May 29, 2011 - Return Journey

After last minute hugs and “see you next years” we headed home from Arlington. We had an uneventful trip, passing many familiar bikes along the way. We stopped at the Staunton Harley Davidson store to meet some riders who’d come from Wytheville to meet us. Unfortunately, when we were ready to leave one of the Harleys wouldn’t start. What better place to have a problem than in the parking lot of the repair shop. A couple hours later the rider was on his way back to Wytheviile. We all arrived home by late afternoon.

So now I’m home, the Mission ended, the bags unpacked, mowing to be done, the desk to shovel off, and the memories, mementos, pictures, and things ready to be reviewed, relived, and put away. I rode 6458 miles since riding out on May 5. Would I do it again? In an instant! It was extremely rewarding. I heard wonderful things about our community over and over again. I had rider after rider tell me they were considering relocating here. Many said they’d be back before next year’s Run. One even asked about scheduling a convention here. This community definitely continues to impress. Our warm Welcome Home is heartfelt and sincere – and the first many of these heroes have ever received. On their behalf I thank you so very very much! You are indeed very special to them all.

So the world’s longest welcome home parade is ended for another year. Be mindful of all the bikes passing thru in the next few days and weeks. Some of them will be your friends on The Run. Some will be those who’ll become friends on the next Run. Word travels fast. Be good to our visitors. You never know when nor where it’ll come back to you. I found it, for instance, in a little town of 500 in Alabama.

Enjoy Memorial Day. Spend time with your family. Fly the flag. Remember those not with their families. Remember Freedom has never been free. The Veterans paid the price for ours. The cost of our freedom is written on The Wall.

May 28, 2011 - Mission Accomplished

Today we concluded our mission. We rode into Arlington National Cemetery some 400 bikes strong. We entered through the front gates and entrance way, unlike other years. We rode in single file past the long rows of neatly arranged headstones, each one representing at least one American hero who paid the ultimate price for our freedom. I’m sure the other visitors to Arlington didn’t know what to make of our long procession of motorcycles. Each one was quieted, even the loud Harleys kept nearly silent as we were indeed on hallowed ground.

We saw the Guard of the Tomb of The Unknowns make his required 21 paces end to end, wait the required 21 seconds before each move, and resume his pace. In an unexpected change today the Guard on duty went into the Guard box for a while and was joined by another Old Guard member for a brief time. The rumor was that he had become overheated and had to retire to the Guard box to regroup and wet down his gloves to maintain his grip on his rifle. Many in attendance had never witnessed such before. But he resumed his pacing shortly and was replaced by the Changing of the Guard on the appointed hour – a ceremony we also witnessed.

Then they removed the existing wreath, removed one chain barrier, and our RFTW representatives assembled at the top of the stairs to begin the ceremony. The Commander of the Old Guard met them on the steps, had a few words of instruction, and then they marched down the steps, onto the truly hallowed ground of the actual tomb, presented the wreath, and returned up the steps. The whole thing took less than 10 minutes, but will last a lifetime in our memories. That is why we rode. Many wept significantly. All were affected

I had the distinct honor of walking both up to and away from the Tomb of the Unknowns with Sgt. Brian Mast, whom I mentioned yesterday. I should tell you that our bikes – and he rode in as a passenger on one – were parked on a rather steep hill nearly a half mile from the Tomb. It was a long walk, up many stairs, and quite strenuous for most of us. His pace was slower, but determined as Brian moved along. At one point I told him he was walking better on 2 artificial legs than I was on my real legs. He answered that that was because he didn’t get blisters. This young American Hero is indeed an inspiration to us all.

After the wreath laying we moved to the Lincoln Memorial for our group photo. It was the last time we’d all be together in a group. That was emotional. Many promised to return to Wytheville on their journey – and all said they’d visit us again in their thoughts!

Then we moved to The Wall. The Mission Accomplished plaque was presented and laid at the apex of The Wall. It was emotional. That presentation officially concludes the mission of RFTW 23. It is now history. But what a history!

I was honored to lay at The Wall a flag of the Blue Ridge Pepsi facility I’d been given to carry to The Wall. I also carried Maj. Bobby Jones’ poster to the panel on which his name appears and traced his name on The Wall. I thus fulfilled my promise. I feel close to him and hope to contact his family. At least they know he is not forgotten. I traced another name from The Wall for a friend. Many of the vets had a hard time getting to The Wall. Some could not get down there. Several were engulfed by other Riders as they broke down sobbing and unable to move forward for a while. One rider in particular froze up, sobbed heavily, and fell to his knees. The RFTW Family surrounded him, thus making him less visible, and comforted him until he was able to continue. He stood ram rod straight and saluted – with several others – in both directions of The Wall to respect those named there. It was hard for him, and for those of us who don’t fully appreciate his pain. Once Again, The Run heals. That’s why we rode.

