Sitreps from the Runs for the Wall: Southern Route 2006

Thursday, May 18, 2006
Day 2

Early morning - We depart Phoenix for our first leg to Marana, Arizona. After a quick fuel stop the riders were treated to cold drinks by the Marana Grocery Store... and we're off to Willcox, Arizona.

In Willcox we were treated to a warm reception by the Willcox Police Department lead by Chief of Police, Jake Weaver and his fellow officers. We were also greeted by the Willcox Fire Department led by Assistant Fire Chief Patti Ackerson and her fellow fire fighters welcoming us to their community. We were fed lunch by Willcox Elks lodge 2131. Many thanks go to the Exalted Ruler, Billy Montano, their Secretary, Pat Stack and their fellow lodge members for providing lunch.

We have found new friends in Willcox, Arizona. We thank them for their hospitality and look forward to returning to Willcox next year. After a great lunch and awards ceremony, we prepared for our next leg of the day to Gage, Arizona. 

After a brief fuel stop at Gage, it is off to Las Cruces NM. Many thanks also go to Joseph Silva of Pic Quick who donated fuel to all run participants. We were met by the staff of Barnett's Harley-Davidson in Las Cruces and were provided dinner by Santa Fe Grill. A special thank you goes to the United States Army for the aerial support and the troops that showed up to greet us. 

We would like to commend the riders today for their riding skills and hanging tough through the weather challenges we faced...Of noteworthy mention, we are proud of our FNG's. 

We would like to thank all the RFTW supporters who are not able to participate in the run but are supporting us by monitoring our journey through these SITREPS. 

Submitted by
Steve "Hawgwash" Hill
MSgt. USMC (Ret.)

Friday, May 19, 2006
Day 3

Morning - Breakfast was served at the VFW Post 10124 in Las Cruces, NM, by the members. We thank them for a wonderful start to Day 3. The Las Cruces Police Department provided an escort out of the VFW post and to our memorial site by Sgt K. Clements and his fellow officers. We were escorted to the Las Cruces Veterans Memorial Park by a Hummer driven by SFC Carrillo and Lt. Nanez of the 729th Infantry (F Co. FSC).

We stopped at the Las Cruces Veterans Memorial Park for a Wreath Laying Ceremony.

We had a quick stop in Clint, Texas for fuel and cool drinks and were welcomed by Sgt Juan Torrez and Trooper Eric Fournier of the Texas Department of Public Safety Highway Patrol - El Paso. After a brief rest we then moved on to our next leg of the journey and lunch stop...Van Horn.

Back on the road we proceeded to Pecos, Texas for fuel. Many thanks to Flying J Truck Stop for their generous donation. Arriving at Midessa Motorcycles we were treated to a "Texas-sized" dinner provided by IBCA, CASI, and Operation Desert Storm Association. 

The highlight of the day was after sunset when a group of riders lead by "9-Ball" traveled to the Permian Basin Memorial site to view the spectacular creation to honor those lost in Vietnam. The monument, "Final Dust-Off", has Huey helicopter suspended in the air lighting the warriors that fought so gallantly for your freedom.

It was a great day with a bunch of great people. 

Submitted by
Steve "Hawgwash" Hill
MSgt. USMC (Ret.)

Saturday, May 20, 2006
Day 4

What a spectacular West Texas sunrise that greeted us as we begin Day 4 with breakfast at Midessa Motorcycles. What can be better than a "Texas-sized dinner"...?
How about a "Texas-sized" breakfast? Then it is on our way to the Permian Basin Vietnam Veterans Memorial. 

We were greeted by Bill McNeill (US Navy Veteran, Gunner's Mate 2). Bill told the history of the memorial and how it went from a vision on a bar napkin to this spectacular memorial that it is today. 

We had the honor to be blessed by Luis Tijerina "Watching Wolf" of the Comanche Nation. "Watching Wolf" performed an ancient ritual created by his ancestors. Many RFTW participants participated in this touching ceremony. "Watching Wolf" (Luis) is a Sundancer and has spent over a decade honing his skills to represent his nation. 

Luis, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts for the ceremony you performed and wish you and the people of your proud Nation the best that life has to offer. 

