Sitreps from the Runs for the Wall: Southern Route 2008

RFTW XX Pre-Sit-Rep, May 13, 2008

Riders from all over North America converged on Rancho Cucamonga to prepare for Run for the Wall XX. It was great seeing old friends again and the many FNG's that are joining us this year. Several events took place from Sunday through Tuesday night to include a ride to Riverside National Cemetery, a ride to the March Field Air Museum, and a fabulous dinner feeding 400 at Central Park provided by the employees of Raytheon [the primary facilitator making this event possible was Rancho Cucamonga City Council Member Rex Gutierrez, and the Rancho Cucamonga City Council arranged for the location], along with just some good old camaraderie around the hotels. Merchandise trailers were open for business beginning Monday afternoon as many people scurried around to get their run patches, pins, flag sets, etc in preparation for the run.

Many thanks to Carol Condit and her team for all the work they do in providing merchandise for the riders.

We would also like to thank "Top Sarge" and her team for making registration a seamless event and her welcoming home all of the vets with her special hugs.

Thanks to the vendors who showed up to provide their products and services to the riders in anticipation of the run.
We hope that everyone had a few days of rest and relaxation because we are now heading East in the morning.

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

As always, it is impossible to know and thank all of the kind folks who help us as we cross the United States. However, here is a list of special people and organizations who helped us in California:

Jim and Gwen Frost
Carol Condit
Mark Borsuk
City of Rancho Cucamonga
Raytheon Corporation
Hilton Garden Inn, Rancho Cucamonga
City of Blythe, California
Sizzler USA, Inc.
Shamrock Food Distributors
Blythe Yellow Ribbon Committee
Floyd Marlowe

Victoria Gardens
RanchoCucamonga Police and Firefighters
Spotlight 29 Casino
Pomona Valley Harley-Davidson (They stay open Sunday and Monday for us!)
Wings and Rotors Air Museum
K-FROG Radio
Red Hill Coffee Shop
Riverside, CA, All Forces Honor Guard
Doyle "Popeye" Tolbert
Bill "No-Chute" Hanlon
Jim "Jumper" Braga
Di Lucas
Bridget Madison


RFTW XX, Day 1, May 14, 2008

Good morning Run for the Wall XX, Southern Route! It has been a long year, the planning has been done, the preparations have been made, the teams have come together under the leadership of Roger "Cowboy" Mead and we are about to embark on our 20th Anniversary journey to Washington, D.C. A special thanks to the Board of Directors, the route Coordinators and their Assistants, the State Coordinators and the various elements of the leadership team for all of their planning prior to the event. It is a beautiful morning, and we are about to depart Rancho Cucamonga, California from the Victoria Gardens Mall with our first leg to Coachella, CA for our first fuel stop and our Southern Route Briefing.

After a brief fuel stop at the TA Truck Stop, we staged at Spotlight 29 Casino for the
Riders meeting and hydration. From there it was off to see our friends in Blythe, CA for lunch, awards ceremony and the POW /MIA presentation.

From Blythe we crossed the Arizona State line, heading towards Tonopah, AZ for the afternoon fuel stop. From there, under the escort of the Arizona Department of Public Safety "Highway Patrol" we were escorted to the Carl T. Hayden VAMC for visitations with the patients. After spending time with many of the veterans, it was off to the Radisson Hotel for dinner and to complete our first day of RFTW XX.

Thanks you's go out to: Morning - Rancho Cucamonga Police Department (Sergeant Greg Kreps , Officer Stroder and Deputy Long); CMA for breakfast; ABATE of California for the coffee; Pomona Valley Harley-Davidson for the Donuts; REI for the munchies and lip balm; CA Highway Patrol (Lt. Les Bishop, Sgt Mario Lucio, Sgt Billy Rangel, for over 40 years of service to the motorists of California); Richard of Spotlight 29 Casino (food & beverage director) for the many pounds of ice he donated.

Afternoon - Blythe Air Ambulance; Palo Verde JROTC, Blythe California, under the direction of 1st Sgt Edwards; Floyd Marlow and Janet White of Sizzler Restaurant in Blythe, CA. A very special thank you goes out to Christine Becken of Sizzler USA, San Diego, CA for the generous donation of lunch for the riders. A big thank you goes to the citizens of Blythe for their generous fuel donation; and the Blythe Police Department (Capt. Tim Wade, Sgt Wade, Sgt Ramirez, Det. Adams, Det. Cavazos, Cpl. Fabanick, CSO Tilch, CSO Elizabeth Wallace, and Officer Gloria Bluth).

The afternoon fuel stop was donated by Swift Trucking Company. After the afternoon fuel stop, we were escorted into Phoenix by Arizona DPS under the command of Sgt Leslie and Officers Bulger, Ritchie, Borquez, Graff, Murray, Barahona, Cook, Nelson, Grism and Pruet. Thanks again for getting us safely into Phoenix.

Many thanks to Outback Steakhouse for the fabulous dinner at the Radisson Hotel in Phoenix. The presentation of colors was by the Scottish-American Veterans of America for the evening ceremonies. Recognition by BGen. Maxon US Army (Ret) and LCdr US Navy Reserve representing Mayor Gordon Ryan Burke who read a proclamation designating May 14, 2008 Run for the Wall Day in Phoenix.