I then visited Thunder Alley – an area off Constitution Ave, where vendors are set up to sell everything motorcycle or military. It’s a busy place. Then we returned to the hotels and dinner at the church. The Arlington Assembly of God offers barbeque ribs and chicken for all riders. They also furnish shuttle service, laundry, and allow camping on their grounds. It’s an amazing ministry they offer. And it’s muchly appreciated.

Then it was back to the hotel to hang out in the lobby. I received many wonderful comments about Wytheville. Many riders plan to return to visit us over the coming days and months. There is one military group which holds a bi-annual convention that is considering holding it in Wytheville. You never know what wonderful things might come from The Run.

Tomorrow we’ll ride back home. My head is swimming with the thoughts, emotions, visions, sights, and sounds of The Run. It will take me some time to process it all. I appreciate your following me. I have received wonderful comments from many folks about how it helped them explain The Run to those left at home. I am grateful for your support. I am extremely appreciative of how wonderful the Wytheville community has been of my ride. I hope it will pay dividends to our community for years to come. And I greatly appreciate the hard work of Rosa Jude and Justin Plaster in getting it all done!

May 27, 2011 - Post Script

Closing ceremonies have been concluded, 8th & I Marine Barracks ceremony rained out, and riders showered, in street clothes, hanging around the lobby swapping lies and reminiscing. But I had conversations tonight with four individuals that are important and meaningful enough to recount to you.

Upon arrival at the hotel we were greeted by Brian Mast. His story was told in Wytheville. He was severely wounded by an explosion in Afghanistan (I think it was) and lost both legs above the knees in Sept. ’09. He is truly an amazing young man. One story I heard about him was that 10 days after he reached the hospital a buddy went to visit him. He was not in his room. When the visitor asked the nurses’ station where he was he was told “If you can find him please tell us so we can get him to physical therapy”. Brian went scuba diving 10 months after his explosion. He was wearing shorts and using canes today when we arrived. He came out to thank each vet personally for their service – on two artificial legs, plates in his head, and rods and screws in his back! That is why we ride – although Brian told me he fully expects to make the ride himself one day!

I had conversations with three other riders who show an odd juxtaposition. I’ve mentioned two of them in earlier blogs. One is an 83-year-old rider who’s ridden from northern CA. He served in the Army in WWII. He has some interesting tales to tell. He is glad to have made The Run, found healing along the way, and told me the WWII Vets and the Viet Nam vets are very much alike, but they were treated very differently. He is already planning to do it again.

The third is an American Soldier during WWII who was captured and held by the Japanese for several years. He was made to build railroads while a POW. He too found healing on the Run and plans to do it again. After all, as he told me, “I’m only 81”. I hope I can do half as well if I reach his age!

The fourth is an American born citizen of oriental descent. During WWII his entire family was “interred”- locked up by our own government just because they were of Oriental descent. So they both suffered during the war. One was imprisoned by the Japanese government at the same time the other was imprisoned by our own government. They both found comfort on The Run even though their experiences were very different.

Four different men, from different generations, suffering from different injuries – but all finding (and giving) healing on The Run. That’s wh

May 27, 2011 - This Chapter Ends

We had a wonderful breakfast at the Salem VFW hall. Then there were awards presented to many folks. One recipient was Sgt. Dan Jesse, Virginia State Police, Ret. Sgt. Jesse has protected us as we rode for many years. He retired 12/31/10, but arrived early today to meet his many, many friends and ride on to DC with The Family. I should also point out that the new Trooper who took his position on the team that protects us got – and wore – his FNG badge. It was great to see Dan and have him ride with us! The FNG’s were instructed to turn their FNG badges upside down as they are now “official” Riders. Southern Route Coordinator Preacher Moore announced that he was departing from past protocols and naming Pam Cain and Keroni Forrester (two of our MIA Daughters riding with us, their Fathers are still missing in Viet Nam) as the Southern Route representatives to lay the wreath at Arlington Cemetery tomorrow. They were very surprised and it was all emotional. There was a standing ovation that lasted a long time. This is why we ride.

