Category: Southern Route SitReps

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Midway Route Coordinator Newsletter – September 2025

Run for the Wall®

253 Days to KSU!

As we celebrate Labor Day and the official end of summer, we need to start thinking of things we need to accomplish between now and next May to be prepared for our Midway adventure.

FNG’s and Returning riders

Welcome to the Midway family! Let’s do a quick review of what our RFTW Organization is all about.

You do not need to be a veteran to ride, everyone is welcome! The ages of the participants range from eight to eighty. These include mothers, fathers, grandfathers, and grandmothers! Among the ridership you will find veterans, active-duty military, patriots, supporters, friends, and family.

“Is It May Yet”?

The Run occurs every May with the three coast to coast routes beginning around the middle of the month and culminating on the Friday of Memorial Day weekend. The fourth route “Sandbox”, begins on Sunday of the Memorial Day weekend. You will often hear members of the RFTW family lament, “Is it May yet?” because we are excited about this great ride and experience that we are preparing for you and wish it were May already.

Coast to Coast
Ontario, California to Washington, D.C.

Midway Route: May 13 – May 23 (10 days)
Central Route: May 13 – May 23 (10 days)
Southern Route: May 13 – May 23 (10 days)

Wall to Wall
Washington, D.C. to Marseilles, Illinois

Sandbox Route: May 25 – May 27 (3 days)

We Ride For Those Who Can’t

Run For The Wall began in 1989 as an effort by a couple of Vietnam Veterans who traveled across the heartland of America on motorcycles, talking to local radio, television, and newspapers about the fact that we had thousands of men and women still unaccounted for from all our wars.

The need for this awareness continues, so RFTW riders maintain this tradition every May by riding their motorcycles from “coast to coast”, and since 2022 from “wall to wall”. RFTW does not give political speeches or stage demonstrations. Run For The Wall emphasizes its message by traveling through the United States in a safe and orderly manner, obeying traffic laws and treating all citizens with respect. Our motto is, “We Ride For Those Who Can’t”.

Raising public awareness is only part of the Mission of Run For The Wall. RFTW also gives veterans (from Vietnam and all wars and conflicts) the opportunity to receive the Welcome Home they so richly deserve, and an encouraging environment where they can further their healing process.

Many who have served our country, especially in combat, return with issues that may be unresolved. This can also extend to friends and families who have experienced the range of emotion and trauma associated with having a loved one go off to serve. RFTW riders find healing and camaraderie in the Run For The Wall family. They can finally start settling issues that have been put away for years.

Together We Ride

Run For The Wall is a motorcycle ride like none other. It is definitely not a party, but rather a mission of honor and an odyssey of patriotism and respect through the heart of the United States of America. On the Run we ride side by side (and in some cases staggered) in parade formation all the way. Each Route is led by a Route Coordinator and an Assistant Route Coordinator. At the head of the pack is the Missing Man formation.

 

The Missing Man Formation
The Missing Man Formation is a rolling salute to honor the memory of the fallen, KIA, MIA, or POW. Five bikes ride in formation with a space where one bike should be, symbolizing the person’s absence. On each leg of each route we honor a different individual in the Missing Man Formation. There is a short ceremony just prior to the departure of the pack and we SAY THEIR NAMES so that their service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

You will also notice that the riders participating in the Missing Man Formation do not wave at onlookers while riding in formation. Their ride is solemn and sincere – a rolling salute. This is the highest form of honor and respect, and serves as a stark reminder of those who sacrificed their future for that of our nation. May their memories always be a blessing and may we never forget that freedom is not free.

The main pack of motorcycles is divided into platoons. Each platoon is headed by a Platoon Leader and an Assistant Platoon Leader as well as one or two Tail Gunners to help pace the group.

While most of the vehicles are conventional two-wheeled motorcycles (of all makes and models), there is also a healthy contingent of trikes and three-wheel vehicles such as Can-Am Spyders – and even a few motorcycles and trikes who tow trailers. That said, we do allow 4-wheel vehicles to register and drive the route of their choice, with the proviso that 4-wheelers drive 15 minutes (give or take) ahead of the pack and not interfere with the parking or staging of the pack at any of the stops. (Alternatively, 4-wheel vehicles may drive behind the pack, behind the last man vehicle and any chase trucks/trailers, but we prefer that you drive out ahead….) Four-wheel vehicle participants will still be able to take part in all the RFTW activities, but you must remain safely out of the way of the motorcycle pack. Please consider that some fuel stops and/or lunch stops are quite compressed and room to maneuver any 4-wheel vehicle around the 300-400 motorcycles staged in tight quarters could be challenging. (Polaris Slingshot – Our Official Policy on Polaris Slingshot’s is that these vehicles are the size of and essentially a “small car” and will follow the aforementioned protocol of other 4-wheel vehicles.)

Registration

Registration for the 2026 Run For The Wall will open on September 11th, 2025 @ 8:46 a.m. (EST), 7:46 a.m. (Central), 6:46 a.m. (MST), 5:46 a.m. (PST)

Please put this on your calendar, make a cup of coffee and be ready when registration opens. We really need your support on this to gather data necessary for additional planning. Thank you, in advance for your support.

