Southern Route SitReps Archives - Run For The Wall®

Posted on June 24, 2026 by Randy "Stinger" Sheets

Midway Route Coordinator Newsletter – July 2026

My name is Randy Sheets, and my road name is “Stinger”.

I was honored to be your Midway Route 2026 Assistant Route Coordinator and even more honored to have been confirmed by the BoD as your 2027 Run For The Wall – Route Coordinator. I’m happy to announce that my nomination for your Midway Assistant Route Coordinator is Mark Brundage, road name “Ox” and your Midway Road Guard Captain is Ryan Long, road name “Pipes” were confirmed by the Board of Directors.

A bit about me, I’m an Air Force Veteran who served from 1976-1980. My career field was in Telecommunications. After basic training in San Antonio, I did my technical school at Keesler AFB in Biloxi, MS. After tech school, I was stationed at Carswell AFB in Ft Worth, TX. It was a SAC base at that time, and I always enjoyed watching the “Buffs” come and go as it meant freedom to me. In 1978, I was stationed in Okinawa at Kadena AFB until I was honorably discharged in May of 1980. After that, I turned my Air Force training into a career, first by working in the Cable TV field as a technician and eventually as the Technical Operations Manager with Comcast in Indianapolis for 17 years. I then took a Sr. Sales and Engineering position in the field of video transport over fiber optics until I retired in 2023.

With respect to the Run, my FNG year was in 2014, the year of the first Midway route. I rode in the pack in ‘14 & ’15 because, like a lot of our riders, I did not have enough vacation time to go “All the Way”. In 2016 I gained another weeks’ vacation and my wife at the time asked me what we are going to do with that extra week and I replied, “I don’t know about you, but I’m going to Ontario”. Once I recovered from the frying pan hitting me in the head I was able to go to Ontario.

2016 was my first year in Leadership. I was a Tail gunner with the trailer platoon. What an experience that was. From 2017 on, other than the covid years, I was a Road Guard. In 2024 & 2025 I had to tap out due to a hip replacement in April of ’24 and another medical issue grounded me in ’25. I thought ’26 might be in jeopardy as I needed a redo of the previous hip replacement which I had done just 6 weeks before KSU in Ontario. I was determined to ride, but hadn’t really ridden in 3 years as I was in some state of recovery from surgeries. I must agree that it is true that if you don’t practice your skills by riding you lose them and this showed for sure during the Run, so the moral of that is, besides hydrate, hydrate, hydrate, you need to practice, practice, practice!

You know that the Run, besides all the fun, camaraderie, seeing familiar faces, renewing friendships and meeting new folks, the Run, or as I like to say, the mission is to promote healing and demand a full accounting for our lost men and women who have not yet come home.

FNG’s – Friendly New Guys / Gals

Our FNG’s are the one thing that makes RFTW so meaningful. Everyone is welcome to ride with us as having served is not a requirement. If you go all the way or just a day or two you will find a caring and open atmosphere so, please keep coming back and tell all of your friends and family about RFTW and invite them to join us.

The 2027 route KSU is May 19th at 07:00 from Ontario, CA. Registration will open on September 11, 2026, and the hotel list comes out in early January. The Midway Itinerary will be developed by our State Coordinators and released in early ’27. Updates to follow on these important dates. If you are interested in filling a Leadership position then go to the link and fill out the request form. Volunteer Sign-Up – Run For The Wall®

As we celebrate America’s 250^th birthday this month and as we move forward, we must all remember that “Freedom isn’t free”, it was earned and is maintained with the blood, sweat and tears of our soldiers, sailors airmen, marines and patriots who have made America what she is today, a bastion of freedom and the envy of the world.

In closing, 2027 is going to be a remarkable year for the Run. We will continue the mission to promote healing among all veterans, their family and friends, to call for an accounting of all POW’s and those still missing in action, to honor the memory of those KIA from all wars and to support our military personnel all over the world.

Say their names.

Never forget.

