or at the Southern Route stop in Front Royal, VA.
SGT Matejov’s awards and decorations include the Distinguished Flying Cross (Posthumously), Purple Heart (Posthumously), and the Air Medal (3rd OLC).
SGT Matejov is interred in a communal grave in section 34, site 4402, Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, VA. His name is engraved on the Vietnam Veteran Memorial Wall on Panel 1W, line 115.
The Matejov Community Center on Misawa AB, Japan was named in SGT Matejov’s memory.
Darin “Lurch” Koch
Welcome to the April newsletter; Yes, April!! We all know what that means; KSU from Ontario is less than 30 days away and for many of us, KSU from our homes is much less. Please remember to travel safely from wherever you may start your journey and STAY HYDRATED!
Why do you ride or participate in the RFTW Mission?
Our RFTW Mission is:
“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; This is why I RIDE!
Until they all come home, until they are all accounted for, we must continue to Live a Life worthy of their Sacrifice! Say Their Names, Tell Their Stories, and Never Forget!
The preparation for the RFTW 2024 Mission continues even now and I cannot thank our State Coordinators enough for all their hard work and time spent preparing for the Southern Route. I also appreciate all the calls made to inform SR Leadership of construction etc. along our route. We will overcome these construction areas and complete our mission regardless!
If you still have not registered, please do so as soon as possible. As of the writing of this newsletter, we have a total of 371 riders and participants registered for the Southern Route. You can still register HERE. ALL registration is conducted on-line via this website link so please register prior to your arrival to make things go smoothly and quickly! If you are joining the Southern Route anywhere other than Ontario, CA, please meet us the evening we arrive in the city you are joining us and check-in with registration that night. This gives the registration team the opportunity to get everyone checked-in, assigned to a platoon, and any prepaid gas options etc. taken care of. We have a mandatory riders meeting every morning (see our Itinerary here). Mandatory means exactly that; this meeting requires the attendance of ALL riders. If you wait until arriving in the morning, you will be unable to stage until you check-in with registration and are given your registration packet, wristband, mirror ribbon, and emergency medical form. You can find the emergency medical form HERE and come prepared with it already filled out! You will need to provide a valid drivers license, license plate number, and current proof of insurance at check-in. Registration will not accept copies of driver licenses; you must present your actual license with motorcycle endorsement (if applicable based on state licensing requirements). Please make things easier for check-in by having these items ready when you see the Registration Team. All participants must register and sign a liability release online.
I recommend printing a copy of the daily itinerary to bring with you or at the very least save an accessible version on your cell phone. Read it, then read it again! Read it or refer to it every morning, every night, and at every stop. Please refer to it before you ask questions where the answer is already in the Itinerary (do not ask, for example, when we are leaving? Or how long do we have at this stop?)! If you do have a question, find a member of your Platoon Leadership team, and start by asking them!
Preparation and Safety
Time is running out to get your bikes in tip top shape! Get them serviced, get them inspected, and make sure your state registration and insurance are all up to date and valid through the end of May 2024. If you haven’t already done so, pack up your bike with everything you are taking and get out on the highway or interstate on a test ride. Make sure you’re familiar with how your bike is going to handle with the added gear. Make sure you can safely control your bike, stop, start, and tight turns while loaded! Be sure that everything is safely secured and will not become a hazard to other riders.
As you prepare your bikes or other modes of transportation, you also need to prepare yourselves, mind, and body too! This is NOT a weekend ride. Be sure you have your Emergency Information Form filled out – completely! It will be checked daily by your Team Leaders and/or Platoon Leaders. It is MANDATORY and you cannot ride without it. If you take medication, be sure that you listed it on your EIF and that you have enough of your prescribed medications with you for your entire trip.
It’s time for everyone to start hydrating! It is much easier to hydrate than it is to re-hydrate! Generally, it is recommended to drink a liter of water a day to stay hydrated. However, this can depend on your age, body, underlying medical conditions, and what physical exercise you are doing on that day. Being extremely thirsty, dry mouth, fast breathing, fast heart rate, and low blood pressure are all significant signs of dehydration, however, what many of us will likely feel first is fatigue – both mentally and physically! Be aware and stay HYDRATED!