After the touching ceremony we witnessed, we are on our way to Big Springs, Texas for our next memorial service. 

After a wreath laying ceremony we traveled to Colorado City, Texas for lunch at Colorado Middle School. We met a couple that stopped to watch us travel by, they followed us and later we found out that they were the parents of SSG Clint Newman, 321st Civil Affairs Bde, Ft. Bragg, NC, KIA, 13 February 2006 in Afghanistan. Fred and Debra Newman joined us for lunch and were presented POW/MIA pins by the Run. We wish them safe journeys as they travel to Ft. Bragg to honor their son and other fallen warriors.

We are extremely proud of the students of Colorado Middle School and we would like to spotlight one student, Ramiro Lara, of the 9th Grade and his fellow students who prepared lunch and the patriotic presentation. As a note, all the students came in on a day off from school to honor the veterans. We especially thank them for the Veteran's Project they have been working on throughout the school year and the memorial that they are creating. We leave our friends in Colorado City and head to Weatherford, Texas.

Arriving in Weatherford, we are treated to an excellent dinner by the American Legion Post 163. We would like to highlight a warrior that served during WWII. He is currently the Chaplin of the Post and former Sgt. with the 99th Infantry Division who fought in the Battle of the Bulge in France and Belgium in 1944. He was a member Co. "F", 2nd Bn, 394 Inf. Division (The Lost BN). During this fierce battle and over a 4 day period his unit fought in hand-to-hand combat as they secured the area and returned to the safety of friendly lines. This heroic battle earned Sgt. Chuck Katlic two Bronze Stars for valor and the Combat Infantry Badge (CIB). 

Today Sgt. Katlic is instrumental in honoring veterans at more than 30 cemeteries in the region and is often a speaker to the next generation of warriors, the students of local schools. 

Sgt. Katlic, we salute you for your service as a member of the greatest generation to ever wear the uniform. 

The riders continue to make us proud as we near the half-way point of Run for the Wall - Southern Route. We would also like to wish our family on the Central Route a continued safe journey and we will see you in less than a week in Virginia. 

Submitted by
Steve "Hawgwash" Hill
MSgt. USMC (Ret.)

Sunday, May 21, 2006
Day 5

Departing Weatherford, TX we are in route to our first fuel stop in Terrell, TX and are greeted by the American Legion Post 517 (Roger Hudacak, CDR and Jerry Uitermarkt, Finance Officer) and their fellow post members. Also here to show support is the Terrell Chamber of Commerce lead by Sarah Kegerreis and Sue Humphreys. After a brief fuel stop and beverages we are heading east to Longview, TX.

Arriving in Longview, we are met by local veterans and citizens, fed lunch at the Texas National Guard Armory and then on to Monroe, LA

We arrive to a scene of many riders and local citizens as we are greeted by one of the neatest stops along the route. Monroe, LA is rich in history and we had the opportunity to learn more of that history during a presentation by the Sons of Confederate Veterans who included Mike Cappel (Camp Cdr., Monroe), Chuck Rand who gave a spectacular lesson on the flag history of Louisiana and Todd Owens, Div. Cdr., along with other members of their organization. 

It seems that people from Monroe like to brag about their food and we can tell you first hand that they have every right to do so. We were served Creole food, catfish, gumbo and rice, hush puppies, fries, salads, and an endless table of desserts. Each rider waddled back to their bike after dinner and rode to their hotels to reflect on a great Day 5.

We are in a unique part of the country, and were enlightened by a unique part of American History where brother fought brother, but each one fought for their beliefs and we honor their service and their sacrifice. 

Many thanks go to the Shriners for opening their hall and providing camping facilities. It is one of the highlights of our journey and we can't wait to return again. 

Submitted by
Steve "Hawgwash" Hill
MSgt. USMC (Ret.)

Monday, May 22, 2006
Day 6

Departed Monroe, LA for Meridian, MS. What a spectacular day with a stop in a favorite place for RFTW - SR; Jackson, Mississippi. Where do we begin???