This is why we ride.

Randy “Stinger” Sheets
Midway Route Coordinator 2027

Posted on June 24, 2026 by Todd "Horton" Taylor

Central Route Coordinator – Introduction

Greetings fellow Central Route Riders.

My name is Todd “Horton” Taylor, and I am honored to have been confirmed by the Board of Directors to be your 2027 Central Route Coordinator.

First off, I want to thank last year’s Route Coordinator, Jim “Who?” McDonough for his leadership and guidance. Secondly, I would not be able to take on this monumental task without a strong leadership team. With that being said, I would like to introduce your 2027 Central Route Assistant Route Coordinator, Ted “Boots” Kapner. Our focus is to make 2027 a safe and memorable year.

Stay tuned for my July newsletter as it will have information concerning our upcoming Angel Fire Reunion!

Todd “Horton” Taylor
RFTW 2027 Central Route Coordinator
West Virginia State Coordinator

Posted on June 10, 2026 by Jim McDonough

June 2026 Central Route Coordinator Newsletter

I hope everyone made it home safely and enjoys the rest of your summer. This will be my last newsletter as RC. It has been an honor and privilege to take you across our great Nation and meet great people along the way.

For the last year, many people have worked tirelessly behind the scenes in making the RFTW XXXVI a success and I could not have done this without those people and those that mentored me along the way.

Thank you everyone, especially the past RC’s, for your support and help when I needed it most.

This year’s Run was a little different than those in the past. For the first time in since 2022, all three coast to coast routes left on the same day. We helped celebrate the 100^th anniversary of Route 66. The Central and Southern Route joining together on the last day as we rode in together as one group, as one family into the National Capitol area. We laid a brick in honor of a past RFTW Rider at Angel Fire. The Central Route had a couple of special guests and even though the weather was a little soggy towards the end, we were able to get through it safely and without any major incidents.

To the Platoon leadership. Thank you all for instilling the Run for the Wall spirit into your FNG’s and teaching them the Run for the Wall traditions and way of riding. For some riders, it was not an easy transition, but almost all stuck through it to the end. This is in no small part due to your Platoon leadership and skill. This Ride could not have been done without the orange hats!

To the Road Guards, who are an outstanding group of individuals, you kept our Run safe and moved us along efficiently. The Run would not be what it is today, without you and the leadership of your Road Guard Captain, Boots. Thank you!

To out Missing Man Coordinator, Bones did fantastic job and he has reminded us as to why we do this Run.

To the Outreach and Ambassadors, thank you for spreading the word to the General Public about the Run and meeting with Gold Star families, schools, the people on the roadsides and overpasses before we rode by. Thank you Professor, Cow Pie and Old Girl!

To the Leadership support group, which kept the plaques and certificates flowing, paying for the gas, and helping generate financial support for our donors. This Run would not be successful without you.

To our FNG coordinator, Platoon Coordinator, and registration team, thank you for answering people’s questions and sorting out all the personnel issues involved in such a large group.

To our hydration team and merchandise team. Despite your mechanical and logistical issues along the Run, you always made it work and were able to provide the services we needed at our stops.

To the Chase vehicles, for without them, many of you Riders would not have been able to make it across the country.

To our State Coordinators. As I have said many times, these people are the reasons we have the public donations support, from food, gas, people, donors, and tolls. They are the reason why your fuel sticker was low as why you gained weight during the Run.

To our fuelers and stagers, the run would not start or end without you. You provided much-needed support and tactical weather reports of what was ahead to the main pack. Thank you!

To our Chaplains, you provided our Riders the spiritual guidance and support throughout the Run, even though some Riders did not think they needed it. Your prayers helped us all and you are all truly a blessing for the Run.

To the Medical Team and Risk Manager. I did not hear much from you guys, so no news is good news. Hopefully it was a mostly uneventful ride for you all. Thank you!