The running order was reversed today as the trikes and trailers left earlier than the rest of us two-wheelers. We had Platoon meetings, said our “Until we see each other agains,” (no one says goodbye as we aren’t ending it nor parting permanently, only for a time) and readied to depart Salem, VA. Many of us wore rain gear as the skies were threatening. But we managed to stay dry and ahead of the rain. We rolled out of Salem about 7:00AM. The two gas stops today were both donated. So we breezed thru them. At the afternoon stop we were given delicious peanut butter and jelly sandwiches by the Tree of Life Ministries Church. It was our last chance to be together as a platoon. There were business cards exchanged, hugs, and yes, tears too. Then we mounted up for the final 67 miles into Arlington. Traffic increased, but the Road Guards and State Police led us thru with no difficulty and we got into the Maymont University Parking lot before 2:00PM. All is well.

I rode a total of 6131 miles from Wytheville into the hotel today. It was wonderful! I highly recommend it to everyone! It is very exciting, emotional, and therapeutic. The friendships formed there are strong and long lasting.

Mission almost accomplished. We have a ceremony tonight and wreath laying tomorrow. But we are all safely here in Arlington as the Central Route arrived about an hour after us. Southern Route had almost 600 bikes and Central Route had over 400. So there are about 1000 motorcycles resting in Arlington tonight! We are almost done!

May 26, 2011 - You Made Me Proud

Wytheville yet again made me extremely proud to serve its citizens as Mayor. I have received wonderful compliments all day long! The wonderful large crowd lining the streets and filling Withers Park was back in full force today!

We had another very moving program presented by the students of Spiller Elementary. There were many riders – and local residents as well – moved to tears. Leigh Beamer did an especially fine job of “While the Band Is Playing Dixie”, Sydney Stephens did a magnificent job of “You Are Our Heroes”, and Audra White stole many hearts – and caused many tears – with her rendition of “Shenandoah”.

Main St was lined with people waiving and cheering as we rolled out of Town. And the Wytheville Fire Department had several flags –including the biggest one – flying as we crossed under Lovers Lane on our way out of town.

We rode to Montvale Elementary School where the students gave us a very good lunch and a great program. They received pins, stickers, pencils, and beads from the Riders. We rode on to the D-Day Memorial and then to the Salem VA Center. We were able to meet and talk to many of the residents and employees of the Center. There are amazing stories of what some of these American Heroes did to preserve our freedom! Sadly, many of these men and women receive only one visit a year – when The Run comes to see them. There were loads of pins, pencils, bumper stickers, and of course handshakes and hugs, given away. The Family came to see its own. One of the employees told me that the residents were asking her at breakfast yesterday if we had arrived yet. It was like kids at Christmas – the residents glad to have visitors, and the Riders glad to hug a hero.

Then it was off to the hotels and camping spots for a good night’s rest as we roll earlier than usual tomorrow in order to reach DC ahead of the Central Route.

I was pleased to have my 19 year old son, Tyler ride his bike with us again today. He’s ridden 11 years now, two on his own bike. He rode up front in First Platoon and handled himself very well. There aren’t many “crotch rocket” bikes on The Run and Tyler got some good natured ribbing from the 450 Aunts and Uncle he rode with today. But his heart is in the right place and seemed to enjoy the challenge and the experience.

I also wish son Chris a Happy Birthday today as I’m missing it as well. This adventure is nearly ended.

May 25, 2011 - Home At Last!

           We had a great day today. Weather was good, police protected our ride all the way, and we rolled thru some beautiful countryside. Chattanooga was in the rear view mirrors as we set our sites on Virginia – Wytheville in particular. We stopped for donuts and coffee donated at the gas stop in Knoxville, then on to Baileyton, TN for one more gas stop. We laid a wreath in a cemetery in Chattanooga where 18 unidentified soldiers from the Civil War are buried. A private group deiced to reclaim the place a few years ago. RFTW sold a patch to help with that fundraising. In large part as a result of that effort the cemetery is now a pretty, well-kept place and about a dozen of the men have been identified. RFTW gave the group $700 today to continue their efforts to identify the others.

          We saw many people on the overpasses and beside the route as we passed. It’s always impressive to encounter such support – and very much appreciated. In the Glade Spring, VA area we saw the damage caused by the recent tornado. But we also saw area fire departments with their large flags flying as we rode past. That they’d take time from their rebuilding to welcome us is especially touching. They continue in our prayers.

           As we got close to Wytheville the entire Run was greeted by a very large sign reading “Welcome Home Mayor Trent” on the last overpass before the exit. My minister, Brad Simpson, and an Eagle Scout, Doug Hogan, had arranged it. What a thrill! I appreciate it - but know I’ll hear about it from the Riders tomorrow. Several riders from Wytheville, including my son Tyler, met us in Bristol when we stopped at the Harley Dealer’s for lunch. He was allowed to ride in Platoon 1 back to Wytheville and reportedly did well. It’s not every day that a 19 year old would stop his activities to ride with a bunch of old folks like us. But he’s part of the family too.