I challenge each of you to be the first one to get registered. I will identify who that is in the next Monthly newsletter and I will come up with a recognition of your dedication to the Midway route. Remember “First come, first served”.

Gulf War Veterans

The Midway 2026 family will be recognizing all Gulf War veterans on the 35th Anniversary of Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm this coming year. This was the first war that America and her allies had won decisively Since World War II. More to follow on planned events

Pre-Paid Fuel                                                          

We will be offering a pre-paid fuel option again in 2026. My leadership team and I are researching costs. We hope to maintain the same cost as 2025. Taking advantage of this offer is extremely important so our road guards and fuel team traffic control personnel can get you quickly off the road, into the pumps and to the staging location as safely and efficiently as possible where you can get off your vehicle, get hydrated and use the facilities. If you are fumbling in your wallet for money to pay your fuel cost, it lengthens the time for each vehicle at the pump.

Just as a “Heads up”, I may make pre-paid fuel mandatory for 2026 for just the reasons I discussed above.

Opportunities

Are you interested in further supporting Midway Route this year? Do you like being a part of the planning process? Then I have a great opportunity for you. Our Arkansas State Coordinator is in need of an Assistant State Coordinator. Our Coordinator does a phenomenal job in laying the ground work for a safe and enjoyable travel through Arkansas and is in need of some help covering all the bases. If you live in Arkansas and are interested or have questions please reach out to me via email at ed.brundage@rftw.us. We would love to have you join us as a member of our leadership team!!

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

I also currently need a driver for the Midway Merchandise trailer.
Your lodging and fuel costs will be paid for while you are towing our merchandise trailer in support of the Midway route. Again, please contact me at ed.brundage@rftw.us if you would be interested in supporting the Midway route. – – – Thank you, in Advance!

Lastly, please spread the word about Run for the Wall and the Midway route. Invite a friend to ride along. Convince a fellow veteran to ride with you to acquire the healing this adventure provides to many veterans who are struggling with their service.

There are Posters, general information flyers, tri-fold flyers and even some talking points to provide you assistance when discussing the miracle that is Run for the Wall.

You will find them on the RFTW website under “MEDIA” as a drop-down menu. Just click on what you would like and hand them out.

This ride is about the Mission, the Mission, the Mission!!

RFTW Mission Statement

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

Please join our mission, get personally involved, pass the word and always remember the ones who went before us and some who made the ultimate sacrifice.

“Say their names”  “Never Forget”  “Tell their stories”

“Is it May yet”

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

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August 2025 Central Route Coordinator Newsletter

August is now upon us and planning and preparations for the 2026 Run are underway. The inventory of our route equipment has been completed and a huge “Thank you” goes out to Tommy “Two Chains” Cranford for taking care of this mundane but necessary task.

The annual face to face meeting was held between the Route Coordinators and the rest of the Board of Directors. Be sure to read the President’s Message, which highlights some of the changes that were made to our operating procedures that affect the Central Route.

The Angel Fire Reunion will be held August 29-31, 2025. My message early in July described the work party and registration for this event can be found below.  If you plan on attending, please register sooner than later.

Angel Fire Registration Link

ARC, Todd “Horton” Taylor, Road Guard Captain, Ted “Boots” Kapner and I are putting together our Central Route Team for 2026 and volunteer forms have been slowly coming in for the Run.  As they come in, they will be forwarded to the appropriate team leaders.   If you are interested in a position on the Central Route, don’t be shy and please fill out a volunteer form. This ride takes a lot of people to be successful and anything you can do to help the Run will be much appreciated.

Platoon Leaders are still being vetted and when selected, we be working with the Platoon Coordinator for the selection of Assistant Platoon Leaders and Tail Gunners.  Road Guards, Staging, Fuel, Ambassadors, Outreach, and Chaplain volunteers will be selected by those team leads, with RC approval.

Don’t be discouraged if a team is full as things always change between now and May.

There are many unfilled openings, specifically Platoon Coordinator, Raffle Rouser, 50/50 Rouser, as well as a Videographer.  If you’re interested in any position on the Central Route fill out the volunteer form or give me a call.

Registration for the 36th Annual Run for the Wall opens on September 11, 2025.  Registration fee for the Run will be $100 until January 31, 2026 and then $120 after that.  Insurance is a large factor for the increase in the registration fee.

The focus for the RFTW XXXVI will be commemorating the 35th Anniversary of the End of the Gulf War.

Enjoy the rest of the summer. Be safe out there and remember to hydrate!

See you at Angel Fire, New Mexico in a couple of weeks!

 

“…Bring ’em on home from ‘Nam

They’ve been a long time gone but still not forgotten

We’ll man this watch until they’re accounted for…”

From the song, “Bring ’em on Home from ‘Nam” by Reggie Gates & Tim Nowland

 

Remember their Names. Honor Them All.