Finally, to the Riders. The Run would not be the Run without the Riders. We met as strangers in Ontario coming from various parts of the country with different ways of doing things. After 10 days across the country, we became friends and part of the RFTW family. Your patience and persistence paid off as we sat on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial and laid the Mission complete plaque at the apex of the Vietnam Wall.

This ride probably tested most resulting in some making changes to their rain gear and riding styles. I am sure that for all “former” FNG’s, this ride impressed you in ways that words would never describe, and I hope you all decide to continue the RFTW mission and promote the Run.

Some of you will get the “fever” and decide to return, some may also volunteer for some added responsibility to support the Run. Some of you may not and that is OK. But all of you will have lifelong memories of the Run and can proudly say, “I went all the Way!” on the largest organize cross country motorcycle ride!

I would like to mention a few people who have expressed to me that they are stepping back, and volunteers are needed to help fill their shoes on the Run.

One is Tommy Cranford, our Last Man Vehicle. The Last Man Vehicle holds an especially important job during the Run of coordinating the chase vehicles to respond to those on the side of the road as well as reporting to the RC and others as well as the conditions of the pack during the Run. Some of the other things he does outside of the Run, separate of being the Last Man Vehicle, is maintaining the Central Route inventory gear before and after the Run. Tommy sustained an injury during the Run and is currently going through the healing process. He indicated to me that 2026 would be his last Run, so if anyone is interested in one or both these important jobs, please let the Central leadership know.

Thank you, Tommy, for the outstanding work you have done!

The other is the State Coordinator position for New Mexico. Patty Finley has articulated to me several times that she can no longer do the job. The Central Route spends three days in New Mexico and Patty has been responsible for coordinating the activities in the State of New Mexico. Much of our donated fuel, food, and activities are due, in no small part, to the tireless work Patty has done. If you live in New Mexico and can help in anyway, please let the Central Leadership know.

Thank you, Patty, for the outstanding work you have done!

David Parkhill our Illinois State Coordinator, is also stepping back from the job. Chris Braden has been selected as his replacement. Thank you, David, for the great job you have done as Illinois State Coordinator and a hearty welcome to Chris. Dave, we hope to see you at the Mt. Vernon lunch stop in the future.

During your ten days on the run, there are those that made a great impression on you during this Run. Try and maintain those relationships. Time is fleeting and as the Rolling Stones once said, “Time waits for no one and it won’t wait for me… Hours are like diamonds, don’t let them waste… Drink in your summer, gather your corn. The dreams of the nighttime will vanish by dawn.”

Talk about the Run with your friends and acquaintances. There may be some myths or misconceptions about what the Run is all about. Tell them about your experiences as you put a face to the Run.

The Run has changed dramatically over the years and continues to evolve as we strive to meet all the commitments and expectations from the public, donors and our riders. The Run is not perfect but each year we try to make it better much due in part to the comments provided by the Riders.

After Action Report – Run For The Wall®

It is your opportunity as a participant in RFTW to provide feedback about your experience on the Run, both good and bad. All AAR’s are taken seriously and read by the Board and Route leadership. AAR’s in the past have resulted in changes in operating procedures. So, your feedback matters.

The link to the form is here.

If you are up to the challenge, the Run needs volunteers to help in 2027. Fill out a volunteer form if you are interested in contributing. The hours may be long and the pay not so good, but the rewards are great!

The volunteer link is here. Volunteer Sign-Up – Run For The Wall®

It is bittersweet that I must relinquish this job and thank you all once again for your trust in allowing me to lead you across our great country. I have been humbled by all the support you have given me and will always remember the experiences you all have provided. Please show the same level of support to the next RC!

As always, please remember our Mission Statement:

Mission Statement

To promote healing among all veterans and their family and friends

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

Honor the memory of those Killed in Action (KIA)

Support our military people all over the world.

Is it May yet?

Jim “Who?” McDonough
XXXVI Central Route Coordinator

Posted on June 6, 2026 by Ed "Wind Dog" Brundage

Midway Route Coordinator Newsletter – June 2026

I arrived home in southern California 5 days ago and it seems like yesterday.

