Category: Southern Route SitReps

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Day 8-Chattanooga, TN to Wytheville, VA 🇺🇸 Home stretch

Today began dark and early, I know you’re surprised by that!

Morning Rider’s meeting, 1st Nav shared the story of Silverdale Confederate Cemetery and the 155 unidentified souls interred in the cemetery. Since Southern Route has started contributing to the cemetery, 40 remains have been identified.

After 1st Nav’s introduction to the cemetery, Santa Ed auctioned off two Silverdale Cemetery patches. Not really, he just showed them and remembered when patches were really auctioned off. Instead of auctioning the patches, hats were passed to raise money for the cemetery. Riders donated $1,800 to continue to search for the Missing in Action interred at Silverdale Cemetery. This is one of my favorite things the run supports. What better fits the RFTW mission than supporting the identification of American Soldiers, interred in their own country???

From Chattanooga, it was on to the T/A Truck Stop. Road Guard Scout, Gonzo had been waiting DAYS for this stop and enjoyed the donuts to the fullest 😝.

One more gas stop and then we were off for Bristol-Black Wolf Harley Davidson. A nice lunch was waiting for us with all the cold drinks we could ever want for.

After that it was onto Wytheville, VA a small town with a huge patriotic heart. The town welcomed us with much fanfare. We parked our bikes on the sidewalk that rims the town center. A nice ceremony was conducted and it was off to the Moose Lodge for a steak dinner.

Today Southern Route went on an incredible Outreach in Dalton, GA to the sister and 101.5 year old mother of Maj. Bobby Jones, Vietnam MIA. 1st Nav & Wookie have carried his bio the last several years across country; “reading his story is moving enough but actually meeting the family and hearing about what they’ve been living with for over 4 decades….this is why we ride.” Thanks 1st Nav for sharing the experience with us.

I have got to get more sleep, before I crash my bike. I have more stories to share but they will have to wait. If you are wondering if Run for the Wall is right for you, I promise you it is, this ride will change your life.

Tonight’s thought: Duty, honor, country

As young West Point cadets, our motto was ‘duty, honor, country.’ But it was in the field from the ride paddies of Southeast Asia to the sands of the Middle, that I learned the motto’s fullest meaning. There I saw gallant young Americans of every race, creed and background fight, and sometimes die for ‘duty, honor, and their country’.” General Norman Schwarzkopf

DISCLAIMER – I am not only too tired to proofread, I am exhausted. More tomorrow.

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Day 7 – Meridian, MS – Chattanooga, TN 😢Emotional Day

Today began dark and early. Breakfast was held at the Meridian, Age-Pavilion. After clean laundry was collected and stowed on bikes, riders chowed down on breakfast and soda! I love the south!

Morning rider’s briefing was held. All Platoon Leadership was brought up to the front and introduced as a group. We were then informed we would all be getting pink slips in three days. ARC, then invited riders to consider serving in a leadership position next year.

We then traveled on to the Tuscaloosa VA Medical Center. I try not to get personal in the sit-reps but tonight I have to make an exception. Today I met Sgt. Shane Strickland USMC, he served 2 tours in Afghanistan and 1 tour in Iraq. He suffered a spinal injury during a training accident.

When I walked up to the hospital, Shane was reclining in his special wheel chair. I could tell he suffered a serious spinal injury but I wasn’t sure of his mental state. During the pledge and national anthem he was making eyes at me. At that point I knew mentally he was in there. After the ceremonies were over I went up to meet him. He was so happy and was attempting to speak with those around him. I hung back a bit and when the crowds cleared, I stepped up to present him with one of our platoon pins. I took his hand, showed him the image of Joan of Ark and explained that this year there was an all female platoon Leadership. He thought that was just wonderful and gave the biggest grin. I bent down and kissed his cheek and hugged his shoulder.
THE COST OF FREEDOM CAN BE FOUND AT ANY VA HOSPITAL.

I have spend the remainder of the day thinking about Shane. Shane gave everything to his country. He will live the remainder of his days at the Tuscaloosa VA Hospital, mentally fine but physically unable to do much. Shane has no family, no one to visit him, send him birthday greetings, bake him a cake, remember him on the holidays. My heart breaks 😢.

