We all started to gather at the Walmart Super Center at 05:45. Karoni is taking a group today to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial on the fairgrounds here. I joined this Outreach today. ROTC Cadets presented colors. Our Honor Guard then placed a wreath at the Memorial after we were informed about the different sections and engraved panels. There is a separate panel for Texans that are MIA in Vietnam. From the time when first built and dedicated in 1989 the number of names of MIAs is down to 99 which is about 33%. THIS IS WHY WE RIDE!!
We left our Outreach and headed toward the first fuel stop which was at Brookshire’s in Terrell TX. We were fueled and then waited to join the main pack. Snacks and hydration were provided by local groups. There was also a short ceremony.
Now on to Longview TX to the Fairgrounds. We were met by many along the road prior to arriving at the grounds and once there the drive was lined with flags and cheering supporters. There was a variety of food choices but what was most appreciated was the air conditioning. Humidity is high and my bike was showing ambient air temperature to be 96 degrees. Along with all the normal things done at a stop we had a young lady sing the National Anthem for us. WOW, did she have a voice!!
Leaving Longview we headed toward Monroe LA. On the way running side by side, with me in the right track, the bike to my left disappeared sound wise, looked left no bike, looked in left mirror no bike,, and then when checking right mirror, THERE HE IS!!!!! Coasting on the berm an safe. Was told it was an electric power issue but more importantly, he “Tapped Out” and everyone behind us responded appropriately! Once in Monroe we arrived at the Shriner’s Hall and were treated to fried catfish, french fries, hush puppies, cole slaw and (shh, the best in the world) tartar sauce.
Welcome Home Rick!!
Rick is from Sacramento CA. He served in the Army in Vietnam 69-71 in the Artillery. He was assigned to bring supplies up te the guns, be it shells on down to rations. He is one of the men who allowed those guns to breath fire without ever triggering them. Rick got involved with the urging of some friends who do The Run. He told what as impressed jhim the most is everyone is friendly and the “love we have for each other.” When asked if he would be back he responded that he would not due to financial constraints. His eyes told me he would love to come back. Rick, I hope God enables another Run in your future.
Due to circumstances beyond our control, Midway Route Photos from previous runs are no longer available. 