Welcome home to all and “Happy Father’s Day”. Can you believe how fast time is just flying by.

This year’s run leaves me with so many fond memories. Some of profound joy of seeing old friends and meeting new ones and some of Immense sadness of loss and maybe the realization that time stands still for no one. But before I expound on these feelings and more let me express my profound gratitude to your 2026 Leadership team. The leaders and their respective teams worked tirelessly since the end of 2025 to ensure your experience in 2026 would be enlightening, memorable and healing for many. These volunteers were State Coordinators, Road Guards, Missing Man Coordinator, Platoon Coordinator, Platoon Leaders, Asst Platoon Leaders, Tail Gunners, Financial services, Risk Management, Photographer, Sit rep writers, Hotel/Camping Coordinator, RC assistants and the many individuals from our local communities that welcomed us and fed us all across this country.

I would be remiss if I did not single out some individuals who went above and beyond in supporting me and giving me the ability to make this year’s run meaningful, fun, healing and hopefully a memory you will cherish and share with your children and grandchildren in the future.

Jerry Wilkins was not only my mentor this year, he was also the Midway routes California state coordinator, hotel coordinator, camping coordinator, Advance team Road Guard and Registration Team Lead. Thank you, Jerry for keeping me “On Track” and providing sage guidance daily. You were always there for me and the Midway family.

Michelle DeLa Cruz became my guiding light starting on day one. She always was ready to help with anything I needed assistance with including being the platoon leader for the leadership support platoon. “Thank you, Michelle”.

“Java Joe” Bookataub developed all Platoon Leaders, Assistant Platoon Leaders and Tail Gunners for this years run. He told me that sometimes it was like herding cats. All the Platoon participant’s succeeded in becoming more proficient daily at pack riding. Whether you were in Platoon leadership or a rider or an FNG, it became apparent that you were becoming a team as we got closer to Springfield.

Well Done to all!!!

Collectively, I hope the leadership teams made 2026 memorable and reinforced the true purpose and focus of just what in life is worth fighting for. We hope that you always remember that life is truly about “The Mission”!

After Action Reports

Please remember that we are always trying to make next years’ experience better and that is why the After-Action Reports (AAR’S) are very important. I have received many already and I want to assure you that they are read by not only me but by the Board of Directors. I have already made a list of items from your submissions to be discussed at our next directors’ meeting. You can find AAR’S on the Midway page, second from the bottom on the scroll down menu. Please take this opportunity to tell me how we did this year. The Good, the bad and the ugly.

We cannot as a family make it better if we do not have an honest evaluation of our process and procedure.

To truly make a better product we collectively must analyze, design, develop, implement and evaluate continuously. Please use the After Action Report (AAR) as your personal vehicle to assist the RFTW leadership accomplish this mission.

Red Star Foundation

It saddens me to hear that our continued armed conflicts are afflicting our warriors with same guilt as I suffered and is potentially causing us to lose them at a rate of 20 -22 a day. We have developed a partnership with the Red Star foundation whose primary purpose is to never allow this nation to forget the cost of armed conflict and those who chose to offer that sacrifice.
If our combined efforts can save even a few, it was well worth the time, effort and money.

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

It was my honor to lead the Midway route across this great country this year. I look forward to seeing you all next year as your route Mentor.

“IS IT MAY YET”

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

Posted on May 1, 2026May 1, 2026 by Jim McDonough

May 2026 Central Route Coordinator Newsletter

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

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

As always, please remember our Mission Statement:

Mission Statement

To promote healing among all veterans and their family and friends

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

Honor the memory of those Killed in Action (KIA)

Support our military people all over the world.

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

Don’t forget about the these very important events:

Sunday, May 10^th Mother’s Day.

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

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

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

Ontario Registration and Check In

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Volunteers

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

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

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

Donations

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

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

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

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

Fuel

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

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

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

Purchase of the Fuel Sticker is mandatory.