If you have been reading my monthly Newsletters, you may be thinking that the previous paragraphs look familiar. Well, that’s because they are! On RFTW we repeat many phrases and directions. WHY? Because they are important! You will continue to hear many of the same phrases and directions until we are safely in DC or Marseilles. Again, it’s not because we don’t think you aren’t listening. It’s about safety!
Arlington Escort
We are still working out the total number of Motorcycles and people we can send into Arlington and who will get to go. I know everyone is excited about this opportunity, but please be patient and wait until we have it sorted and announce the details.
Pre-Paid Fuel
Pre-Paid fuel has been established to assist our Fuel Team and riders alike. Pre-Paid Fuel allows our fuel stops to flow more quickly and efficiently allowing riders to get through the fuel line, staged, and off their bikes so they can make the most of the limited time we have available at our fuel stops. The pre-paid fuel option will be available at registration in Ontario at a cost of $150 and at each subsequent night stop. Beginning on Day 5, the cost will be prorated as follows:
Day 5 beginning in Grand Prairie – $100;
Day 6 beginning in Monroe – $80;
Day 7 beginning in Meridian – $60;
Day 8 beginning in Chattanooga – $40;
The pre-paid fuel option will not be available for those joining us on days 9 and 10. Those will be cash at the pump the same as any riders choosing not to pre-pay.
We encourage everyone to participate in Pre-Paid fuel. If you choose to take part in the Pre-Paid fuel option you will be given a wristband and sticker for your windshield (if you don’t have a windshield, see your Platoon Leader to determine the best location). The sticker should be placed at the center-bottom of the windshield. This allows our Fuel Team members to easily see the sticker from their usual location between bikes. The wristband acts as a secondary verification.
Riders must fill their motorcycles up each evening/morning on their own before arriving at Staging in the morning. Random spot checks will be occurring and may be done by your Staging Team or anyone on your Platoon Leadership Team.
NON-PRE-PAID Fuel will be required to pay cash at the pump to the fuel team (NO CHANGE GIVEN). Each stop will be a minimum of $10. A determination will be made in Ontario if that cost will increase to $15 at some stops based on current gas prices.
Please remember that any excess fuel funds go to provide the fuel for the Chase Trucks, Hydration Truck, and Medical Team vehicle. I do not know 1 rider who has not taken advantage of at least 1 of these support Teams daily; not to mention just the comfort they provide knowing they are there for you should you need them!
The Pre-Paid fuel option is $150.00. You can take advantage of the Pre-Paid fuel option early by using the Zelle payment app and sending $150.00 to Southern.Route@rftw.us If you use the Zelle app, please add “SR Pre-Paid Fuel 2024” in the Memo line. We will receive the notification of the payment and will have a list of those who have Pre-Paid at Registration in Ontario, CA.
You can pay Cash in Ontario, CA or
You can send a check to:
Run For The Wall Inc.
50 Fourth Ave #1445
Dayton, NV 89403
If you send a check you need to add a note about what Route you are on and what the check is for i.e. “Southern Route Pre-paid Fuel” and/or “Southern Route Luggage Fundraiser.” Also make sure you mail it with plenty of time to ARRIVE at it’s destination by MAY 1, 2024.
Pre-Run Ontario Schedule
The Pre-Run Ontario Sc
hedule is almost done. We will make sure to let you know when it is done, or you can go to the Southern Route Hub and check to see if it has been posted yet.
We do have a few things that are already set for Ontario listed below (Subject to change based on external Factors/Check the Ontario Schedule in the SR Hub once it is published).
The Merchandise and Hydration Trailers will be available at the Host Hotel, Ontario Holiday Inn located at 2155 E. Convention Center Way, Ontario, CA 91764.