Jim “Who?” McDonough
XXXVI Central Route Coordinator

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Midway Route Coordinator Newsletter – August 2025

Run for the Wall®

286 Days to KSU!

I hope each of you are enjoying Summer and getting some good riding in. The weather gods seem to be generous with the sunshine and limiting the bad weather this year.

The Board of Directors have approved my recommendations for your Assistant Route Coordinator (ARC) and Road Guard Captain (RGC) for 2026. They are Randy Sheets, road name “Stinger” as ARC and Ryan Long, road name “Pipes” as RGC. Congratulations to both and I look forward to working diligently with this leadership team in developing and providing you the best Midway route experience in 2026. Please welcome these gentlemen to the Midway leadership team.

NEW NEWS

I have just returned from the annual F2F (face to face) Board of Directors meeting, and I learned quite a lot. There have been some changes to the SOP mostly driven by the increased requirements and cost of the RFTW Insurance policy company. They can be very restrictive and intrusive. Insurance costs have increased by over 50% in the last two years and have required the Board of Directors to develop additional safety protocols and internal procedures before they approve liability Insurance for the RFTW. For all you business owners, you are probably dealing with more restrictive insurance requirements also, so you know. There is really nothing you can do when the law says you are required to have insurance, right!

With this increased insurance cost in mind, a registration fee increase was voted on and approved by ALL members, me included, to cover some of the lost revenue due to the additional insurance cost.

Effective for 2026 all routes registration costs will be:

  • $100.00 early bird, Sept 11, 2025 – Jan 31,2026 (Please register early)
  • $120.00 starting Feb 1,2026
  • $100.00 Day riders for up to three days

Additionally, the problems of getting double support from Law enforcement, vendors, hotels and our great VFW in Ontario because Midway left a day earlier than the other routes was discussed. The insurance company was also asking why we needed an additional day of coverage just for one route at an additional cost. We first discussed the benefit of all three routes extending to an 11th day which the other routes did not agree with. This brought up the discussion of reducing Midway to a 10-day route. After much thought, I concluded that we needed to reduce Midway to a 10-day route with the understanding that we would not give up our second day in Cookeville. I remembered back to my FNG year and the excitement of sitting in Lot D with 1200 motorcycles roaring, riders talking excitedly about what was to come getting ready to leave on our individual route missions. The camaraderie of everyone who understood we were ALL supporting a great cause and mission supporting our veteran community and excited to see if all the patriotic stories of veteran riders were true. It was exhilarating and I would like our FNGs and returning riders to feel that excitement. Additionally, this will satisfy our additional insurance requirements.

With that said, I have asked the ARC to develop a working group to combine both day 10 and 11 from last year’s itinerary into one day. This probably means that Midway will not arrive in Springfield VA in the morning but in the mid-afternoon of Day 10. More to follow on the working group’s product.

Your state coordinators are beginning the process of contacting all daily stops within their respective states to ensure a seamless experience for you in 2026. These state coordinators are some of the unsung Patriots who quietly provide a lot of time in developing new experiences parades, museums, veteran homes, great lunches and dinners, etc. for you that support the mission of RFTW. They receive limited recognition for these efforts and carry out this crucial work to ensure the success of the Midway route. Their pay is a “Thank You”, so please give them that when you meet one.

All other Leadership is also starting the process of developing their teams and starting their training for a successful 2026.

Speaking of Leadership, I have some key positions that are open and need dedicated professional individuals who are willing to provide some of their time in the development of a team that supports the mission and the Midway family.

They are currently:

Promotions Team Leader, Registration team members, Chaplains, Medics, Chase vehicle drivers (requires a pickup with a trailer for hauling motorcycles), Platoon Leaders, Assistant Platoon Leaders and Platoon Tail Gunners. Of course, we can always use more fuel, staging and road guard team personnel.

If you are interested in these positions or any position in leadership, please submit a volunteer form and I will contact you. (Please Hyperlink to the form here)

It is not too late for returning riders from last year to submit an after action report (AAR) discussing their thoughts on the 2025 Midway route. All comments are welcome and can only help me to provide a better experience for the 2026 Midway route. So please take advantage of this opportunity. (Please Hyperlink to the form here)

I would like to welcome Tai Harmon, road name “Hitch” who cohosts the famous “Boots and Hitch” Podcast for RFTW. She will be riding the Midway route this year and is very excited to meet you all. She has also graciously accepted my offer to be the social media lead for the Midway route for 2026.

Any ideas any of you may have to improve Midways social media footprint please feel free to contact me at ed.brundage@rftw.us with your idea and I will discuss it with our new social media lead. All ideas are welcome!!!!

WELCOME HITCH to the Midway family!!!!

Please keep walking , running, swimming, hiking, going to the gym or maybe playing a lot of golf (No cart). Just keep moving. The bulk of our riders are 60 plus and closing on retirement or are already there.

This 10-day journey starts early and ends late daily. If your body is not used to that it can be very difficult and hard to do your laundry.

Winter is getting closer, and it routinely drives us inside to warmth. Additionally, the Holidays brings on lots of goodies and they are delicious. So please stay active.

Much more to follow !!!!!!!

Enjoy your Summer!