People in the Spotlight, Day 1:

Ryan Vega (11 yrs old) made 400 Vietnam Veteran key chains and distributed them to the riders in Rancho Cucamonga. Many hours of labor and love went into his gift to the riders. Thank you so much. He was escorted to the event by Bob Rohm, Chapter 785 VVA.

Cadet Marlo Barron - due to graduate May 28th from the US Air Force Academy and will be commissioned as 2nd Lt. in the US Air Force. After commissioning, she will be off to flight school to fly jets. We wish you many safe hours in the sky and a successful career in the Air Force.

The remains of Dick Darnell have been divided up so he can take his last ride on both the Southern and Central Routes where his ashes will be taken to the wall and then released to his family.

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


As always, it is impossible to know and thank all of the kind folks who help us as we cross the United States. However, here is a list of special people and organizations who helped us in Arizona:

Honorable Janet Napolitano, Governor of Arizona
Mayor Phil Gordon, Phoenix, Arizona
Carl T. Hayden VAMC
Elks Lodge of Willcox, Arizona
Radisson Hotel, Phoenix, Arizona
Arizona Department of Public Safety
Arizona Highway Patrol - Metro Motors
Carl Buttler
Joeta's Leather
David Russell
Swift Transportation - Jerry Moyes
Arizona Department of Veteran's Services
Willcox Department of Public Safety
Jake Weaver


RFTW XX, Day 2, May 15, 2008

Gooood Morning RFTW XX Day 2. We awoke to a beautiful Arizona sunrise. Last minute preparations were made for departures with riders fueling up, eating a wonderful breakfast served by Church in the Sun and forming up for our first leg to Marana. There was a memorial service for "Dick" Darnell where a portion of his ashes were turned over to the Southern Route for transport to the Wall in Washington DC. For your information, after Hurricane Katrina, Dick went down to feed the victims, serving about a million people. He was well known for serving food in Williams, AZ for the Central route for years and then spent the last few years serving food on the Southern Route.

300 registered participants left Phoenix, AZ for the ride to Las Cruces, NM.

After a fuel and beverage stop in Marana, AZ it was off to Wilcox, AZ to visit the many friends that we have met over the last three years. The Marine Corps Color Guard from Tucson Arizona presented the Colors and Teresa Goodwin sang a moving rendition of the Star Spangled Banner. Lunch was provided and served at the Elks Lodge 2131 under the direction of Exalted Ruler Larry Hamel and his wife Julia along with the membership at large. Fruit was proved by the Chamber of Commerce and water was provided by Doc's (where we also fueled up prior to lunch) Dunlop Oil Company.

A special Thank You goes out to Chief of Police Jake Weaver and his fellow officers along with the Wilcox Fire Department for your escort and support. After a great lunch, it was back in the saddle and off to Savoy, NM for our afternoon fuel stop.

After topping off our tanks and donning rain gear, it was off to Las Cruces, NM under air escort by the New Mexico National Guard. Special thank you to the Las Cruces Police Department, the New Mexico National Guard under the leadership of Captain Stewart and the gracious hospitality of Barnett's Harley-Davidson (Kim Barnett and her staff). After dinner, entertainment and a lot of purchases made by the riders at the Dealership and some unscheduled maintenance on bikes it was off to the Best Western Hotel for a well deserved rest.

A gracious Thank you to Pic Quick for the generous fuel donation to Run for the Wall XX.

On a different note, we would like to congratulate all of the riders on their safe passage through the State of Arizona.

Person in the Spotlight, Day 2:

We would like to recognize our person in the Spotlight for Day 2 RFTW XX, our friend, fellow rider and Chief of Police for Wilcox, AZ, Jake Weaver. Many of us have come to know Jake personally over the past several years and we appreciate his dedication to ensuring our safe travel through his community. Jake's career has been spent protecting the citizens and properties in Wilcox, AZ and soon he will be returning to active duty to expand that protection to all Americans as he fights the war on terrorism. We wish Jake all the success in the world and when his active duty mission is completed, hopefully we will see him back in Wilcox wearing the stars of the Chief of Police. Thank you for your dedication and service.

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

As always, it is impossible to know and thank all of the kind folks who help us as we cross the United States. However, here is a list of special people and organizations who helped us in Arizona:

Honorable Janet Napolitano, Governor of Arizona
Mayor Phil Gordon, Phoenix, Arizona
Carl T. Hayden VAMC
Elks Lodge of Willcox, Arizona
Radisson Hotel, Phoenix, Arizona
Arizona Department of Public Safety
Arizona Highway Patrol - Metro Motors
Carl Buttler
Joeta's Leather
David Russell
Swift Transportation - Jerry Moyes
Arizona Department of Veteran's Services
Willcox Department of Public Safety
Jake Weaver


RFTW XX, Day 3, May 16, 2008
Las Cruces to Odessa

Good morning RFTW XX Day 3. After a good night's sleep, it was off to VFW Post 10124 for breakfast provided by VFW Posts 10124, 6917 and 3242. Upon completion of breakfast and the riders meeting, it was off to the Las Cruces Veterans Memorial Park for a Wreath Laying Ceremony, where we were escorted by the New Mexico National Guard (NMNG). It was great to see Captain Stewart, NMNG, as Master of Ceremonies (...we are still waiting to see your Harley...). The presentation of Colors were by the Marine Corps League Color Guard, Detachment 478. The Beckman family participated in the Wreath Laying Ceremony.