           I was moved up to ride in the leadership position for the last 66 miles into Wytheville. I had Misty Pack as my passenger. She was the employee at the Holiday Inn 11 years ago when VA Coordinator Laurie Clay stopped to see if RFTW could get a block of rooms to stay here. Had Misty not done as she so capably does, RFTW might not have ever been here. She moved away thereafter and has never seen The Run arrive. Today she did – from a position of honor! And thereby became a biker chick for one day. It was very nice.

          As we came off the Interstate and into Wytheville, I was amazed to see so many people out cheering and waiving. It was grand! We had a good crowd in the Park for our ceremony. There were the two lovely Volvo trucks – truly works of art! Special music, recognition of my father-in-law, Fred Hendrick, presentations by The Run, and a lot of hugging, tears, and joking as this wonderful place welcomed home some of its family that had been away a while. This is indeed a blessed place to live! We are truly blessed to have this marvelous bunch of real American Heroes stop here year after year.

            Somehow the magicians at the Moose Lodge did it again and fed a steak dinner to somewhere near 600 people. There were the RFTW award presentations and the riders headed to the various motels, camp grounds and homes for a well-deserved night of rest. Tomorrow we ride to Montvale, VA, the D-Day Memorial in Bedford, VA, and back to the Salem VA Center for dinner. It’s hard to believe that on Friday we’ll reach DC and this adventure will end. It has truly changed me and I know it’ll be hard to tell the Run Family “See you later”. I can’t tell them goodbye.

May 24, 2011 - Closer and Closer

      Man, are we excited to be almost to Wytheville, VA! Tomorrow we’ll reach Withers Park about 4:00 PM. Hope to see you there! Pray for good weather!

                Today was another awesome day on The Run. We had a great breakfast at the Meridian, MS Agriculture Center. Our dirty laundry magically appeared, washed and folded, on the table where we left it dirty last night! We then rode 92 miles to the first gas stop, which was donated! Then we rode100 miles to Ashville, Al for the next gas stop. This is truly an amazing stop, It’s an extremely small town miles from anywhere. We stop because it’s a gas tank away from the last stop.  The town shows up with cold drinks, snacks, and hot dogs all spread out under the shade trees next to the Piggly Wiggly grocery store where we buy gas. It’s amazing and greatly appreciated!  And while I was there I was sought out by a gentleman who lives there, had been a part of the festivities there for several years, and has a grandson who attends George Wythe High School in Wytheville, VA.  It is indeed a small world!

                We were able to have lunch with the Veterans at the Tuscaloosa VA Center. It’s always a moving experience. Some of these brave men and women who have given so much have neither family nor friends to visit them. Thus they receive but one visit a year – from The Run.  We rolled in about 500 strong, descended on every ward and room we could, handed out greeting cards from various school groups, pins, flags, buttons, pencils, etc. just to let them know they were not forgotten.  I met an employee there from Virginia Beach, VA and a resident from Arlington, VA.  They were most appreciative of our visit.

  I also had the chance to be with a rider who made the trek all the way from CA to see a Vet he’d visited every year and written to frequently, only to learn today that the gentleman had passed away a few weeks ago.  It was a blow from which he didn’t rapidly recover.  He lost another friend and didn’t know until today.  The rider took it very hard. But the RFTW family took him aside, hugged him, propped him up, got him through it, and took him down the hall to form a new friendship with a new Vet.  And so the healing continues.

I also shared lunch with a rider who shared a story about being a FNG in 2009 who was allowed the privilege of riding into Arlington National Cemetery. (RFTW is the only motorized group allowed to do so.  They select 150 FNG’s from each Route to ride into Arlington Cemetery and up to the Tomb of the Unknowns where RFTW lays a wreath.)  When he did so, he encountered a woman whose son had been buried there two days earlier. It was a trying encounter for the rider as she was asking him things about her son’s death of which he had no clue, but in true RFTW fashion, tried to comfort her. He also shared with me the fact that he still feels guilt 35 plus years later for the fact that he was shipped home from his unit in Viet Nam three days before they were ambushed and most of the unit killed.  I know enough to know this is a common trait among combat troops and is called “Survivor’s Guilt”. I didn’t know what to say nor do, but put my arm around the rider, told him God obviously had something else for him to do, and comforted him the best I could.  At least it got him better to where he went into the wards to see the patients there.