“Tell their stories”  “Say their names”  “Never Forget”

“We ride for those who can’t”

“IS IT MAY YET”

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

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2025 RFTW Angel Fire Workday/Reunion and Dinner Registration

Registration for the Angel Fire Workday/Reunion is now open.

Registration link

Date:  Friday, August 29th to Sunday, August 31st with Taco Bar on Friday night, and Spaghetti Dinner on Saturday, August 30, 2025

Dinner Address: 51 E Therma Dr, Eagle Nest, NM (Laguna Vista Saloon/Restaurant)

All times are approximate and subject to change.

Thursday and Friday 29 August & 30 August:   

Preparation of grounds and Bricks. Location-Meet at the Memorial

1:00 PM Thursday-Volunteers needed to shovel and rake the base layer of sand.

9:00 AM Friday- General Area Preparations and Sorting of Bricks

Friday Evening 29 August, 6 PM

Reception at Laguna Vista Saloon

Saturday 30 August-At the Memorial

7:00 AM Pre-Program Activity & Set Up (Breakfast Burritos/Coffee Provided for workers)

8:30 AM Opening Ceremony. Followed by Brick laying of Westphal Foundation Bricks.

9:00 AM Medal of Honor Brick Laying.

12:00 PM (Approx.) Lunch provided to workers.

2:30 PM (Approx.) End of Workday – After last brick is laid the workday will conclude. Volunteers to help clean up and put away equipment will be needed and appreciated.

6:00 PM Dinner and Rider’s Forum (Laguna Vista Saloon/Restaurant) (Dinner cost is $45.00 per pre-registered person-Includes Reunion Patch). Any registrations received after August 18th will  be $55 per person (if the caterer can accommodate the addition).

Sunday 31 August

TBD

Please Complete the registration form and register for the Reunion. Payment of $45.00 per attendee needs to be received NO LATER than August 18, 2025. After August 18th, 2025 contact jim.mcdonough@rftw.us (360-731-0808) directly. ALL PAYMENTS MUST  BE RECEIVED BY THE 18th of August.

REGISTRATION LINK

NOTE: This is not an official Run for the Wall event. This is a gathering of individuals to support the Brick Laying and to get together. Riders and supporters from all Routes are Welcome.  You are responsible for your own lodging and transportation.

Looking forward to seeing you all there!

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Midway Route Coordinator Newsletter – July 2025

Wind Dog

Welcome to the 36th Annual Run for the Wall and “Happy 4th of July”

Wind Dog

My name is Ed Brundage, and my road name is “Wind Dog” and yes, if you were a participant of the Midway route 2025, it’s me again.  I am honored to be your 2026 Run for the Wall, Midway Route Coordinator.  My thanks and appreciation goes out to the RFTW Board for my selection. The board is currently reviewing my nominees for Assistant Route Coordinator and Road Guard Captain. I will post the results in next months newsletter.

Just a little about me, I am a US Marine Veteran having served around the world and in two conflicts, Vietnam and Desert Storm and served primarily in Infantry combat units.  I retired from the USMC in 1991. I completed a second career in Law Enforcement in Southern California and fully retired after 17 years.

My first year on the Run was in 2008 and I’ve ridden “All the Way” on both the Central Route and Midway Route every year since minus the Covid years.

I have held various positions on the Run, most recently as the 2025 Midway Route Coordinator.

I am very aware of the healing properties of this run. It has helped me heal from the survivors guilt I suffered from for many years after Vietnam. The lastest numbers released tell a sad story of up to 44 veterans per day losing their lives to hidden demons they brought home with them from our continued “War on Terror”. If this run can heal and save just one of these hero’s, then the time, cost and effort is worth it. So, please get the word out to all you know about this runs purpose and goals.

For all you FNGs (Friendly new guys/gals): Everyone is welcome to ride with us, whether you have served or not

The Run leaves Ontario, CA on May 13, 2026 and rest assured planning is already underway for this incredible journey.

Whether you ride for one day or one leg, it is important to be involved and support the Run. You will find that this Ride will change you both emotionally and spiritually.

We Ride for Those Who Can’t

The Mission of Run for the Wall 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.

We are one team and one family

The time begins now to start recruiting participants for the 2026 Run.  You are all ambassadors and recruiters for the Run.  Please get the word out and actively promote the Run.

Additionally, we need people to volunteer for the various positions of the Run, whether it be in a leadership or support role.  Even if you do not ride a motorcycle, there may be things you can do to help us out.  Please visit the volunteer page and sign up. Any and all positions are open until they are filled. First come, first served.

Volunteer Sign-Up – Run For The Wall®

Registration for the XXXVI Run for the Wall will open on September 11, 2025

In Closing, as we celebrate the founding of our nation, always remember, that 250 years ago, a very large group of very unhappy Colonialists rebelled against the sovereign King of England and wrote our “Declaration of Independence” It proclaimed to all humanity that as a new nation:

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.

Preamble to the Declaration of Independence

“Freedom is not free” Men and women have been fighting our countries battles since its founding to ensure our hard-fought freedoms are not lost. Let us not forget but remember those serving who are still in harm’s way, those who gave the ultimate sacrifice and to those who are still unaccounted for in service of our country.