Registration and Check-in will be available at the Elks Lodge, 1150 W. 4th Street, Ontario, CA 91762. The Elks Lodge opened their doors to us and has welcomed RFTW with open arms. The Elks Lodge will have many volunteers assisting inside the building and in the parking lot. Please thank them for their generosity and be respectful. Disrespect of any kind will not be tolerated.
The Elks Lodge will also have Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner available for purchase on Monday and Tuesday (Taco Tuesday?). A Steak Dinner is also planned again with advanced tickets available on site.
Hydration will also be available at the Elks Lodge.
This year we will have a Shuttle Bus running continuous loops between the Ontario Convention Center, the Holiday Inn Ontario Airport Host Hotel, and the Elks Lodge. The shuttle will run from noon-8 pm on Sunday, May 12th; and from 7 am through 9 pm on Monday, May 13th and Tuesday, May 14th.
Ride into Riverside National Cemetery in California
(Copied from the President’s Message). “As you may have seen in a FB post, Carol is working on the possibility of riders going to the March AFB museum following the ride the Riverside National Cemetery. This is a Tuesday event, with KSU tentatively scheduled for 0815 from the Elks Club. The Elks will be serving breakfast so our riders can stage, eat, and leave from the same location. Right now, the cost of entrance to the museum is $10, but Blaze is trying to get that lifted. If you are interested in going to the museum, please email Carol at carollolmstead@ymail.com so she can provide a head count. Rumor has it that the museum is planning to rope off a parking area for us.”
You must be registered and CHECKED IN to go on this ride, so get to Ontario and get Checked in on Monday the 13th.
Fundraising
The Southern Route is offering a fundraising opportunity that may benefit all riders’ safety! Our newest fundraiser is the Luggage Fundraiser. The SR will have a dedicated enclosed trailer to transport luggage. This will allow riders to remove bags normally strapped onto their bikes and have them securely transported for them from our morning starting location to our nightly dinner stop. This adds to the safety of all riders by removing bags that could obstruct other riders’ view of bikes in front of them; preventing a rider from focusing on a loose item on another bike around them; removes the added weight allowing for better control of your bike while riding in formation. Riders will be required to drop off their bag(s) at the morning staging/breakfast location. Bags will not be available until our final night/dinner stop. Riders will be restricted to 2 bags per bike. A check-in/check-out procedure will be followed ensuring no-one absconds with a bag that is not their own. The cost will be $7 per day or $50.00 for all 10 days. A prorated rate may be available depending on your starting location. Ask at check-in! If you wish to take advantage of this new fundraiser, you can also prepay by using the Zelle app and Southern.Route@rftw.us Please add “Luggage Fundraiser” to the memo section when submitting your payment.
If you plan to purchase the Pre-Paid Fuel and the Luggage Fundraiser all in one transaction; please enter both “SR Pre-Paid Fuel 2024” and “Luggage Fundraiser” on the memo line. If you are paying for more than one bike, please note that as well.
Another Southern Route fundraiser this year will be this patch. They will be sold beginning in Ontario and throughout the 10-day mission or until we run out. Each patch will be $5.00, and proceeds will be used to support our Veterans along the way.
After Action Reports
RFTW Leadership encourages ALL riders to complete an After Action Report (AAR) to get a better understanding of your experience on the Run and to make improvements to future Runs based on your suggestions. However, did you know that an After Action Report (AAR) can be done at any time? Thats right; an AAR can be done anytime even during the Run. If you have any kind of feedback or if there is a specific incident you observe or are a part of, you do not have to wait until the Run is completed and you’ve returned home. If you wait, you may forget certain details so please, if you feel the need, please submit an AAR at any time! Also, so you know, you can submit as many AAR’s as you feel are necessary!
Leave no one behind does not end on the battlefield!
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.
Darin “Lurch” Koch
RFTW Southern Route Coordinator 2024
Due to circumstances beyond our control, Midway Route Photos from previous runs are no longer available.
We apologize for this inconvenience.
We will post Midway Route Photos from 2025 here following this year’s run.