 You never know when The Run will rise up to bite you.  Each rider is different. Each gets bitten at different times and places.  What leaves one rider unaffected can upset another for hours – or longer.  The baggage goes back 40 years for some.  It is not discarded lightly. But The Run can heal.  Just today I had a long time rider tell me he had to make The Run this year because he “needed what the ride gives” him. I am amazed by the number of times every day somebody comes to me, hugs me, and checks to see if I am ok.  It’s very emotional. But The Family is there to support. That’s why we ride. . You’ll see The Family greet one another by hugs, not handshakes.  They all have “Road Names” and may not even know one another’s real names. It matters not. They are Family.  And Family looks out for Family. That’s why we ride.

So look out Wytheville here we come!  I’ve now ridden 5447 miles since I left. I expect us to be 500 strong when we roll in to Town tomorrow. Do everything you can to let these American Heroes know you love them, thank them, appreciate them, and are there to help them in any way you can.  I can personally promise you that your investment will be repaid 100 times over! They deserve nothing less!

May 23, 2011

                Today was another good day on The Run. Weather continued to be wonderful.  We rode less than 300 miles total today, but had a wonderful time at the Jackson, MS Harley shop.  The owner is a Viet Nam Vet.  Each year he removes all the motorcycles from the shop, installs tables and chairs, lays out a delicious boxed lunch for all the riders, presents a wonderful, meaningful program, and cranks up the air conditioning so we can really cool off! The program included a Naval Band, “piping aboard” various dignitaries, (including a Congressional Medal of Honor recipient, 2 WWII Navajo Code Talkers, a Pearl Harbor Survivor, a Bataan Death March Survivor, and a MS State Representative, among others). It was very impressive. Eileen Shaffer Bailey (daughter of Doris & Edwin Shaffer, grew up in Wytheville, now practicing law in Jackson) and her office staff (Rose and Cheryl) came out to meet us too.  The riders were amazed that we had a “Wytheville girl” show up in Jackson.

                But around the Harley shop was even more amazing.  Two Huey helicopters met us as we crossed the LS- MS state border. There was also an Apache Attack chopper and a Chinook too.  They all landed at the Harley shop.  The Army Black Daggers parachute team jumped in just after we landed. There were weapons of all types from WWI to present day – tanks, amphioxus assault vehicles, etc.  Guns blazed and “dummy rounds” rolled out as howitzers, cannons, machine guns, etc, were demonstrated, it was quite a racket.  I imagine traffic passing on the interstate really did think war had broken out. There were rides in the Huey available for purchase.  But the Trail Of Tears was the most moving part.  There was a path thru the wooded area surrounding the store that was set up with re-enactors and camps, tents, battle field fox holes, etc.  It started with the French & Indian Wars, and ended with Viet Nam.  The Miniature Viet Nam Wall Exhibit was there near the end.  Some more tears were shed there too. There was a Vietnamese prison cell – commonly called The Hanoi Hilton -that was painful for many. It basically is a metal box about the size of a small truck container. It had no ventilation, no light, and no toilet. 16 – 18 men would be crammed into it and left for days sometimes. But after time for reflection we headed to Meridian, MS.

                It seemed that every overpass we encountered was lined with people waving flags and cheering. It was exciting. It’s also exciting to have a motorcycle police officer buzz by your elbow at 90 miles an hour as they closed down the road as we passed. It’s great not to have to worry about the traffic – only those flying cops!  We rolled into Meridian, MS Agriculture Center where we were treated to a wonderful catfish dinner, including banana pudding. And we were offered a wonderful free service for someone who’s been on the road 5 days.  The owner of a laundry mat had paired with the Christian Motorcyclists.  They offered us large nylon sacks. We wrote our name and phone number on the sack and filled it with our dirty laundry.  When we return for breakfast tomorrow our clean laundry will await us.  All for free!

                In earlier blogs I shared some of the pain and healing I’ve seen on The Run. So it’s only fair that I also tell you some of the better moments too. Here are 3 things that happened today that show the genuine care, concern, and love these folks exhibit for one another just like a family.

                I had a helmet snap break today. I bought a replacement at Jackson Harley Shop.  I went back to my bike to install it on the helmet.  The temperature was above 100 degrees so I took my helmet to the shade of a gas station to work on it.  I had been fiddling with the latch not more than 2 minutes when 3 people walked up and asked if I was having trouble. As I explained what I was doing, one of them picked up the parts, took the helmet from me, and installed the latch. With no help nor request by me.