RFTW Midway Route

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

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July 2025 Central Route Newsletter

Wall Mural, Concordia Ray Harvey Art

The Dog days of Summer are upon us and to the riders, newcomers, and supporters (especially the FNG’s or friendly new guy or gal) welcome to the 36th Annual Run for the Wall!  The Run leaves Ontario, CA on May 13, 2026 and rest assured planning is already underway for this incredible journey.

My name is Jim McDonough, and my road name is “Who?” and I am honored to be your 2026 Run for the Wall, Central Route Coordinator.  The Board of Directors has also approved Todd “Facetime” Taylor as the Assistant Route Coordinator.  My heartfelt thanks and appreciation goes out to the RFTW Board for our selection.

I would be remiss if I did not express my heartfelt appreciation and gratefulness to RC Kirk Olson, Senior Mentor Nick Hentges and Road Guard Captain Ken Ward as well as the rest of the 2025 Central Route leadership for their support and dedication to the Run.

A little about me, my father served in the Navy and in the Vietnam War.  As a result, I moved a lot while growing up, but this allowed me to see this country and travel overseas.  I have lived the longest in the Puget Sound area and have now settled in the Bremerton, Washington area.  I am a Navy Veteran having served aboard several aircraft carriers, flying the venerable EA-6B “Prowler” and deployed around the world during the Cold War, Middle East Conflicts and finally in Afghanistan.  I retired from the Navy in 2014.

My first year on the Run was in 2022 and I’ve ridden “All the Way” and “Wall to Wall” every year since. I have held various positions on the Run, most recently as the Assistant Route Coordinator.

My ARC, Todd Taylor is also a veteran of the Run having served in Platoon leadership roles, Road Guard, State Coordinator and Director of Purchasing for the RFTW.

For Those New to the Run: Everyone is welcome to ride with us, whether you have served or not

You do not need to ride all the way from Ontario, CA to Washington, D.C. or from D.C. to Marseilles, IL to be a part of the Run.  Although, most will tell you it is a most fulfilling experience to go “Coast to Coast” and “Wall to Wall,” where you see first-hand the people, scenery, and splendor that our country has to offer.  Whether you ride for one day or one leg, it is important to be involved and support the Run. You will find that this Ride will change you in some way.

We honor and Ride for Those Who Can’t

The Mission of Run for the Wall, and you will hear this many, many  times, 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.

Angel Fire Reunion

RFTW Angel Fire Reunion and workday.  This reunion/work party will take place from Friday, August 29 to Saturday, August 30, 2025.  Most people arrive on Friday and then leave on Sunday morning.  If you wish to come a day early on Thursday, or stay later than Sunday, that is up to you.  This event is open to all and would love to have anyone from our other Routes or the public to attend.  Although it is not an official RFTW event, Angel Fire is a stop on the Central Route in May, and during this August event we lay memorial bricks along the walkways of the memorial. Road Guard, Kenny “Scooter” Keelin, arrives a few days early and preps the area where the bricks are to be laid. Each brick has the name and service dates of any service member, living or deceased. Before being placed, their name is read aloud and solemnly placed on the memorial grounds by an RFTW rider.  Lunch is provided by the Memorial on Saturday, August 30.  Your registration fee will include dinner on Saturday night.  You are responsible for making your own lodging reservations in Eagle Nest, NM or Angel Fire, NM.

Vietnam Veterans Memorial – David Westphall Veterans Foundation

Photos from last year’s event can be found here:

2024 Angel Fire Reunion – Run For The Wall

The registration fees will be posted once I am able to get the evening meal finalized.

We are one team and one family with a Mission.

Riders!  Now is the time to recruit participants for the 2026 Run.  You are all ambassadors and recruiters for the Run.  Please get the word out and actively promote the Run.

It takes a village to get all those riders across the U.S. in 10 days.  We need people to volunteer for the various positions of the Run, whether it be in a leadership or support role.  Even if you do not ride a motorcycle, there may be things you can do to help us out.  Please visit the volunteer page and sign up, if you are so inclined. If there any questions about what you can do, please feel free to contact me.

Volunteer Sign-Up – Run For The Wall®

Registration for the XXXVI Run for the Wall will open on September 11, 2025

Thank you for your time and as we head out for the holiday weekend to celebrate the founding of our nation, it is time to remember, when almost 250 years ago, John Lind, Councilor during the reign of King George III and who greatly underestimated the upstart Colonialists, referring to the Declaration of Independence as  “…the most harmless piece of parchment that ever was sent forth into the world.”

But, John Adams, a signer of the Declaration declared, “The second day of July 1776, will be the most memorable epoch in the history of America.  I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the great anniversary festival.  It ought to be commemorated as the day of deliverance, by solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty.  It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forever more.”

So be like John Adams and enjoy yourself in celebration our Nation’s 249th birthday but be safe and be responsible; and let us not forget but remember those serving who are still in harm’s way, those who gave the ultimate sacrifice and to those who are still unaccounted for in service of our country.