From the Las Cruces Veterans Memorial Park it was off to our first fuel stop in Clint, TX After a brief stop for fuel and hydration, we are off and running to Van Horn, TX for lunch. Weather was iffy throughout the day with some heavy rain at times, a lot of drizzle and some wind. The riders all did a stellar job throughout the day despite the inclement weather. From Van Horn, we arrived at the Flying J Travel Center in Pecos, TX where we received an extraordinary fuel donation by Ray and Kay McDowell, "Too Tall" and "Too Small", owners of Ray's Equipment of Odessa, TX. From the Flying J we departed for Odessa TX to ...guess where...? Ray's Equipment, where "Too Tall" and "Too Small" this time fed Run for the Wall. We would like to also note that "Too Tall" and "Too Small" generously donated the RFTW dog tags to all the participants on the Southern Route. After a great dinner of catfish and all the trimmings, the riders disbursed to the various hotels for the evening.

A fair-sized group of riders departed at 9 pm for an informal memorial at the Permian Basin Vietnam Memorial. Arriving at the Memorial, "Wild Bill" gave us a brief overview of the development of this inspiring Memorial. Our very own "Preacher" then offered an evening prayer and "opened the floor" for comments from the riders about what Run for the Wall has meant thus far for them. Many FNG's expressed their heartfelt gratitude for being able to participate on RFTW and we are so proud that they joined us. Thanks "Preacher" for this impromptu session where many thoughts and expressions were made (along with a few tears).

From the Memorial we went back to the hotel for a god night's sleep in preparation for an early departure to Legacy Harley-Davidson for breakfast.

People in the Spotlight, Day 3

The citizens of West Texas who came out to show their support for RFTW XX, many lining the interstate from as far out as 40 miles. We thank you so very much.

Ray and Kay McDowell - you hear a lot of bragging about Texans, big state, big hats, big ranches, and we can now add another "Big" to Texas, that is a Big Heart. Many thanks to "Too Tall" and "Too Small" for your generous gifts to RFTW XX. It has often been said when you give that you receive ten-fold back. That is what we wish for you and your business.

Respectfully submitted by MSgt Steve Hill, USMC (Ret) "Hawgwash"

As always, it is impossible to know and thank all of the kind folks who help us as we cross the United States. However, here is a list of special people and organizations who helped us in Texas:

Sarabia's in El Paso, TX
Ray and Kay McDowell in Odessa
Staff of Ray's Equipment, LLD
RFTW West Texas State Coordinator, Diann "Mojo" Perkins


RFTW XX, Day 4, May 17, 2008
Odessa to Weatherford

Up and at‘em and off to Legacy Harley-Davidson for breakfast provided by the Odessa American Legion Motorcycle riders. After the morning riders meeting, it is off to the official Ceremony at the Permian Basin Vietnam Memorial. For those who are with us for the first time, this is a spectacular Memorial, honoring those lost during the war in Vietnam that were residents of the 30 counties which comprised the Permian Basin. We were once again honored by a ceremony conducted by Louis Tijerina "Watching Wolf", Chief of the Comanche Nation. "Watching Wolf" did a traditional Indian blessing of the earth, the people and RFTW XX. Thank you for your support for RFTW, the Veterans of the Permian Basin, for honoring the lives lost and for representing your Nation with exceptional pride. This Memorial has a special meaning for "Watching Wolf" as it bears the name of his brother.

Upon departure from the Memorial, it is off to Big Spring, TX to visit their Vietnam Memorial. This is another spectacular Monument to the Veterans of Vietnam with it's Huey helicopter and the F-4 Phantom jet fighter. In addition to the Memorial was added the All Veterans Monument, designed by Jerry Groves and Gene Wilson. This is the second Memorial that we have visited in West Texas that originally started as a drawing on a napkin. Who needs fancy laptops, computer programs or architectural renderings? Just get a couple of dedicated Vets on a mission, give them pen and paper and Memorials get built.

Back on the road, it is off again to visit Colorado City for lunch and ceremonies at the Railhead Building. Lunch was served and the presentation ceremony was done by the children of Colorado Middle School. We were entertained by the school's Stage Band featuring big band music, under the direction of Linda Clay. If you closed your eyes, it sounded just like the big bands of days gone by...Glenn Miller, eat your heart out... Many thanks to the Color Guard provided by the Inspector/Instructor Staff (USMC) from Diass Air Force Base (SSgt Torrez, Sgt Villa, LCpl Crabtree and LCpl Dobbs - you did us proud). If you think patriotism is disappearing among the younger generation, one needs only to visit Colorado City and speak with the children that have created tributes to each and every Veteran that has ever worn the uniform from that proud community.