                There is a bike on the Run that has no windshield and the rider has a small “Brain Bucket” type helmet that covers only the top of his head above the ears. He wears goggles.  The last couple of windy days have been a challenge for him.  Several of the older riders in his platoon told him at the end of yesterday’s ride that they’d been watching him struggle and decided he needed a windshield.  He told them he had reached the same conclusion and was going to buy one.  They then told him that they’d called ahead to the Jackson Harley Shop, found one in stock, and had it waiting on him to arrive today to have it installed. He had a new windshield when we stopped for dinner tonight!

                But by far the grandest “goody” happened at the Rider’s Meeting in Monroe, LA.  Each day there is a 50/50 raffle for the money, tee shirts, etc.  The first winning number called today was held by Laura Byrd of San Diego, a FNG. As she was being congratulated, her boyfriend, Active Duty Navy Medical Corpsman Scott Coffin came forward to. He explained that he was just back from his 6th Tour in Afghanistan, had made last year’s Run, found it to be very helpful to him, had talked about it nonstop, had been dating Laura 2 years , and told her the only way she’d ever understand it was to ride with him. So he had a question for her after she’d been around this bunch of military people/family for 5 days.  He then dropped to one knee, produced a ring, and proposed. Laura said yes.  But then she explained that they’d talked about marriage for some time, she was worried that Scott would redeploy, and they’d be apart. She understood how important The Run was to him.  So she had told 2 of their friends on The Run that she also had a ring in her bag and planned to propose to Scott on the steps of the Lincoln memorial when The Run photo is taken at the conclusion. Since there are several real life ministers riding with us they are looking at the “paperwork” of being legally married before we reach DC! How’s that for good news!

                Tomorrow it’s on to Chattanooga. And then we reach Wytheville on Wednesday afternoon.  I urge everyone who can to come to Withers Park Wednesday about 4:00PM when they roll in, and again Thursday morning (they’ll group by 7:00 AM and leave about 9:45 AM) to tell this bunch of true American Heroes how much we appreciate what they do, have done, and who they are.  Just say “Welcome Home” or “Thanks” and you’ll make them feel very good. Just line the street to wave, applaud them, or wave the flag.  We owe them that much!

May 22, 2011

                The Run is now officially 50% completed and it seems like just yesterday we were planning it all. Now we’re in the home stretch.

                It was heavy overcast and an extremely humid 78 degrees when we loaded the bikes this morning before 6:30 AM. There was a mild breeze blowing by the time the Church service began at 6:45 AM.  The speaker was “Ox”, a literal mountain of a man, sporting a Mohawk haircut, tattoos, and a beard.  To say Ox is a colorful character is a vast understatement.  He too has visited my office in Wytheville and so is familiar with us. Ox has a heart of gold, is a forceful speaker, and gave an inspirational message about God’s Warriors and His Coming again to call His people home. It was very moving.

                We rode 47 miles to Terrell, TX. It looked like the entire population of this small town turned out to meet us. They had sandwiches, snacks, and cold drinks for us.  Peanut butter and jelly was the favorite I think.  They also made several donations to The Run from various organizations.

                We had 2 donated gas stops today and one we paid for.   Our ranks swelled today as many people could ride only on the weekend. I expect our numbers today were well over 500 bikes. But there should be less tomorrow. I still think we’ll be 400 strong when we reach Wytheville.  The fuel crew (led by Wytheville’s own J.R. Grubb and staffed by John Dix, Tammy Grubb, and Rocky Wyrick, among others) has definitely developed the skill to fuel us in a hurry. They can fuel all 500 bikes in about 20 minutes.  They’d be even faster if pumps didn’t malfunction at times.  It’s a real art form and great to watch the process work.

                Tonight we made it to Monroe, LA.  We had police escorts in both TX and into LA. That helps tremendously.  With all the new people, the traffic, the construction, lane closures, etc., we had several bikes go down today.  Initial reports are that all riders are okay, but we’ll hear more in tomorrow’s Rider’s Meeting.

Tonight’s dinner was a Cajun dinner given by the Monroe Shriner’s in their hall. There was catfish, alligator, beans & rice, and jambalaya and more homemade desserts than I could list. It was very good!

Now it’s to the hotels and to bed as tomorrow calls. Keep us in your prayers.  We’ll be in Wytheville on Wednesday afternoon!

May 21, 2011

        Saturday was yet another wonderful day for traveling. We had a wonderful breakfast at American Legion Post 430 in Odessa, TX. The Riders meeting introduced a large number of FNG’ . Many folks can ride only on weekends so numbers swell.