Run for the Wall family, I ask you to think of Shane and send him a card or a gift to let him know he has not been forgotten. Cards, letters and gifts can be sent to:

Sgt Shane Strickland
3701 Loop Rd,
Tuscaloosa, AL 35404

From the VA Hospital we went on to the Piggily Wiggily. We encountered a nice rain shower en route to the Piggily. Didn’t stay long and off we went to navigate our way through down town Chattanooga during rush hour. Things went pretty smoothly, bumper to bumper traffic but the pack held it together and without mishap made it to the White Lightening Harley Davidson Dealer. A HUGE shout out to Ghostrider for doing a rolling block to get us off the highway, just in time.

Today I was pulled from my spot as 2nd Platoon leader to ride with Sergeant major, a Road Guard. I did not ask for this “opportunity”. Someone up the chain thought it would be a good idea for Platoon Leaders to see what the pack looks like and the ramifications of not riding in tight formation. This took me so far out of my comfort zone, I can’t even tell you! I experienced many riding firsts. Let me preface this by saying I live in Metropolitan Southern California, the concrete jungle. So today, I rode on grass for the first time. Took my bike off the pavement and onto the gravel and then back on the pavement for the first time. Went up a curb to a center divider and then off it on the other side. Made a u-turn on a highway on ramp. And went 5 over the speed limit 😝. I never knew “five over” was so fast.

I now know for certain, I NEVER want to be a road guard. I knew that already but… I have great respect for the road guards and the job they do. I am thankful they are willing to do the job and that they enjoy the heck out of it. I understand the need for platoons to stay tight. I hope I am not asked to ride with a road guard again. I’ll stay in my little Platoon bubble, they know me there and I like it.

I’ll write more about the ride tomorrow when I am not so emotional about coming face to face with the cost of freedom and so many riding firsts.

I love the run and the opportunity to meet so many American Heroes and love them. That’s why I am here, to love the veterans and to ride for those who can’t.

Tonight’s thought:

“The Bible says the angels of heaven are God’s Army; When you stand in Arlington, you know God has a damn good one.”

God speed and ride safe tomorrow.

DISCLAIMER: Too tired to proofread, deal with it. 😝

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Ambassador update – Day 5 & 6

This tired sit-rep reporter forgot to include the Ambassador Team report in the last two sit-reps so here’s an addendum to update you on the wonderful work the Ambassador’s have been doing. Thank you Little-bit for the Ambassador write-ups.

Day 5 – Texas State Veterans’ Home

The Ambassador team, on an outreach, had lunch with the Veterans at Texas State Vets Home in Bonham, Texas. One of the residents was a Frozen Chosen Marine. Another was on Iwo Jima when the American flag was raised. It was a honor to meet some of the last surviving members of the Greatest Generation.

Day 6 – General Chennault Museum

Today the Ambassadors visited the General Chennault Museum in Monroe. He was the renowned leader of the Flying Tigers in China & Burma in World War II. A legendary hero of the air war against the Japanese.

Riders are gathering at the Meridian Age-pavilion as I type this. Type to hit the road. Safe riding everyone!

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Day 6 – Monroe, LA – Meridian, MS – Crossing the Mississippi

Today was a beautiful, picture perfect riding day, not too hot, not too humid, it was very, very nice. Morning staging took place in the Sam’s Club Parking lot. McDonalds was there serving breakfast sandwiches and the Amvets had snacks and caffeinated sodas, hallelujah!

Robert Reavis, “Old School” shared the MIA, why we ride story:

In addition to Old School the Military Suicide Prevention officer for Louisiana spoke to the group. He shared some very sad statistics:

114,000 veterans have committed suicide since 9-11
8,000 veterans a year commit suicide
22 veterans a day commit suicide

Suicide Hotline 800-273-8255

Santa Ed has been giving riders, patches, stickers and t-shirts, hoping to spread awareness that our military are in trouble and need our help.

The Louisiana State Police have to show off every year. It’s okay, all the riders enjoy it.