After our departure, we are on the road to Weatherford, TX for dinner at the American Legion Post 163. Some of us were greeted when we arrived early by one of our favorite members, the post Chaplain, Chuck Katlic. Chuck is a WWII Veteran who received decorations for Valor at the Battle of the Bulge, one of the most bitter engagements of WWII in the European Theater. Chuck continues to educate children in the community on behalf of all veterans, and is instrumental in providing honors at numerous cemeteries in the area by escorting children to the cemeteries for flag placements.

After a great dinner and visiting with old friends again, it is off to the various hotels for a well deserved rest.

People in the spotlight, Day 4

The Children of Colorado City Middle School - When you think that the younger generation no longer caring about its Country's Veterans, we suggest you take a trip to Colorado City, TX for an education that will last you a lifetime. These young adults took it upon themselves to design a memorial, to research the cost, to implement the building of the memorial, to research the history of the Veterans in the community, and to honor all that have participated in RFTW. Maybe we need to send a contingent of these young adults to Washington DC to educate our "Leaders" in what patriotism truly means.

Respectfully submitted by MSgt Steve Hill, USMC (Ret) "Hawgwash"

As always, it is impossible to know and thank all of the kind folks who help us as we cross the United States. However, here is a list of special people and organizations who helped us in Texas:
Ray and Kay McDowell
Legacy Harley-Davidson
Students of Colorado City Middle School
Community Folks of Colorado City, Texas
Saulsbury Family Foundation
Additionally, the program from Colorado City Middle School let us know that they had these helpers:
Main Street
Kiwanis
Rotary Club
Lions club
Fuller Foods
City National Bank
Wallace Correctional Center
City of Colorado City
Chamber of Commerce
RFTW West Texas State Coordinator, Diann "Mojo" Perkins
RFTW Central Texas Coordinator, Janice Wentworth


RFTW XX, Day 5 - May 18, 2008
Weatherford to Monroe

Good morning Run for the Wall, Day 5. We rose to a beautiful sunrise over East Texas, and started our Sunday with a church service conducted by "Preacher". We sent out special prayers for Jack Lucas, who remains hospitalized in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. We are off to our first mid-morning fuel stop in Terrell, Texas. After fueling we were treated to snacks and beverages provided by the citizens of Terrell. A special thank you goes out to the Run for the Wall Hydration Team; American Legion Posts 517, 453, 165 and 162; Sons of the American Legion Auxiliary; The Lions Club; Brookshires; David from Raytheon Corp; and the Ray Riders who donated a $1,000 check to RFTW. After registering riders we are off to our lunch stop in Longview, Texas at VFW Post 4002.

In Longview we met Helen Smith (81) widow of Allen Gordon Smith, a survivor of the Bataan Death March. Allen passed away April 21, 2000. They were married over half a century and now Helen carries on Allen's work. Helen is the National Historian of American Ex-POW's, a volunteer at the VA Clinic, and lobbies for the Military Officers Association in Washington, DC. In her spare time she likes to line dance. Thank you for your many decades of service on behalf of all veterans.

After lunch we departed for a brief fuel stop in Minden, Louisiana and then back on the road to partake of what many riders have been looking forward to since Day 1, our friends in Monroe, LA and some good old Cajun cooking. A huge Thank you goes to Mike Cappel, the Louisiana Coordinator, and Chuck Rand, for his spectacular presentation of the history of the flags of Louisiana and the Confederacy. Chuck is the Historian and Chief of the Sons of Confederate Veterans. At the conclusion of the evening's event, the riders waddled to their bikes and headed to their various hotels for the evening.

People in the Spotlight, Day 5

Helen Smith of Longview Texas - for her decades of selfless service on behalf of all veterans, past, present and future.

Respectfully submitted by MSgt Steve Hill, USMC (Ret) "Hawgwash"

As always, it is impossible to know and thank all of the kind folks who help us as we cross the United States. However, here is a list of special people and organizations who helped us in East Texas:
American Legion Post 163, Weatherford, TX
Terrell Chambers of Commerce, Terrell, TX
VFW Post 4004, Longview, TX
Central Texas RFTW State Coordinator, Janice Wentworth
Central Texas RFTW Assistant State Coordinators, Ben and Cynthia Gurganus
RFTW Louisiana State Coordinator Mike Cappel


RFTW XX, Day 6, May 19, 2008
Monroe to Meridian

Good morning RFTW XX. It is now Day 6. After a good nights rest, the riders met at the Sams Club parking lot for their morning meeting and departure for Tallulah, Mississippi for a quick fuel stop and their escort into Jackson, MS for lunch and ceremonies at Harley-Davidson of Jackson.

The riders were escorted into Mississippi by scores of motor officers and squad cars, with their lights flashing and sirens blaring. As we crossed the Mississippi State line, we were greeted by two Huey helicopters provided by the Mississippi National Guard. These two helicopters not only created an entry into the great State of Mississippi, but also escorted the riders into the state and to Jackson Harley-Davidson.