        We returned to the Permian Basin Memorial. It’s not nearly so foreboding in daylight, but still very powerful and inspirational. All the bikes and many riders were blessed by the ritual ceremony of a real American Indian Chief burning sage and in full head dress and costume. He is an Army vet. He performed a very moving Indian Ceremony invoking the blessings of the 4 winds and Mother Earth to protect us on our important journey. In honor of RFTW they unveiled today a new stone tablet at the Memorial. It reads: “Not everyone who lost his life in Viet Nam died there. Not everyone who came home from Viet Nam ever left there.” In view of last night’s events there, today’s stories and conversations, no truer words can be said. This is why we ride.

       104 miles later we rolled into Colorado City, TX, a town of 4000. Most of them turned out to line our route into and out of Town and to host our lunch at the Railhead Building there- a steak dinner no less! And there was a program presented by the Colorado Middle School that was outstanding. Even on a Saturday these kids came out to welcome us. I was able to give the Wytheville lapel pins and Virginia Is For Lover’s pencils. They also presented plaques to 4 local American heroes there today. A school child told the story of each man’s military background and awards. An 81 year old man even rode his motorcycle 20 miles to receive his honor today. That is why we ride. A survivor of Iwo Jima was presented a plaque today too. That is why we ride.

       We had 2 donated gas stops today, which were muchly appreciated. I don’t know the donor, but may learn more at tomorrow’s Rider’s Meeting. With today’s prices around $4.00 a gallon it is a welcome gift indeed!

      We rode 238 more miles into Grand Prairie, TX. We rode thru the Dallas area. Even on a Sat. the traffic was quite a challenge. I’ve heard that as many as 5 bikes went down but cannot confirm that. We’ll learn more in the morning. It was hot and very humid, but we arrived behind the thunder storms and did not get wet. Several organizations set up tents in the host hotel lot and fed us dinner – hot dogs, hamburgers, meat balls, and lots of cold water! It was great!. I am sure that all riders were in bed by 10:00 PM as we were all tired and tomorrow waits. In a stroke of luck, since I have no roommate these last few days I drew the single bed room. That meant I got a king sized bed and Jacuzzi suite! I can’t tell you how wonderful it was to have the water soothe all the road kinks, do my posting, packing, and organizing, and be in bed by 9:30! I might even catch up on the 3 hours we’ve lost since heading East from CA!

       I’d be remiss if I didn’t tell you at least a bit more about last evening’s visit to the Memorial. I talked to the rider today and received his permission to tell his whole story – in the hopes that it’ll help someone else he said. He was told nothing about what to expect when coming home from Nam. He got married in large part to avoid the draft. He was drafted anyway. He said being in Nam was easy. Coming home was much worse. He said he stayed drunk most of the time in Nam and fired machine guns from choppers – although that was not his job. He said killing the enemy was easy when he was drunk. He had a family farm and cows when he shipped out. They were the most important things to him. He longed to return to farming. He landed in Seattle in 1968 wearing his uniform. Immediately upon entering the terminal he was spat upon. He didn’t know what to think. On his way to the bathroom to clean off his uniform he was spat upon again and called “Baby Killer”. He instinctively attacked his attacker. As he said, the US Government had taught him how to kill people and he felt he was back in Nam. He indeed would have killed his attacker but for being pulled off him by a buddy and some police.

       He was met in the airport by his parents, his wife, and 8 month old son he’d never seen. He said he felt nothing. Numb. No one talked in his family. Some miles later he asked his Dad how the cows were doing. His Dad told him they’d sold both the cows and the family farm. He was devastated. They’d not written him to avoid upsetting him. They’d taken the money and bought 2 houses next door to each other – a rental and one for the wife and baby. He’d been “home” less than 10 minutes when the rental tenant next door knocked on the door. The rider opened it and the tenant told him he was in love with the rider’s wife and they had a problem. The Rider told him that if he saw the tenant the next day the tenant had a real problem that would be fatal. Not knowing how to deal with his feelings the rider went to the local police chief, a family friend. He was a Vet and he called in a couple of the rider’s buddies. Short version is that they helped him through it, he stayed married for 24 years, had 3 children, and somehow managed. The closest buddy who helped him  was sent back to Nam later, died there, and it was his Father who helped the Rider find his name on The Wall. If that doesn’t move you nothing will. Last night, when the Rider completed his tale, he was upset and crying. Other riders surrounded him hugged him, and made sure he was ok. His bike was next to mine last night. As we saddled up for the return trip to motels he said to me: “I have no idea where that came from. I’ve never spoke in public before”. This morning he told me that he spent most of last night talking to “friends” he met – several trained counselors. It helped him. He hopes it helps someone else. This Ride is about healing. That’s why we ride! I told you it was intense. It took me 24 hours just to be able to relay in coherently. This journey is very emotional for everyone. That’s why we ride. Keep us in your prayers.