From Monroe, LA we rode to Jackson, Mississippi, the most patriotic town in America! This took us across the mighty Mississippi. Always a milestone on the Southern Route. Jackson, MS goes all out every year to welcome the riders. I wish every American and especially every veteran could ride in to Jackson with Run for the Wall. It’s an amazing show of patriotism. The ultimate Welcome home!

Captain Robinson spoke to the group. He was held captive in North Vietnam for 7 years. He had quite a story to tell. He shared a number of interesting observances: “Never commit the troops before we commit the nation”. “Never will a generation of veterans abandon another.” AMEN!

Riders enjoyed the Trail of Honor, a walk through US History beginning with The American Revolution. With reenactors and artifacts. This was a three-hour stop, which was nice. Had a chance to rest, catch our breath before pushing on to Meridian, MS.

Seventy Mississippi State Troopers escorted across the state. It’s really something to watch them control traffic. The 99 miles from Jackson to Meridian was a straight shot on East on I20 with not a moving car in sight.

Enjoyed a good dinner, riders turned in their dirty clothes to the nice people who do our laundry and then it was off to the host hotel.

Tonight’s quote:

“I am more afraid of an army of 100 sheep led my a lion than an army of 100 lions led by a sheep.” Charles-Maurice de Talleyrand

DISCLAIMER – Excuse the spelling and grammar errors, I am exhausted. It was so tempting not to bother to write a report.

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Day 5-Grand Prairie, TX – Monroe, LA ☀️Picture perfect day until 🌧

Today Platoons 2 & 3 and the Ambassador Team went on an outreach to The Texas State Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Dallas Fair Park, Dallas, TX. Since I am in Platoon 2, I was on the outreach and not with the pack.

We joined up with the pack in Terrell, Texas, a wonderful stop with the locals showing support for the riders.

Onto lunch at Longview Fairgrounds. This is a great stop, more homemade sandwiches, hundreds and hundreds of them.

Every year J.P. Brimm and his wife Patsy Primm provide the entertainment and it is fantastic!

After Longview we crossed the state line into Louisiana and with that come the Louisiana State Motor Officers. It is so enjoyable to watch them work. Racing up and down the highway, controlling traffic and doing their thing. Tomorrow morning they should perform a riding exhibition. I will share the video tomorrow. RC, Chad O’Dell, “Slacker” Thanked the motor officers for escorting us safely through Louisiana.

Today was an easy riding day. There was quite a contrast between the Texas dry desert and the lush green trees and grass of Louisiana. I for one welcomed the change. Every once in a while you would get a whiff of flowers or grass, very different from the smell of oil in the Texas Permian Basin. I welcomed that change too. The temperature finally cooled down, there was a little cloud cover and sprinkles every now and then. Until we were 10 miles from target, then the heavens opened up and dumped on us. It was nice though. Pulled into the Shriner’s Hall and had a nice dinner and program and off to the hotel.

Walking into the hotel I noticed “Dragon” holding a clean pair of socks and jeans, GUESS WHAT??? Tomorrow is clean jeans day. The folks at Meridian Agi-pavilion take in rider’s dirty laundry and return it clean in the morning. The kindest, selfless service EVER! I can’t wait for clean jeans!

We have been picking up riders steadily everyday. It is fun to watch the new riders being welcomed into the platoons by the more seasoned riders. Run for the Wall is truly a family where everyone is welcomed and loved.

Tomorrow we cross the Mississippi, woohoo! Day 5: 1,762 miles travelled, only 1,209 left to go.

Let’s close tonight’s sit-rep with this thought:

“Each man must for himself alone decide what is right and what is wrong, which course is patriotic and which isn’t. You cannot shirk this and be a man (or woman)” Thomas Tusser

Good Night and God Bless all our riders,be safe out there.

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Day 4 – Odessa TX – Grand Prairie TX. 🎉 Surprise! ☀️Hot & 💨Windy

Day 4 began with a delicious breakfast provided by American Legion Post 430. After breakfast we took a 10 mile ride to The Permian Basin Memorial. For Vietnam Veterans, this is a very emotional stop. The angle of the helicopter coming in and the soldiers on the ground hoping for a ride out of the jungle brings back very vivid memories.

Southern Rider, Karoni Forrester “Hoops” Dad’s name is on this memorial. She graciously agreed to share her father’s bio with us.