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

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

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

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

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

Kansas Turnpike

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

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

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

Morning Meetings

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

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

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

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

Morning meetings are mandatory.

Springfield, VA and Washington, D.C.

Friday May 22 Springfield Arrival

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

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

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

Saturday, May 23

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

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

Parking in D.C.

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

Arlington National Cemetery and the Tomb of the Unknown

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

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

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

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

DoD Common Access Card

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

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

U.S. or Foreign Passport or Passport Cards

Transportation Worker Identification Cards

Veteran’s Health Identification Cards

Federal Personal Identify Verification Cards

Non-Federal PIV-Interoperable Cards

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

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

No Weapons of any kinds including knives!

Do not bring your GMRS radio!

Rolling to Remember

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

AAR’s

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

REMEMBER TO HYDRATE!

CHECK YOUR GEAR!

PLAN FOR RIDING IN COLD, WET OR HOT WEATHER!

GET YOUR SERVICE DONE!

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

How far are we going?

See you all in Ontario!

Jim “Who?” McDonough
XXXVI Central Route Coordinator

Posted on April 30, 2026 by Ed "Wind Dog" Brundage

Midway Route Coordinator Newsletter – May 2026

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

We are now just 13 Days from KSU. Your leadership teams are putting the final touches on your Midway adventure.

At the risk of repeating myself, I must remind all of us about where our focus should be. What do we truly need to pack for our 10-day adventure. Just the essentials because there is not a lot of room on the bike for anything else. And always remember, there are stores everywhere. It has always helped me to prepare a checklist of necessary items: Prescriptions, toiletries, changes of clothes, undergarments, extra glasses, long-sleeved shirts, socks, warm clothing for those cold mornings, extra gloves for those cold mornings, etc. The more you pack, the more weight you carry.

Pre-Paid Fuel

The pre-paid fuel option is now closed. You can only pay cash at check-in at Ontario. There are no credit card options. At registration your payment will be verified or cash accepted, and you will be issued a fuel sticker. This will go on your windshield, on the clutch side just below your platoon number. For individuals with windshield banners, clutch side, beside your banner. Please remember, even with prepaid fuel you need to come to Staging each morning with a full tank of gas.

Route Itineraries

Itineraries have now been published and are available on the Midway website. You can either print out a copy or use the QR code and download it to your phone or mobile device. This will provide you with a minute by minute, Day by day glimpse of exactly what you will be involved in. Additionally, I know many of you have friends that wish to meet you or stand on an overpass and recognize your personal adventure. The itinerary provides exact locations for you and your friends. Lastly, it also provides emergency Medical and Chase vehicle phone numbers to assist you with any issues you may face along the route.

Ontario and Springfield Schedule of events

A copy of both the Ontario and Springfield schedule of events are available on the RFTW website – Midway page on the menus on the left-hand side of the page. In addition, each of your team/Platoon leaders has been given a copy of the Ontario schedule of events. Please ensure you are where you need to be to attend your meetings to meet your fellow riders and have the most current information. Additionally, there is also a schedule of events happening at the Elks lodge including meals.

A shuttle schedule has also been published between the host hotel and the Elks lodge in Ontario, if you wish to use it.

Registration

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

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

Please register now. Our registration team needs to have you on their computers, so we know if you have made it to Ontario.

End of Mission at the Wall

The RFTW picture at the Lincoln Memorial will be on 23 May at 0900. You need to be there early to find a good location for the photo. Parking will be strictly enforced this so please park your bike only in designated areas or uber or cab to the photo. Immediately afterwards we will walk to the Vietnam Memorial and have the “End of Mission” ceremony” where all four route coordinators will lay the RFTW Mission plaque at the apex of the wall. This will occur at 0930 so you need to make your way to the wall with a purpose.