The riders were treated to a static display of military weapons and vehicles. Prior to entering the building for lunch, a horse drawn Caisson bearing a flag-draped coffin followed by a rider less horse and inverted boots (signifying the loss of a fallen warrior) made its way past the hundreds of riders in attendance. Once inside, riders had lunch and were treated to presentations from various speakers to include keynote speaker Gary Wetzel, Medal of Honor Recipient. In attendance, were many dignitaries from the State of Mississippi to include the Lieutenant Governor, the Adjutant General, several Medal of Honor Recipients, Ex-POW's, highly decorated veterans from WWII, Navajo Code Talkers and Tuskegee Airmen. One very special person was not in attendance but was brought to us via a conference call to his hospital room in Hattiesburg, MS, Medal of Honor Recipient, Jack Lucas.

After the events inside the dealership, it was outside to wander through the Trail of Honor, hosted by Harley-Davidson of Jackson and the many volunteers who depicted every era of war that the United States has fought in. It is like going back in time when you wander the trail and speak with the actors who are not only experts on the era they represent, but present the information in period clothing and props. They make the history come alive again. There just isn't enough time to take it all in during a single day.

Overhead there were several low altitude passes by an assortment of military aircraft. It seemed like we were only there for 10 minutes when to our surprise, 4 pm arrived and it was time to mount the bikes for our police escort into Meridian, MS.

This concludes this day's report on the "official" day's rout of RFTW XX. For information on a side trip that was taken, please see the "continuation" below.

People in the Spotlight, Day 6

Earl of Jackson Harley-Davidson - What else can we say about this spectacular individual, other than "WOW"! Earl's famous last words are always "Wait until next Year" when asked how he could possibly top the presentation he sets up each year for RFTW. Thank you for making RFTW XX in Jackson, MS a magnificent event and as Jack Lucas says, you are "a prince among men". You embody the words that appear on the sign as we enter your great State, "It's like coming home." For those of you who may have seen his "Trail of Honor" the first time this year, Earl only crafts his "Trail of Honor" for RFTW. He opens it on the Saturday and Sunday before we visit to the public, but after we have visited it, he dismantles the "Trail" until next year.

Ruby Lucas - Over the past several years we have grown to know Ruby Lucas and her unwavering devotion to Jack. Always behind the scenes at military events and ceremonies, she is not only his wife, best friend and social secretary, but a downright caring person who does an extraordinary job in balancing Jack's travel schedule, and talking care of his personal health needs. We salute you Ruby, because you are a very special person and if we could award medals to our civilians, you would certainly be deserving of the highest award we could present.

We dedicate this day and this portion of our ride to PFC Jack Lucas, Medal of Honor Recipient, WWII (Iwo Jima), the youngest American in the 20th Century and the youngest Marine in history to be awarded the Medal of Honor. Get well soon and we hope to see you on RFTW XXI

(Continuation....)
Holly Thomas and I accompanied by International Pictures FX departed Jackson Mississippi, for a 90 minute ride to Hattiesburg, MS in order to spend some time with Medal of Honor Recipient, Jack Lucas. Jack did an on-camera interview and spoke to all of the RFTW riders and thanked them for their dedication and their continued service.

It is really ironic that a Medal of Honor Recipient considers all of us as his heroes. Jack was presented a carving from Holly that has been an ongoing project since early January 2008. It was created out of Brazilian Soapstone and was a representation of the actual Congressional Medal of Honor. On it was the inscription, "To Jack Lucas, February 20, 1945, Iwo Jima." After Rick "Hollywood" and his staff from International Pictures departed, Holly and I remained at the hospital for some personal time with Jack until 6 am of Day 7, RFTW XX. An early morning departure insured our rendezvous with the Southern Route at the Lunch Stop in Tuscaloosa, AL

Respectfully submitted by MSgt Steve Hill, USMC (Ret) "Hawgwash"

As always, it is impossible to know and thank all of the kind folks who help us as we cross the United States. However, here is a list of special people and organizations who helped us in Louisiana and Mississippi:
City of Monroe, LA
Sam's Club #8237, Monroe, Louisiana
Barak Shriners #185, Monroe, Louisiana
Louisiana Division Sons of Confederate Veterans
Honorable Haley Barbour, Governor of Mississippi
Honorable Phil Bryant, Lieutenant Governor of Mississippi
General William "Bill" Freeman, Adjutant General, Mississippi
National Guard
General Harold Gross, Adjutant General, Mississippi National Guard
Wayne Butler, Jackson, Mississippi
Earl Rottman, Jackson, Mississippi
Chuck Holifield, Jackson, Mississippi
Fire & Ice, MC, Jackson, Mississippi
Ken Storms, Meridian, Mississippi
Cheri Barry, Key Chapter American Red Cross
G.V. "Sonny" Montgomery Foundation
Omar Bhatti, Meridian, Mississippi
Bill Smith, Meridian, Mississippi
Jeremy Campbell, Meridian/Lauderdale County Tourism
RFTW Mississippi State Coordinator Don "Papa Bear" Stringer
RFTW Assistant Mississippi State Coordinator Tony "Spoiled Rotten" Compton


RFTW XX, Day 7 - May 20, 2008
Meridian to Chattanooga

Good morning RFTW XX, Day 7. After the riders morning meeting it is time to depart the Ag Pavilion for Tuscaloosa, AL (VAMC) for lunch and visitation with the residents. After presentations and a healthy lunch, many riders visited with the residents and staff of the VA Medical Center. This is always an impressive facility to visit with it s well manicured lawns, fantastic architecture, and the cheerful welcome we receive from everyone.