Several of us arrived early to Jackson and were greeted Col. Sherrard and his fellow officers of the Army Aviation Heritage Foundation. We took a 15 minute ride in a Huey helicopter through the countryside prior to the day's festivities beginning. For more information on this outstanding organization, please visit http://www.armyav.org/. We had the privilege of meeting SgtMaj. Shanda Elkins, USMC, a 30 year veteran and member of that organization. Many thanks to our pilot, Byron Lestor, Col., USA, and "Mac" our Crew Chief, you made our day. 

Following our spectacular ride, we gathered indoors for the official ceremonies. Among the dignitaries were: Capt. (USN) Tom Hudner, Naval Academy graduate and recipient of the Congressional Medal of Honor during the Korean Conflict; Col. Richard Still, ex-POW, Korea; Samuel Tso, Navajo Code Talker from WWII; and a long-time friend of ours, Jack Lucas, USMC, Congressional Medal of Honor recipient: the youngest Marine and the youngest American to receive that award in the 20th Century for actions on Iwo Jima. Also in attendance were the Adjutant General, Maj. Gen. Cross, Mississippi National Guard former Prisoners of War from WWII, Korea, USS Pueblo, and Vietnam, and the navigator of the flight crew of the Enola Gay, Theodore van Kirk, which delivered the atomic bomb on Hiroshima. Many thanks to the Army Parachute team and their fellow Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines who were in attendance. 

We also met members of an elite organization, who not only fought a personal fight, but fought for you and I, the Tuskegee Airmen. We thank you for your honorable service. 

The Navy band from New Orleans was outstanding as they provided music and honors for all the dignitaries. 

The riders had the unique opportunity to visit the Trail of Honor, a hands-on experience where one can visit the era of the American Military from the Revolutionary war up to and including the War on Terrorism. We thank the many members who have dedicated their time, research, and devotion to the era they represented. Thank you, "Lucky" Osborne, 1st Class Petty Officer (ABH), USN; Commander of the Trail of Honor. 

During the Trail of Honor, we witnessed an "incredible feat". Where else but on the Southern Route would you ever see a Vietnam Veteran from the US Air Force firing an artillery piece from the Civil War era? Bob ‘Nail" Brown, you did us proud. 

Sometimes in combat it was easy for a forward observer to call in air strikes, aircraft support, recon missions, etc. But what do you do when you want to put on a show for 600 plus riders: you call on "EARL", owner of Harley-Davidson Motorcycles of Jackson, Mississippi who coordinated a B-52 fly-over from Andrews Air force Base, Maryland. Earl, you promised us great things would happen each and every year as we visited your wonderful dealership, and you certainly came through again for us. Thank you and all the members of your dealership for making us welcome. 

This leg of our trip would not be possible without the outstanding support from the law enforcement agencies of Mississippi: State Police and Jackson Mississippi Police Department. You always make us feel safe and secure as we transit though your state. WELL DONE. 

A proclamation was read from the Governor of Mississippi, proclaiming Monday, May 22, 2006 Run for the Wall day in Mississippi. 

A special thank you goes to the many citizens of Mississippi who lined the freeway and stood on overpasses with flags and banners honoring the Veterans as we traversed your great state. 

This year we were missing a very important person during our stop in Jackson, MS, but we know he is watching over us this very day. It was a great loss to the people of Mississippi, and to each and every Veteran that has ever worn the uniform of the Armed Forces. Many of you might recognize the name by a bill that he created: The Montgomery GI Bill. 

WE DEDICATE THIS SITREP AND THIS PORTION OF OUR RIDE TO THE MEMORY OF UNITED STATES REPRESENTATIVE "SONNY" MONTGOMERY FROM THE GREAT STATE OF MISSISSIPPI. 

Submitted by
Steve "Hawgwash" Hill
MSgt. USMC (Ret.)

Tuesday, May 23, 2006
Day 7

What a wonderful conclusion to Day 6. A police escort into Meridian, Mississippi where we were met by the Mayor, his wonderful Police Department, and other Dignitaries. Meridian has always been a welcome stop for the riders and we appreciate the hospitality. Many thanks to "Gunny" Lenington, USMC (Ret.) for the generous fuel donation to the riders. After a brief gathering at the Ag. Pavilion in Meridian, we are off to our first event of the day at the Tuscaloosa VA Medical Center. 