Capt. Ronald W. Forrester, USMC
MIA 12/27/72 – North Vietnam

Ron was 25 years old when his plane was shot down over North Vietnam. Two days after Christmas, 1972 and one month to the day before the Peace Treaty was signed. Capt. Ron Forrester and his pilot, Cast Jim Chipman went on a solo night mission as part of Operation Linebacker II. Their A-6A Intruder never returned to base. It is believed their plane was hit with anti-aircraft artillery. Their crash site has not been accurately located. There are mixed reports as to whether either Marine was able to eject from the plane. Forrester and Chipman are MISSING IN ACTION

This is why we ride!

AMBASSADORS REPORT –

The Ambassador team paid tribute at the Texas State Cemetery to two of Texas’ fallen heros, who both earned the Metal of Honor posthumously. The team laid a wreath at each gravesite. Their citations are written in large plaques in the cemetery. Alfred Wilson, U.S. Marine was KIA when he jumped on a grenade to save the others in his squad, absorbing the full force of the blast. Marvin Young, U.S.Army, was critically wounded, he stayed behind to cover the withdrawal of his men and died on the battlefield.

After lunch at the Colorado City, Railhead Building we had two 100+ mile rides to Grand Prairie. Made it through Dallas with nary a hiccup, thanks for the LEOs and fantastic road guards. Gonzo out in front of the Pack is doing a fantastic job and Wild Cat is bringing up the rear. Road Guard book ends.

I think we’ll close with a quote about duty. Southern Route riders wear many hats, often times it’s not the job they were enlisted to do. Everyone pitches in and does what needs to be done. So…

“Do your duty in all things. You cannot do more, you should never wish to do less.”
General Robert E. Lee

Good Night, safe riding to all three routes tomorrow.

P.S. I am too tired to proof read or spell check. Sorry if there are mistakes.

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Day 3, Las Cruces NM to Odessa TX ☀️hot & windy 💨

Our morning briefing included a safety briefing from Captain, the Road Guard Captain. Las Cruces did not provide LEO escorts in town, nor would they allow our road guards to stop intersections or direct traffic. This created an interesting situation. Two road guards were assigned to each platoon as we travelled through town, obeying ALL the traffic signals, stop signs and turns. After my platoon made it to the memorial I went up to thank our road guard. I told him I had never led a platoon, having to obey all the traffic laws. He laughed and said, me either. Well, for first timers, it went quite well.

Check this out, 3 Southern Route leaders, sharing the bad news of no LEO escorts through Las Cruces.

A big shout out to our Road Guards, up early, standing out on the hot pavement, getting us down the road. THANK YOU!

Stopped at the Las Cruces, Veteran’s Memorial Park, there was a nice ceremony. A short video is posted on the Run for the Wall Facebook page and Instagram of the National Anthem. Very moving to start the day with over 100 veterans singing the National Anthem.

Made it to Texas today! Texas and Texans are amazing! This is the fourth state on our journey. Some states we pass through the people, stuck in their cars on the side of the road get angry at the inconvenience of having to wait for us. In Texas, the people get out of their cars and salute the veterans as they ride by. THAT’S IMPRESSIVE.

We had lunch in Van Horn, delicious home made salads. Corn bread salad, I’ve never had it, care to share your recipes?

On to Odessa with a quick pit stop in Pecos for a fill up and empty out. (if you get what I mean 😝)

After 345 miles we pulled into Odessa and a delicious dinner of fried catfish, fried chicken, hush puppies and homemade ice cream. All prepared by Catfish and Company and donated by Brazos Door and Hardware of Odessa, Texas. Thank you Crossroads Fellowship Church for opening your doors to us. It was very nice to get done after a long, hot day and walk into a nice air conditioned building. Thank you to you all!

I have requested reports from the Ambassador team and Out Reach team. Tonight we have our first Ambassador Report:

ANGELS WATCHING OVER ME – AMBASSADOR REPORT

The Ambassador team encountered heavy traffic entering El Paso. General’s Driver was very concerned they would not make the assigned stops when out of nowhere, a Texas State Trooper came to the front of the team, turned on his lights and escorted the team through the heavy traffic to the next fuel stop where he was thanked and given a run pin.