On the road after lunch, it is off to Ashville, AL (noted as Gadsden on the itinerary) for fuel and munchies provided by the following people of Ashville: Kirt and Donna Teegardin, Stan and Donna Romine, Bill Kiser, Charles Gamblin, Dan Carter, David Waters, Gary Standridge, Larry Ford, Ronald Cameron, Patti and Mike Britt, Jeff Bell, David Santos, Jack Moreson, Brenda Wright, and for the portable restroom facilities, paid for by the Gadsden Fraternal order of Police. This stop was almost a second lunch stop for us, the wonderful people of Ashville provided hot dogs; ice cream; beverages and a donated fuel stop at the Piggly Wiggly. We would like to give our heartfelt thanks to all of the volunteers that made our stop so wonderful.

After "snacks" it was off to Thunder Creek Harley-Davidson in Chattanooga, TN. This year the riders had anything but a leisurely ride into Chattanooga. High winds, pelting rain, golf-ball sized hail and flying debris were among the many challenges presented to the riders as they traversed Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee. Many thanks to Cowboy and his leadership team for suspending the ride so that riders could regroup and don more protective gear for the final hour's ride into Thunder Creek. The riders did a magnificent job of getting safely into Chattanooga.

Arriving at Thunder Creek H-D, we were treated to dinner and ceremonies provide by Rolling Thunder #2 of Tennessee and the Tennessee Valley Patriots. Many thanks to the VFW and their supporters for providing a great ending to a rather memorable day on the road.

People in the Spotlight, Day 7

Holly and I spent the early morning playing catch up with the Southern Route and were traveling alone from Hattiesburg to Meridian. Stopping for fuel, we met Jeff Holloway and Tim Sanders of Meridian MS. Tim was kind enough to let Holly go ahead in line to pay for fuel, seeing she was in a hurry, which allowed us minimal delays in catching up with the Southern Route. Jeff talked with Steve about how American values and patriotism amongst the civilians seems to get stronger as you head into the Southeast. He also thanked Steve for his service and hoped that we were enjoying everything Mississippi had to offer. As Jeff was talking with Steve, Tim came by and offered a prayer for us (to include Jeff) and RFTW. It was a wonderfully bonding experience amongst absolute strangers. We found and strengthened that common bond. Tim and Jeff, thank you for your small acts of kindness and the support you both show the Veterans of RFTW.

Respectfully submitted by MSgt Steve Hill, USMC (Ret) "Hawgwash"

As always, it is impossible to know and thank all of the kind folks who help us as we cross the United States. However, here is a list of special people and organizations who helped us in Alabama:
Tuscaloosa VA Medical Center
U.S.C.A.V.
Rolling Thunder, Chapter #2, Chattanooga, Tennessee
RFTW Alabama State Coordinator Richard "Dixie" Atkinson
RFTW Tennessee State Coordinator Clyde "Rock" Luttrell
RFTW Tennessee (Chattanooga) Coordinator Gerri "Sassy" Tramel


RFTW XX, Day 8 - May 21, 2008
Chattanooga to Wytheville

Good morning RFTW XX, Day 8. After a much needed rest, the riders assembled at Thunder Creek Harley Davidson for the riders meeting and the blessing of the bikes preparing for departure to one of our favorite spots along the route (our home away from home), Wytheville, VA. Preacher ordered some good weather for us through one of his "higher" contacts, and that request was delivered on. Before we left we had a Wreath Laying ceremony at the Confederate Cemetery and then the riders walked through the cemetery contemplating the gravesites of the many unknown Confederate Soldiers.

On the road at 8:30 am, we proceeded to our first fuel stop at the TA Travel Plaza in Knoxville, TN. We were greeted by Randy, the General Manager, and his staff, and CMA provided coffee and doughnuts for the riders. The morning was very brisk, so the coffee was much appreciated. Randy spoke with us for several minutes about how other travel plazas in the area have asked why TA was picked and his reply was his boss loves veterans, Randy himself is a veteran and management was directed to do whatever possible to make the riders brief stop as comfortable as possible. Randy, by the way, donned his leathers and rode with the pack from the TA Truck Stop.

After a flawless fuel stop and refreshments, it was off to Davey Crockett Truck Stop for lunch. Another Randy, General Manager of Davey Crockett, had a super idea to insure the fuel pumps were available only to the riders. He raised his posted fuel prices 20 cents higher than the local competition across the street, which caused every car coming in to turn around and cross the street. The truth of the matter was that the actual fuel price was 20 cents lower than the competition. For any rider that broke from the pack to fuel on their own because they thought the prices were too high...sorry about that. Also at this gas stop, we were greeted by Mayor Trent Crewe of Wytheville, VA who was prepared to ride the rest of the way into Washington DC with the Southern Route.