Arlington National Cemetery and the Tomb of the Unknown

Midway has been assigned 20 motorcycles with 39 seats available to ride to the “Tomb of the Unknown soldier” and observe a laying of a wreath on behalf of all the riders from RFTW. This is truly an honor. The only motorcycles allowed on Arlington National Cemetery grounds are those from RFTW. FNG’s only will be allowed this year!

Friendly reminder for ANC riders

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

Please contact your platoon leader or FNG Coordinator for additional details

Rolling to Remember

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

Always remember our primary reason for riding is our Mission:

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

Donations

If you are working with any organizations that are contributing to the Midway route for 2026, please remind them that there are very few days left to process the donation and to be useful in support of this year’s adventure.

Pack and repack your bike. (You do not need as much as you may think). Walk, run, stretch, exercise!

Ride your bike, if possible. Hydrate! Hydrate! Hydrate!

Do NOT procrastinate. Do it today!!!

Lastly, please remember that we respect all riders and their opinions. NO ATTITUDES!

Remember that we are on a Mission that requires all of us to work together and help each other to be successful. Set your own wants and needs aside and reflect on the hardships and commitment of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice to keep our country free.

We strive to maintain a safe, supportive and private atmosphere in which all participants can reflect and heal on their journey to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington D.C. in the hope that they can return home to a new beginning.

Freedom Isn’t Free.

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

See you in Ontario. Be safe in your travels. Maybe practice Throttle control instead of using your brakes. Just saying!!!!

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

Posted on April 15, 2026April 15, 2026 by Ben Noyce

Midway’s Mid-Month Roundup – April 2026

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

As always

Ride Safe

Rids Smart

And keep the shiny side up!

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

Less than 30 days away….

Ben ‘Stitch’ Noyce

Posted on April 1, 2026 by Jim McDonough

April 2026 Central Route Coordinator Newsletter

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

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

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

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

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

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

Registration and Check In

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

Go the Central Route Hub for more information.

Rolling to Remember

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

Arlington National Cemetery and the Tomb of the Unknown

Volunteers

Staging still needs volunteers!

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

Donations

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

Update

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

To reiterate items from last month.

Pre-Paid Fuel

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

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

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

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

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

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

The RFTW Treasurer Official mailing address is:

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

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

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

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

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

Kansas Turnpike

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

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

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

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

Morning Meetings

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

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

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

Again, this morning meeting is mandatory.

Parking in D.C.

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

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

GMRS Radios Links

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

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

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

Get your body ready and start getting in the habit of HYDRATING!

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

Tolle moras. Semper nocuit differre paratis

(Avoid delays: procrastination always does harm)

Get ready for RFTW XXXVI!

Mission Statement

To promote healing among all veterans and their family and friends

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

Honor the memory of those Killed in Action (KIA)

Support our military people all over the world.

Is it May yet?

Jim “Who?” McDonough
XXXVI Central Route Coordinator

Posted on March 31, 2026 by Ed "Wind Dog" Brundage

Midway Route Coordinator Newsletter – April 2026 – Corrections!

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

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

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

Thank you all for keeping me honest.

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

Posted on March 30, 2026March 31, 2026 by Ed "Wind Dog" Brundage

Midway Route Coordinator Newsletter – April 2026

May is just around the corner. We are now just 43 Days from KSU.

We need to start considering our preparations for getting to Ontario and “On our Mission”.

What do we really need to pack for our 10-day adventure. Just the essentials because there is not a lot of room on the bike for anything else. And always remember, there are stores everywhere. It has always helped me to prepare a checklist of necessary items: Prescriptions, toiletries, changes of clothes, undergarments, extra glasses, long-sleeved shirts, socks, warm clothing for those cold mornings, extra gloves for those cold mornings, rain gear etc. If you have a rider, this also cuts your available space in half. I would start to practice packing now.

Is your bike ready? Has a qualified mechanic looked over it and told you it will make the total miles we will be traveling from your front door and back. Have you considered a couple of bottles of fuel additive in case we run into stations that do not carry 91 Octane? “Food for thought”!