A beautiful facility on a magnificent piece of property, it is a wonderful place that provides the treatment and healing so needed by the Veterans of the community. Everyone should be proud of their VA Medical Center.

Arriving early, we had the opportunity to view the Alabama Vietnam Moving Memorial which displays the names of 1,209 Alabamians lost during the Vietnam War. This magnificent memorial is cared for by Charles Brasher and Donna Thomas. We had the opportunity to spend some time with Donna who also had her motorcycle on display as a pictorial memorial to her brother PFC Jimmy C. Elrod, Co. C, 2nd Bn, 8th CAV, 1st Air Cav Div (Radio Operator): Killed in Action December 7, 1967. 

Donna's mother, Ruby Elrod, passed away several years ago and Donna created this motorcycle memorial because she believed that once she and her sister passed on, Jimmy would be forgotten forever. We spoke at great length about Jimmy and how he loved his two sisters and his mom and how he was always protecting them. We assured Donna that as long as Run for the Wall exists, the memory of Jimmy WILL live on. Jimmy's mom, Ruby, had a vision that her son had died in combat and shortly after that vision, it became reality. There are over 58 thousand similar stories of brothers, fathers, sisters, husbands that have paid the ultimate sacrifice and we will never forget any of the stories. (For more information on this incredible story, we will post it on www.rftwsr-2006.us in the near future)

We are a few short days away from our arrival in Washington, D.C. where we will visit The Wall. We want everyone to know that they are more than a name on a piece of granite, but each had a story and each was taken from us way too soon. WE WILL NEVER FORGET. 

After a brief stop for fuel, in Gadsden, Alabama, we are on our way to Chattanooga, Tennessee. We were met by Deputies Emory Hubbard, Vince Gilham, Doug Miller and Ryan Strickland of the Jefferson County Sheriff's Department. As a special note, these motor officers were riding fully decked out HONDA GL1800's. The officers complimented RFTW and the riders for the outstanding way they transited the area to include a NASCAR quality fuel stop with very little interruption to local traffic. We want to thank the Sheriff's Department and the above mentioned officers for taking their time to insure our safety and easy transit through the area. You have been one of the premier Law Enforcement agencies that we have had the pleasure to be in contact with. 

The riders were totally surprised by local organizations that provided food and beverage during that fuel stop. Many thanks to Ronnie Teel of Teel's Bar and Grill, David Santos of Thunder Roads Magazine, Gregerson's Grocery for donating some of the food and Mike Bryant of Buffalo Rock for the beverages, along with all the other people helping cook and prepare the food for the riders. 

Arriving at Thunder Creek Harley-Davidson in Chattanooga, we were greeted by the employees and Rolling Thunder Local Chapter 2, Tennessee. A wonderful meal was prepared by The Dinner Bell, owned by Joe and Denise Youngblood who traveled over 45 miles from Flintstone, GA to feed the riders. After dinner the riders dispersed to the various hotels for a much welcomed rest. 

Each day our riders hone their skills a little sharper, the FNG's are pulling together and blending well with the veteran riders and everyone continues to make us proud of RFTW Southern Route. 

We wish our family on the Central Route a continued safe journey with good weather and the wind at your backs as we prepare to converge in Virginia in a few short days. 

Submitted by
Steve "Hawgwash" Hill
MSgt. USMC (Ret.)

Wednesday, May 24, 2006
Day 8

We would like to note that the afternoon fuel stop on Day 7 was donated by Run for the Wall. Thank you very much for the donated fuel. 

Departing Chattanooga in the early morning hours we began our journey to Wythville, Virginia. 

Our first fuel stop was the TA Truckstop outside of Knoxville, Tennessee. Many thanks to Randy Smith, General Manager of the TA Truck Stop, who furnished coffee and doughnuts for the riders and to Channel 8 (CBS) WVLT of Knoxville, TN for covering our arrival. Once more we received outstanding Law Enforcement support by Knoxville P.D. (Motor Officers) Donny Sams, Larry Presnell, Darrell Johnson and Benny Mitchell.