After lunch, we departed the TA Travel Plaza in route to the Virginia State line where we picked up our state Police escort. We hope the riders noticed the public information signs flashing on the interstate, welcoming Run for the Wall to Virginia and advising the motoring public to watch out for large groups of riders. Under escort, the riders arrived at the Wytheville Memorial Park for the afternoon ceremonies and presentations by Mayor "Trent". A proclamation was read declaring both May 21st and May 22nd, 2008 Laurie "Airborne" Clay day in Wytheville. Laurie has been the VA State Coordinator since the beginning of the Southern Route and has done a stellar job insuring that all activities and transit through the commonwealth of VA have been seamless. It is because of the efforts of Laurie that we all have a home away from home in a wonderful community called Wytheville, VA.

We would like to thank Mark Peterson, Chairman of the Veterans Committee, United Auto Workers, for the magnificent display of the Mack and Volvo trucks this year. One truck depicted a tribute to the American Veteran the other truck had a POW theme. One cannot adequately describe these magnificent vehicles, the pictures do better, but experiencing them in person is the best.

After the afternoon ceremonies, the riders departed to their various hotels to check in and proceed to the Moose Lodge for a spectacular dinner. During the meal, I, "Hawgwash", along with "Cowboy", "Tadpole" and "Hollywood", gave an impromptu presentation and greeting from Medal of Honor Recipient, Jack Lucas of Hattiesburg, Mississippi who spoke on camera from his hospital room. During the presentation, all the riders sat quietly and listened to Jack, shared some tears and a lot of laughter as "Hollywood" was given his new road name by Jack. If you want to know more about that interview, you need to contact at "Hollywood" at International Pictures FX and order a copy of the DVD. Jack Lucas has undergone several treatments of Chemotherapy over the past month. His most recent treatment was the morning after our taping. We are happy to report that Jack had the fastest recovery from this treatment compared with the others. He attributed that to the thoughts and prayers from all the RFTW participants and to the fact that several of us spent the evening with him and showed how much we cared for this National Hero. Jack is receiving the highest quality medical care and RFTW gave him the best medicine.

People in the Spotlight, Day 8

Laurie "Airborne" Clay - for your years of dedicated service to RFTW Southern Route as Virginia State Coordinator. If it wasn't for you and your perseverance, we may never have had the opportunity to discover Wytheville, our home away from home.

Citizens of Wytheville, VA - who have given us a home away from home for many years and it just continues to get better and better. We need to clone you and place your values in other cities throughout the nation as an example of true patriotism.

Special note - we would like to recognize Motel 6 of Wytheville, VA for an extraordinary act of kindness and goodwill. We had a rider who had checked in, was injured an unable to occupy his room. Joshua Rush of Motel 6 refunded the cost of the room in a heartbeat and also sent his prayers out for a quick recovery to the rider who is currently recovering from his injuries in Roanoke, VA.

Respectfully submitted by MSgt Steve Hill, USMC (Ret) "Hawgwash"


RFTW XX, Day 9 - May 22, 2008
Wytheville to Roanoke

Good morning RFTW XX, Day 9. After a good nights rest, it was off to Wytheville Memorial Park for our morning ceremonies. Breakfast was served to the riders which included sausage biscuits, low calorie donuts (there were holes in the donuts so the calories fell out...), pastries, coffee, juice and water. Our morning meeting was conducted and the day's announcements were made, group pictures were taken, and the riders awaited the arrival of the students from Spiller Elementary School.

At precisely 8:30 am, the children proceeded down the hill from their school, each waving flags as they assembled at the Memorial Park. The children watched the Wreath Laying Ceremony and then the kindergarten class sang "God Bless America" to a standing ovation. The 4th and 5th grade classes sang "Stand by Me" with solos by Haley and Emily. If these two performances did not touch your heart, you are obviously not capable of fogging a mirror. After the morning ceremony, the riders mingled with the children, passing out commemorative RFTW pencils, ride pins, and some riders even swapped their personal memorabilia with the students. Some of the riders had children placed on their motorcycles for a family photo opportunity. After our all too brief stay in Wytheville, the students gathered in the bleachers to give the riders a wonderful Wytheville send-off.

From Wytheville it was off to another of our sponsored schools, Montvale Elementary School, where we had lunch with the students. Each rider was escorted to a classroom where they sat at desks with the children, had lunch, shared stories and made new friends. After lunch, everyone assembled in the gymnasium for a presentation by the students. The students put on a wonderful production with patriotic music, and video clips of previous RFTW visits. We enjoyed the presentation of Military Flags by the children, then the Kindergarten and First Grade classes sang, "America" and "There are Many Flags in Many Lands". We all started getting a little teary even before the Second and Third Graders sang "Sing, America, Sing" and "We Love Our Country". By the time the Fourth, Fifth and Sixth Grades sang "We Celebrate America", Grateful to Be American", and "Mighty United", all of the riders were wiping away tears while standing and clapping. We all sang "This Land is Your Land" and "You're a Grand Old Flag" with the children. A particularly touching moment was when one little girl stood up to do her solo; you could tell that she was overwhelmed by all of the riders so her initial singing was so very quiet. You could hear a pin drop in the gymnasium and feel all of the riders silently rooting her on. Another soloist quietly stepped behind her and sang in her ear to help support her. By the end of the solo, this little girl was singing her heart out. Needless to say there was not a dry eye in the house. The children gave 20 flags to RFTW to be placed at the Wall in Washington, D.C.