Since we are in Odessa tonight, birthplace of Chris Kyle and the location of his monument, we will end tonight with a quote of his.

“It was my duty to shoot the enemy, and I don’t regret it. My regrets are for the people I couldn’t save: Marines, soldiers, buddies. I’m not naive, and I don’t romanticize war. The worst moments of my life have come as a SEAL. But I can stand before God with a clear conscience about doing my joB.” CHRIS KYLE God Bless you Chris and your family for your service and sacrifice.

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Day 2 – Chandler AZ – Las Cruces NM ☀️Hot & Windy💨

A great day to be alive and a beautiful day to ride!

The day began, sunny and warm, a nice 70 degrees. Our first stop was in Marana, AZ. We gassed up at the Circle K and swung around to stage in the parking lot of a little bar. We were thrilled that the parking lot was paved this year and we didn’t have to deal with gravel. It’s the little things in life. We did need to use kickstand pads as the black top is so soft the bikes sink. Gotta love Arizona ☀.

Marana, AZ might be a small town out in the Arizona desert, but they have big hearts! The gas stop was donated by DVMA 3212, VFW Post 5990 Auxiliary, breakfast was donated by Mike Kemery and Maricopa VFW. Wow! a big Thank you from RFTW – Southern Route!

Gunny was in Marana and we got a peek at his new FNG Patch that was presented to him yesterday. Gunny and I discussed the other 15 original ATW riders. Looking forward to seeing Cowboy in Odessa, that leaves 13 missing riders. Perhaps someone will seek them out… hint, hint.

Before we knew it, it was time to hit the road. We crossed into New Mexico at 1:40 and crossed the Continental Divide at 2:40. That’s always fun. Next stop, Wilcox Arizona.

Wilcox is another small town in Arizona with a big patriotic heart! The kids come out with posters and flags welcoming the riders. The Elks lodge hosts our lunch. The VFW performed a flag ceremony. So much happened in such a short amount of time, I didn’t get the names of everyone involved in the program. The Wilcox PD lead riders in and out of town.

Upon leaving Wilcox we experienced a 100+ mile leg, 100 degree weather and 100 mile per hour winds. It was a fabulous day, because, it wasn’t raining!

I have a question for local New Mexico residents. There are signs posted telling travelers what to do in a dust storm:

1. Get off the road.
2. Stay buckled up.
3. Turn lights off
4. Take foot off the break.

What the heck is that? Seeing all the signs and the fierce wind, I wondered what we would do on motorcycles if we experienced such a dust storm.

The day ended at Barnett’s Harley Davidson Shop. They do such a good job hosting the riders of the Southern Route every year. One of the favorite high lights is the ginormous flag flying from the Fire Engine. Thank you Barnett’s for hosting us year after year.

I just have to give a shout out to my most wonderful husband. He gassed up my bike tonight so I could start working on the sit-rep. It’s a good man that will gas up your bike after a long day of riding. Thank you honey! (he never reads this, but what the heck)

We’ll end tonight with this thought:

POW/MIA

For as long as we have Wars
And we send our Young to fight
We’ll have Those who are Missing
And the POWs plight.
All People of this Nation
Have this Duty to fulfill.
We must keep Them in our thoughts
And, We must have the Will
To bring every One home
And do all we can to find
All those POW/MIAs
And leave NO Souls behind.

Good night and God Speed

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Day 1, Ontario CA – Chandler AZ, 50 mile detour

It was a beautiful morning to kick off the XXX Run for the Wall.
3 Routes – 1 Mission

To quote Board of Director President, Les Williams, “This is a mission, not a joy ride. We are here for our brothers & sisters. The rider’s meeting began with the usual, prayer, pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America and The National Anthem.

As the National Anthem began a quiet hush fell over the crowd. Slowly and gently, voices could be heard joining in. The voices swelled in one united chorus. Brought chills to my bones and made me that much prouder to be an American 🇺🇸.