Jim “Who?” McDonough

XXXVI Central Route Coordinator

EA-6B break

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Midway Route Coordinator Newsletter – June 2025

RFTW Rider Survey

I arrived home in southern California 10 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.

Wind Dog

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 2025 Leadership team. The leaders and their respective teams worked tirelessly since the end of 2024 to ensure your experience in 2025 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 and camping coordinator. Thank you, Jerry for keeping me “On Track” and providing sage guidance daily. You were always there for me

Sue “Odds” Chapin 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 and became the Missing Man Coordinator when that position became vacant. “Thank you, Sue”

“Java Joe” Bookataub not only was instrumental in developing a program that daily recognized our Vietnam veterans but also did a magnificent job at leading all platoon leadership and stepped up to be the Arizona state coordinator.

Lastly, I would like to recognize Alan “Rocketman” Farmer who stepped up and became my “Chief of Staff” when I lost our Assistant route coordinator. Alan seamlessly moved up beside me in the missing man formation and assisted me with guiding the entire pack daily through the last 6 days of this year’s run. I could not have done as well as we did without his recommendations, guidance and obvious leadership skills. Thank You, Alan for a “JOB WELL DONE”

Collectively, I hope the leadership teams made 2025 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”

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.

Wind Dog
Looks like someone got a much-needed haircut and beard trim.

My personal story was told on an early RFTW Podcast titled “Midway is in my soul”. It tells my story of healing from years of survivors’ guilt and the years of substance abuse and avoiding thinking about my honorable service.

Each year I visit my brothers and tell them how life has been for me. Out of the 8 on this portion of the wall, one is my personal hero. He stopped a bullet that was meant for me. He gave his life so others could enjoy the freedoms provided by a free nation.

His name is Larry Looby and went through recruit training, advanced Infantry training and shipped to Vietnam with me. We were in every sense other than biological, brothers. I lost my brother to a gunshot wound, in battle. It tore a hole in my soul and was a large reason that I did not want to see his name engraved on that black granite wall.

This run, this marvelous experience of meeting the many patriots across this great nation afforded me the courage to finally go see Larry and the others.

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.

If our combined efforts can save even a few, it was well worth the time, effort and money.

“Tell their stories”  “Say their names”  “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.

Lastly, remember that we had a road guard go down this year. He has a very long road to recovery.   Please keep Pace “Pawkee” Bonner in your thoughts and prayers.

“IS IT MAY YET”

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

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June 2025 Central Route Newsletter

*(This newsletter is best read and designed to be read at this link.)
RFTW and Central Route, Happy Belated Father’s Day, and Welcome Home.  RFTW and Central Route, Happy Belated Father’s Day, and Welcome Home. As I look at the calendar, I can’t believe that it is already 3-weeks since I got home from the 2025  35th Annual Run for the Wall.  As I look at the calendar, I can’t believe that it is already 3-weeks since I got home from the 2025  35th Annual Run for the Wall.

(OK… Who has the “Audio Relay” setting turned ON on their GMRS radio!?! Whoever is NOT hearing or reading double, it’s YOU!) ???????? (OK… Who has the “Audio Relay” setting turned ON on their radio!?! Whoever is NOT hearing or reading double, it’s YOU!) ????????

As I reflect back over the this years’ Run, I am flooded with emotions, everything from joy and sadness (at times), and everything in-between. It was wonderful to see old and new faces, and a chance for me to get know many of you better. This Run did not happen by accident.  It happens because of the countless volunteers, state coordinators, team & crew leads, and their respective teams.  So, State Coordinators, Road Guards, Missing Man Coordinator, Staging Crew, Fuel Crew, Ambassadors, Outreach, Chaplains, Orange Hats, Medical, Last Man & Chase, Hydration, Registration, All Leadership Support (FNG Liaison, Platoon Coordinator, Raffle Rousers, Photographer, Quartermaster), and the volunteers that feed and welcome us into your local communities…. THANK YOU!

I especially would like to single out four personal Thank You’s.  Nick Hentges, the 2025 Mentor, and the 2024 RC, thank you for continuing to pester me until I said “yes”.  Kim Greeley & Jenny Ward, you morphed into my Chief(s) of Staff on about Day 1.  Thank you, thank you. And finally, my Assistant Route Coordinator, Jim McDonough, you were always, always there stepping up. I could not have done this without you.  Thank you for helping make 2025 one of the best Run’s we have had.

My goal this year was to make the Run memorable, meaningful, and yes, even fun, as we honored and rode for those that came before us, died and fought for our way of life and our country. It is my hope that it was all of that for you and more — especially for our FNGs.

I’d like to remind all of you that it does really help if you fill-out an After Action Report. There is also a link to it on the Central Route Hub. They have already started to roll-in, and I promise you that Jim and I do read them. Tell us what and who was great, and what and who was not.   I have already taken notes from several of them for my final report-out to the BoD.