From Montvale, under police escort, the riders took a scenic tour in route to the Salem Veterans Center and Homeless Shelter for dinner and visits with the patients. After dinner and visitations, the riders departed to their various hotels in preparation for Day 10, our ride into the Nation's Capitol and the formal end of Run for the Wall.

People in the Spotlight, Day 9

To the teachers of Spiller Elementary School and Montvale Elementary School - You do not earn the salary of a superstar or sports figure. You often spend your own hard-earned money to provide the students with the material they need and work many hours beyond the classroom to insure the students have a great education. Thank you for instilling patriotism in your classrooms and teaching your students about honor and respect for all veterans; past, present and future.

Respectfully submitted by MSgt Steve Hill, USMC (Ret) "Hawgwash"


RFTW XX, Day 10 - May 23, 2008
Wytheville to Roanoke

Good morning RFTW XX, Day 10. The riders are up extra early for departure of the final leg of Run for the Wall XX. After a mandatory riders meeting and breakfast at American Legion Hall it was off to our first fuel stop at Fuel City.

Back on the road to our final fuel stop, Loves Travel Center, Toms Brooks. After a mandatory briefing and fueling, the four-wheeled rolling circus along with the trikes and trailers were sent ahead as the riders prepared for the last 85 miles of RFTW XX. Excitement was in the air as the riders arrived in Alexandria, VA to the cheers of the crowd of Advance Team members and the Fuel Team. After the Southern Route finished staging their bikes, it was time to prepare for the arrival of the Central Route, who was approximately one hour behind by design.


People in the Spotlight, Day 10

The Virginia State police because they escorted the run from State line to State line. Your dedication to the safety and escort of Run for the Wall is deeply appreciated. We feel that you are part of the RFTW family and look forward to seeing each and every one of you next year. Be safe out on the roads and keep catching those "bad guys".

Run for the Wall Recap:

It has been twenty years since Run for the Wall started with a small group of grungy bikers, no money, no support and no schedule but with a solid mission in mind. That mission was to bring awareness to our POW's and MIA's. It all started with a vision of a single Marine Gunnery Sergeant, Retired, James Gregory. Little did "Gunney" know twenty years later the event that he started would be the premier cross-country motorcycle journey for veterans from all branches of the service, their families and their supporters. We salute you, "Gunney" for having the vision and for continuing to support this great cause of which you are the founder. We would like to dedicate RFTW XX, Southern Route to Gunnery Sergeant James Gregory, USMC (Retired).

For the riders, thank you for participating, especially the FNG's, you have now joined a "super class" of veteran riders who have made this journey before and we look forward to you returning next year bringing your FNG's. There are many people and groups that helped make RFTW the success that it is and we thank each and every one of you too. From the ordinary citizen standing on the roadway waving a flag to elected officials who accompanied us, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts. A stellar job by our advanced team, our "NASCAR" quality fuel team, our staging team, our road guards, platoon leaders, tail gunners, medical team, chase vehicles and our Chaplin Corps insured that each and every rider had a seamless journey across this great country.

We had the pleasure of having the Honorable Trent Crewe, Mayor of Wytheville, VA accompany us on our last three days of the journey. We salute you Mayor and wish we could clone you among the other leaders around the country.

After our arrival in DC, approximately 150 riders were escorted to the Marine Barracks, Washington, "8th & I" for the Sunset Parade. The riders were given the opportunity to see the best of the United States Marine Corps, including the Marine Corps Color Guard; the Marine Corps Band, "The President's Own"; the Marine Corps Drum and Bugle Corps, "The Commandant's Own"; the Marines of Company A and B, with highlights by the Silent Drill Platoon and the USMC Firing Battery/Body Bearers. After the performance, "Hawgwash" had the privilege of meeting the Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps and the guest of Honor, Emmy Award winning Actor, Mr. Gary Sinise who were presented 20th Anniversary RFTW Challenge coins. Other events for Friday evening included an evening ride to the Vietnam Memorial.

Saturday evening May 24, 2008 the riders gathered at the Arlington Assembly of God Church for a donated dinner by the congregation. Many thanks go to Pastor Reverend Rich Neubauer for dinner this evening. Pastor Neubauer and his church had also provided dinner on Friday, and breakfast and lunch on Saturday along with camping facilities throughout the weekend for the riders. An added feature from the church this year was a shuttle service that ran every half hour around the clock to the hotels, and various monuments and memorials on the DC Mall. Pastor, you have gone above and beyond the call of duty in support of RFTW XX.

It has been a spectacular 10-plus days, and we thank you for the opportunity to report our journey from Los Angeles to Washington, D.C. on behalf of RFTW Southern Route XX.

Respectfully submitted by MSgt Steve Hill, USMC (Ret) "Hawgwash"