We were met at our lunch stop by the Mayor of Wytheville, VA, the Honorable Trent Crewe. The Mayor is no stranger to Run for the Wall and this year he had not only his grandson riding with us today, but a very special young lady, Chelsea Stroupe, of Crockett, VA. Many of the RFTW family communicated with Chelsea during a time in her life when she could not pursue a lot of her favorite things due to a physical injury. One of Chelsea's hobbies is collecting postcards, and she received nearly 200 from her RFTW family while recuperating from hip surgery. Chelsea loves to play softball, basketball and soccer, loves animals and we even bet she loved riding on that Harley-Davidson as she led the pack into Wythville, VA with the Mayor. 

It is always a pleasure to ride in to the community of Wythville, VA with it's flag-lined streets, manicured lawns, classic, down-home Americana look. Many of the citizens of Wythville lined the streets as our procession rode through. We gathered at their Memorial Park for the opening ceremonies and the start of a wonderful time in this community. We heard from the Mayor and one of the highlights of the afternoon events was Mark C. Peterson of UAW Local 2069, chairman of their Veteran's Committee who again presented two incredible big-rig tractors (one Mac and one Volvo) completely decked out honoring America and it's heroes to include a mural of the aftermath of 9-11 (to read Mark's address, please visit www.rftwsr-2006.us in the near future). From the memorial park, we were quickly escorted by the local Police Department to our hotels to check in and then prepared for the ride to the Moose Lodge #394 for a steak and chicken dinner. Many thanks go to the Moose Lodge membership and the ladies of the Red Hat Society for feeding the troops. 

Prior to dinner, we had the opportunity to speak with Lucille Hensley about her husband, Marshall Hensley, SSG USA, POW during the Korean War (32 months). Marshall is no longer with us but he will always be remembered as another great warrior who served his nation. Upon arrival in Washington, DC, we will take photographs of the Korean War Memorial, which Marshall never got to see, and we will present those to Lucille. 

After dinner the riders disbursed to various locations within Wythville: the Harley-Dealer, the Dairy Queen, the local grocery store, and many could be seen with their motorcycles parked along the streets talking with members of the community. It will be an early night for many of us because tomorrow morning we are going to be watching a bunch of tough old Veterans wiping away tears when they will be greeted by the children of Wythville. 

For many days now we have had great help from our Road Guards, our Platoon Leaders, the Leadership Team and one person we would like to recognize, who is always there for us and watching out for every rider is our Chaplin, "Pointman". Thank you and may God Bless YOU and YOUR BRIDE.

Submitted by
Steve "Hawgwash" Hill
MSgt. USMC (Ret.)

Thursday, May 25, 2006
Day 9

The wonderful people of Wythville, VA donated fuel for the riders in the morning. The morning meeting in Wythville included breakfast served by the local citizens. Morning ceremonies began with the local school children from Spiller Elementary School. We were treated to patriotic songs with a highlight by soloist Ryan Layman. RFTW conducted a wreath-laying ceremony and presented awards to the citizens of Wythville. 

In his morning address, "9-Ball" also reiterated the fact that we do a lot to reach the children. Everything we do would be forgotten if it weren't for these great kids who will carry forth the message. 

Leaving our great friends in Wythville, we are on to Montvale Elementary School where we were greeted by Janet Brouhard, the principal, Miss Cathy Epps, the music coordinator and the wonderful children of Montvale. As you walked the halls of Montvale Elementary school you will notice the true meaning of their mascot, "The Little Patriots". On display is their "Wall of Heroes" which includes the names of all the Run for the Wall Veteran riders. Like in the movie "Back to School" with Rodney Dangerfield, we picked up our lunch and proceeded to individual classrooms where many of the Veterans sitting in small seats are being educated by the younger generation. A few of the riders were given "time-outs" and one in particular was sent to the Principal's office. It is always a pleasure to return to Montvale and visit our friends, "The Little Patriots". 