For many people on the Run, myself included, there is probably a “moment” every RFTW that becomes a personal  memorable moment, you know, the kind that hits you that you will never forget.  My moment from this years’ Run was Day 3, May 16, 2025.  I had pre-arranged with Tom “Bones” Pogue to secretly slot my father, Harlan Olson a Vietnam Veteran, into the Missing Man Formation on the final leg into the Angel Fire Memorial, and he was not to find out until we were to depart from lunch.  The problem we encountered was that my dad’s bike was acting up, so he left our first stop in Albuquerque to go straight to an H-D Dealer to see if they could diagnose and fix his mis-firing bike.  I sent him a text message informing him that he had enough time to meet us at lunch.  I needed this to happen because he still did not know he was slotted for the Missing Man. He ignored it because he was riding and did not know it was me. All he felt was a vibrating phone in his pants pocket. He only pulled over to take a picture of his bike’s odometer turning 100,000 miles. That is when and why he read my text, telling him to make it to the lunch stop.  He finally did.  When he arrived, I told him to go inside grab something to eat and drink because we were not to depart for a few more minutes. When he went inside, I quickly moved his motorcycle into the Missing Man Slot.  When he came back outside, that is when he discovered where his bike was, and where he was going to ride for the final leg of the Day into the Angel Fire Vietnam Memorial. On the ground chalked out were the names of two Vietnam Veterans.

When we got to the Angel Fire Vietnam Veterans Memorial, we all gathered near the Huey Helicopter there, and we laid two memorial bricks for those two KIAs, similarly like we do every Labor Day Weekend, when we lay several hundred at the RFTW Angel Fire Reunion.

Before the bricks were laid, I read this to our riders:
“It was the third inning, and the 2nd Air Division Cobras held a 6-1 lead over the Advisory Group Support Branch in their night game at Pershing Field, the U.S. military’s softball diamond outside Saigon. In the stands, 150 partisan American fans—soldiers, sailors, embassy civilians, wives and children—booed and cheered. Suddenly, two explosions under the stands sent shrapnel slicing through the planking, shearing the leg off a G.I., hurling jagged splinters like missiles into the crowd. Amid the wreckage, two soldiers lay dying, 23 other Americans dazed and injured.

Set off by two stolen, U.S.-made fragmentation bombs buried in the soil, the sabotage was the gravest anti-American terrorist episode in South Viet Nam’s war against the Communist Viet Cong —and an unsettling commentary on the Saigon military regime’s security apparatus, since the U.S. stadium is next door to Vietnamese Joint General Staff headquarters. The incident was also the latest in a fresh wave of terror ism directed at Americans.  What I just read was an article from TIME Magazine, February 21, 1964, titled, Bombs in the Ballpark.

SP4 Arthur Wayne Glover was a signal security specialist and PFC Donald R. Taylor a communications center specialist. Both were assigned to the 3rd Radio Research Unit (RRU) at Ton Son Nhut Air Base near Saigon, RVN. On February 9, 1964, Taylor and Glover were at a gathering along with a collection of 150 soldiers, sailors, embassy civilians, spouses, and children when two consecutive explosions hit the area. The bombs, two Claymore mines which detonated under the bleachers at Pershing Field during a softball game, sent a hail of shrapnel flying in all directions, injuring 23 individuals (another source quotes 41 injured) and mortally wounding both Taylor and Glover. It was later determined that the Viet Cong had planted a total of five mines under the bleachers. Military police found three that failed to detonate. Officials estimated that had they detonated, fifty persons would have died. The mines were on a circuit with a pocket watch with an hour hand, suggesting that they were set less than 12 hours earlier. It was later determined that Vietnamese were conspicuously absent from the game that night, and that a Vietnamese kid had told one of his American friends not to play under the bleachers.

What that TIME Magazine article did not say was that my father, Harlan Olson, served with these two men in the Army’s 3rd Radio Research Unit and he was sitting right next to them 30 minutes earlier, before these bombs went off. They begged my dad to stay and finish watching the game with them. However, he left the field to go back to his barracks because he needed and wanted to go a write a letter to my mother, who was a senior in high school at the time back in Decorah, Iowa. My dad would not be here today if he had not gone and wrote that letter to my mom. I would not be here today because this happened on February 9, 1964, and I was born in August of 1968. While I never knew them, these two soldiers are a part of our family, and that is why my family remembers Arthur Wayne Glover and Doanld Taylor.  I did not know until I was an adult, that dad had survivors’ guilt for decades. The Run for the Wall motorcycle ride has allowed him heal over these last 18-years.  We will never forget them.”

So, Riders, Continue to tell your stories.  Continue to tell their stories. Continue to say their names. Continue the Mission. When you do they are never forgotten.

It truly was my honor and privilege to lead you and our Missing Man Formation across this country.

Please also keep the Paul Woerth family in your prayers.

Is it May yet?

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

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May 2025 Central Route Newsletter

*(This newsletter is best read at this link.)
Central Route! May is finally here!! I have already heard of reports that some riders are already making their way west.  Some people like to visit family along the way and take their time.

