Day 2, Williams to Gallup
I think we left Ontario with about 450 people registered and about 350 bikes total. It sure seems like there are more in the RUN. Each group such as Fuel Team may have 20 to 30 bikes each and when each team is added up there are sometimes nearly as many bikes in total in the groups as ther are in the main body of the RUN. There are several good things about the many different teams. Many different teams provide opportunity for many people to be involved in their area of expertise and the entire group functions better because of the many parts. (There is a spiritual truth there isn’t there)
We left Williams and headed toward Holbrook. The weather was great and has been that way the last two days. Being the spoiled rider that I am with this job I have, I am able to move outside the group when necessary and today was one of those days. I wanted to get ahead of the main group and go to one of the overpasses and greet and talk to some factory workers who work at a nearby coal fired electrical plant. I was invited to go along with the Ambassador, which was a renewed treat for me. It was good to honor the workers, salt of the earth people for sure, and to share just a little with them and leave some pins. America was built by hard working people like these men and women and it was good just to be there.
Next we headed to Holbrook NM. It is a special place for several reasons. One, the people are so genuine and the kids at the schools are terrific. I will show several pictures that will explain better than my words so enjoy.
The last stop is Gallup NM. We were greeted for over 8 miles of dear people along the sides of the road that were waving flags and cheering for our men and women. We were also escorted into town by NM State motorcyclist and we will also have them for all day tomorrow. They really move quickly when they need to and me thinks it is somewhat of a game for them.
Gallup, NM. is a favorite for many of the riders because of the Navajo Nation’s presentation for us. The program was put on by the Black Creek Gourd Society. The Navajos believe the warrior is the top of the ladder in their world. In English warriors translates to soldiers and the Navajos show and incredible respect for the Veterans on the Run For The Wall. At one part of the program they ask the riders to join them. It is quite a site to see 200 bikers in leathers doing their dance. Comical maybe but oh so very sincere. They show us a level of respect that few people understand. I dare say if you were not there we could not explain it. They are very serious about the concept of our soldiers and their warriors are one. (Last paragraph by Dan Koster)
I wanted to get some new pictures of the school kids and of our entry into Church Rock but circumstances do not allow so I am posting two from last year but they show what I intended to capture today, just a year old.
Okay folks, thanks for watching and or reading. I am now going to get some needed sleep. I truly appreciate your interest in these and if you have any questions you can email me at rftwsitrep2018@gmail.com.
Until next time, ride safely and may God richly bless you all.