After lunch, we were all rounded up and escorted to the gymnasium where a few "riders" found some basketballs and proceeded to demonstrate their skills. We would like to advise you that none of them were worthy of the NBA. Once preparations were made we filed into the cafeteria for the afternoon concert by the children. We were treated to patriotic songs and one particular group of students brought back memories to many riders as they performed a variety of songs from the 50's, 60's and 70's. One class performed a patriotic melody and were in full costume depicting highlights of the song to include Uncle Sam, the Statue of Liberty and an eagle. Their performance was interrupted numerous times by standing ovations from the riders. Prior to the conclusion of the ceremony, we were shown a slide show depicting riders and events from past visits to Montvale. 

From Montvale it is off to the National D-Day Memorial for a wreath-laying ceremony. This is one incredible memorial, depicting the landing on the beaches of Normandy during World War II. In great detail you will see the landing craft with it's ramp down, figures of warriors storming the beach through the water through the barricades as simulated artillery blasts showered them. Especially moving are the figures scaling the wall as their arms reach skyward to the memorial. As a note we are losing thousands of WWII Veterans each and every day and during this memorial holiday, and every day we should take a moment to seek out a Veteran of the Greatest Generation to ever wear the uniform, and thank them for their service. 

Now it is off to Roanoke, Virginia, for a much needed rest and to prepare for Day 10, the ride into DC.

Submitted by
Steve "Hawgwash" Hill
MSgt. USMC (Ret.)


Friday, May 26, 2006
Day 10

Day 10 - it is off to Toms Brook to link up with the Central Route. The successful staging of hundreds of motorcycles was choreographed by both routes Advance Teams and the Road Guards. The four-wheelers were all rounded up and headed towards the Nation's Capitol. A short time later, lead by the Central Route, a long line of motorcycles headed up I-81. Reaching I-66, the procession headed east and the riders could sense that they were getting close to their destination. It was quite a site to see the hundreds of riders united in one group for one cause as they reached Washington, D.C. 

We have arrived in Washington, D.C. and many think the mission is complete; NO...it has just begun. Until we have full accountability of our POW/MIA's, we still have work to do. To our FNG's...you have transitioned to a unique "Club"...you are now a RFTW veteran and we hope that you have had an experience of a lifetime. To the Veteran...thanks for running with us again. We have many people along the way to thank, especially our Southern Route Leadership team, lead by "9-Ball". As you visit many of the memorials in D.C. take time to reflect on the mission - WELL DONE. There are over 56,000 names on the wall - each one has a story and each one deserves to be remembered. 

A highlight to the arrival in Washington, D.C., many Veterans were escorted to the Marine Barracks, Washington, D.C. (8th and I) for a performance by the premier ceremonial detachment of the United States Marine Corps to include a performance by the Marine Corps Band (The President's Own), the Marine Corps Drum and Bugle Corps (The Commandant's Own), and the Silent Drill Platoon who performed a flawless execution of drill movements without verbal command. The Run for the Wall Veterans in attendance were given a standing ovation by the gallery and all the Marines of 8th and I. The Body Bearers, who participate in funerals at Arlington Cemetery, gave a cannon salute to honor all those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. We observed the lowering of the Flag followed by a lone Bugler standing high on the rooftop in the beam of a spotlight in full dress uniform as Taps echoed throughout the Barracks. 

Along the route we highlighted several of the warriors whose name appears on the wall. Their families and friends thought that some time in the future, those names would be forgotten. As long as there is Run for the Wall, our Veteran warriors and their children who we meet all along the way, these great warriors will not be forgotten. 

It has been an honor and pleasure to give each and every one of you daily insights of an incredible journey for an incredible cause. As you spend the weekend in the nation's Capitol, think about the journey you have just completed, take some time to enjoy the sights, but remember what the Memorial Day holiday is all about. A special thank you to the warriors who made the ultimate sacrifice to allow us to be who we are today. 

As you travel to your homes or other locations, be safe and remember you have a new extended family and we will see you again in 2007. 

Over the past 10 plus days, we have met thousands of supporters of Run for the Wall. Highlighted in these SITREPS were many of the special people who made this journey possible. We hope we have not left anyone out and thank you from the bottom of our hearts. 

THANK YOU AND WELCOME HOME. 

Submitted by
Steve "Hawgwash" Hill
MSgt. USMC (Ret.)