As I mentioned last month, if you are starting in CA, Central Route is going to do things a little bit different this year. It is my aim to cut down on some of the multiple and sometimes seemingly redundant meetings we have had in the past, specifically in Ontario.  We will have ONE Central Route ALL HANDS meeting, at the Holiday Inn (2155 E Convention Center Way, Ontario, CA 91764) in the large ballroom at 1PM on Tuesday, May 13. This meeting is for FNG’s, all riders, and folks in leadership – All Hands. It is hours earlier than in the past, to give people time to rest, relax, and prepare for the next day’s departure.  I always hated us going up against the dinner hour the night before we leave, and now I get to fix that and try something new. It is my aim that this is a positive change for the better. We are cutting a separate FNG meeting, separate “leadership meeting”, and then having an all hands on top of all of that.  Team leads will still have their meetings, but that is on them to schedule around our one Central Route ALL Hands.

The Central Route Itinerary is out and published. The Ontario schedule is also published. PDF of it is here.

Let’s talk about the Kansas Turnpike Toll Road:
Thanks to the hard work of Dan Webster of CVMA 21-4 and ABATE of KS District 4 our tolls in KS are going to be covered.  IMPORTANT: All riders and support vehicles on Central Route that register after April 30th MUST notify the Registration team when you check in so they can make note of your vehicle plate number and state. Also, if you are in or on a different vehicle than indicated on your online registration let them know, otherwise you will receive a toll bill from the Kansas Turnpike Authority.  Please register with the Registration Team on May 18th at the Eagles Lodge (supper location) as soon as possible if you plan to join RFTW at Junction City.    The cut off time for Last Minute Moe’s, anyone who registered after April 30th, is around 7:30 p.m. to get your license plate entered into the system to get your toll covered. If you register the morning of May 19th your toll will NOT be covered.

If you have a DriveKS or KTAG account, you need to deactivate the tag of the vehicle you will be using for RFTW before May 19, or you will get a toll charge along with Dan’s DriveKS account being charged. Make sure to not deactivate your tag before you travel west in case you use the Kansas Turnpike on your way to join RFTW.

It’s very easy to deactivate.  Log in to your DriveKS or KTag account.  Under the tab “Vehicles & KTAGs”, click on “View All Vehicles and KTAGs”, next click on “View and Edit All Vehicles”, find the vehicle you will be using and click on “Make Inactive”.  Then after May 19th, go in and make it active again.  This can also be done using the DriveKS app from your phone and it works exactly the same way.

This is the first year RFTW is going through the cashless tolling process in Kansas.  Many other states have been doing this for many years on toll roads.  So I’m hoping this goes as smoothly as possible for this year and future years.

One quick note about the GMRS Radios. BTECH recently released in January a large, new firmware update 0.8.0, and now 0.8.3 for the GMRS-PRO radio. This update added a VOX feature. If you did or do any of these updates, check and make sure to DISABLE or double-check that the VOX FEATURE is DISABLED!  This could potentially cause too many unnecessary ”open mic” transmissions. You should not use VOX on The Run.

To Disable:
From the front panel of the radio:
MENU > Radio Settings > UNCHECK Enable Vox

(make sure there is no checkmark under this feature and setting)

Additionally, on a side note, when connecting to a Sena headset, you sometimes might hear a never-ending loud beeping.  The fix for this is to roll the volume all the way down on the jog dial of the Sena, and then back up to where you want it.

Register for the 2025 Run now

Registration is now $75 until April 30th.  Then it goes to $90. Price is slightly lower under the Day Rider Program.  Go to the registration page now.  Everyone is highly encouraged to REGISTER for RFTW in 2025 now.  This helps us make an accurate plan for May.  If you are in Leadership you need to be getting registered now, if not already.  Your registration is your indication to us that you are committing to your volunteer position.  FNGs please also register as early as you can.  We know plans can change. This immensely helps our State Coordinators plan for meals, etc. Your registration fee basically covers, the privilege to ride with the Run in the pack, which in-turn gets you breakfast, lunch, and dinner at all of our stops across the country that is provided by our donors and supporters.  We could not do it without them.

Register for RFTW 2025

I look forward to seeing everyone in-person starting next week!  Ride safe and see you soon!

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

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

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

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

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

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Midway Route Coordinator Newsletter – May 2025

RFTW Rider Survey

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

We are now just 12 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 11-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 “early purchase” Pre-Paid fuel option is now closed.  But, you can still get your pre-paid fuel sticker at registration check-in – CASH ONLY! 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 Itinerary

The Midway Route Itinerary has now been published and is available HERE. You can either print out a copy or 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 Schedule of Events

The Ontario Pre-Run Itinerary/Schedule of Events has also been published and each of your team/Platoon leaders has been given a copy. 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 if you wish to use it.

Registration

Believe it or not, there are still individuals who have not registered for the run.

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 24 May at 0900. You need to be there early to find a good location for 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 19 motorcycles with 38 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. A lottery will be used to select the riders. FNG’s and Vietnam vets only!

Please contact your platoon leader for additional details

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 2025, please remind them that there are only 12 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 in order 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
2025-Midway Route Coordinator
2023-2024 Advance Team Lead
2013-2022 Fuel team, Asst Fuel team Lead
2008-2012 Central Route ATW