The Flag ceremony was performed by the 2nd Battalion, 23rd Marines. Les dismissed them immediately so they could spend time with their families, as they are being deployed soon. May God Bless them and keep them. 🙏🏻

James Gregory “Gunny” was then presented with the one thing he’s never been awarded, an FNG patch. Hahaha! Les, dismissed the group with these words, “We will meet again in Washington D.C.” Amen! And we were off!

The Southern Route made it to their first stop, 92 miles, a little ahead of schedule. Wookie shared the story of Specialist Elliott Crook, assigned to Company A, 101st Aviation Battalion, 101st Airborne Division: “The Screaming Eagles”

On May 16, 1971 Spc Crook was the crew chief of a UH1H helicopter. Other crew members: Lt. Joseph P. Nolan, pilot; W1 Craig L. Farlow, aircraft commander, and SP4 Timothy J. Jacobsen, door gunner. The helicopter was the 7th to land on the LZ. On departing the LZ, pilots of 5th & 6th helicopters reported taking enemy fire. LT. Nolan reported that he was taking heavy ground fire, that his crew chief was wounded. Lt. Nolan immediately took off and at 250 feet, witnesses saw his aircraft rapidly lose roter RPM and crash into the tree tops, bursting into flames. No survivors were seen to exit the aircraft. The crew is missing in action.

THIS IS WHY WE RIDE!

“Man doesn’t die as long as he is remembered” WE REMEMBER!

We left Coachella ahead of schedule for the 92 mile ride to Blythe. Four miles in, we left California and entered Arizona. We also crossed the Colorado River. The ride was beautiful, saguaro Cacti on either side of the road. The cacti have new growth right now. The tops of the cactus look like they are growing hair. The ride was a little hot, my temperature gauge pegged at 120, but it’s a dry heat 🤪.

Blythe rolled out the red carpet. The Blythe JROTC conducted a beautiful remembrance ceremony.

I ate lunch with an MIA son, Joe Stuart, he is an FNG rider. I have his Father’s biography and will share it another day. We are honored to have Joe riding with us. We love you Joe and are glad you decided to join us.

Pulled out of Blythe, again ahead of schedule. Bee lined it for the Tonopah – Shell Station. Once in Tonapah, we learned there was a problem on the I10 and Arizona State Troopers would be escorting us on the detour. WELL, little did we know it was a 50 MILE DETOUR! Through the Sanora Desert National Monument Park, beautiful detour. The route was supposed to be 68 miles, it ended up being 114 miles. I was beginning to wonder if anyone at the front new where the heck the Chandler Harley Davidson was located.We finally arrived, enjoyed cheeseburgers and mac & cheese, called it a night and went to the host hotel.

I’ll end with today’s quote in the Southern Route itinerary. “My responsibility, our responsibility as lucky Americans, is to try to give back to this country as much as it ha given us, as we continue our American journey together.” GEN Colin Powell.

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Pre Run Day, -1, Ontario, CA

Southern Route FNG’s Started their 2018 run with an FNG Meeting. Route Coordinator Chad “Slacker” and Assistant Route Coordinator Billie “Bugs” were on hand to answer any questions and lead us on to DC.

We were taught this year’s meeting break out. Here’s how it goes:

Why do we ride? – Response: “For those who can’t”
How do we ride? – Response: “We ride with heart”
Where do we ride? – Response: “All the way”

1st Mission? Response: “Provide Healing”
2nd Mission? Response: “Show Support”
3rd Mission? Response: “Call for an accounting”
What does that mean? – Response: “Bring them home”!

At the conclusion of the FNG meeting a MANDATORY, All routes all riders meeting was held in the staging parking lot. The Marine Corps Band from Camp Pendleton played for the riders. Major General Smith from Camp Pendleton addressed the riders.

The Major General and the Marine Corps band were given copies of the book “Run for the Wall – A Journey to the Vietnam Memorial. Les Williams referred to the book as the history and accounting of the run.

Then one of my favorite parts of the pre-run events, the awarding of the Combat Hero Bike Build. This year’s bike went to Dylan Gray.

Time to prepare for tomorrow, hopefully by tomorrow I will figure out how to post photos. The pre-run jitters don’t help with writing Sit-reps😉

Safe riding to all riders on all routes – God Speed you on your journey 🇺🇸🏍