May 20, 2011 - An Emotional Day

          I write today’s post at 11:30 PM. I have just gotten to motel room, not exactly ready to put into words today’s events as the tears flowed several times today.

          We started with breakfast at the VFW Post in Las Cruces. Morning meeting included a MIA in Nam from nearby, and a young man killed yesterday in Afghanistan. We laid a wreath at the Las Cruces Memorial. There is a statue there commemorating the Baton Death March in WW II. It includes actual footprints in the sand made by some of the actual survivors. It was very moving. Then I met a WW II Ranger, 90 years old, in his uniform, there to tell the Viet Nam vets that he was sorry for what the country did to them upon their return and that they were doing the right thing by riding to The Wall to remember all the lost and fallen. There were lots of tears and hugs.

           We had lunch at the Van Horn, TX Convention Center supplied by a local church. It’s a town smaller than Wytheville, but very friendly and supportive. The hot dogs and all the trimmings were great!

Then we rode into Odessa, TX having 2 donated gas stops en route. Odessa, TX is home to Ray & Kay McDowell and their business, Rays Equipment. Many of you will remember them in Wytheville last year when Ray “Too Tall” was Southern. Route Coordinator and “Too Small” rode with him. They gave us all a fantastic chicken dinner complete with homemade ice cream. And they must have fed nearly 800 people. It was grand!

I’m still having trouble sending video via my cell phone. Sprint tech rep John Sellers came to Ray’s Equipment when we arrived and worked on the phone for a couple of hours. Talk about service! We hope it’ll work better now and I can get you the videos to understand better what I’ve experienced. I am grateful for his help.

The real emotional part came tonight. About 100 riders left downtown Odessa about dusk. We rode to the Permian Basin Memorial for a night time candlelight service. The Memorial consists of an actual Huey helicopter positioned for a typical evacuation landing Nam with the tail down and front elevated. The rotors on top are frozen, but the tail rotors are not. On windy nights like tonight the tail rotors spin and the sound is as eerie as real life. The ground is sandy and covered in Elephant grass – just like in Nam. The forward light of the chopper shines on 3 soldiers, 2 wounded, carrying a 3^rd more gravely wounded man toward the chopper. I talked to 3 men there tonight who told me that’s exactly what they did in Nam – swoop down hurriedly to evacuate the wounded and dead. They assured me it was extremely realistic.

 

Several of the riders were visibly shaken immediately upon arrival. Many others were touched. I had the opportunity to find the name of Marine Capt. Ronald W. Forrester of Odessa on the Wall there. He is the Father of Karoni Forrester who’s riding with us again this year and visited Wytheville last year.. He is still missing. That’s why we ride.

There was a very moving candlelight POW ceremony there. At the conclusion anyone who wished to speak did so. It was extremely difficult to hear some of the hurt these people have endured. It will take me some time to get into words that might make some small understanding possible, but not now.

I can tell you that there was a lady there who spoke of her son’s death in Afghanistan in 2007 - making her a Gold Star Mom. His body was flown into a large airport (I think she said Dallas) in January since there was no flight closer home. The Patriot Guard Riders met his flight @ 2:00 AM and rode their flag adorned motorcycles in the cold for 2 days to get him home for burial. That’s why we ride.

And there was a rider who said to the group that this was his first trip to The Wall. As he held his candle in the night and listened to the remarks, he realized the wax was burning his hands – as the tears were burning his eyes, and the anger, hatred & resentment burning his heart. He decided tonight to focus on the wax, transfer the hurt to the wax, take it to The Wall, and leave it there. So he felt his healing start tonight.

But there was one rider who told a very emotional story about what happened to him upon his return. It was gut-wrenching to hear his pain, hurt, anger, and mistreatment. I hope to relate it to you later. But I can report that he said he was returning to The Wall this trip with his “Band of Brothers” because he knew he had to face his demons. Sleep does not come easy tonight. I can tell you that he told us that he had a good buddy, who was a large part of his recovery, who later died in Nam and is on The Wall. This rider went to The Wall to find him. He didn’t know how to do so. So he asked a volunteer worker there to help him look up his buddy and locate his name on The Wall. When the WWII Volunteer starting asking about the name he sought it became clear that the Volunteer was upset. As the details unfolded it turned out that the volunteer worker was the Father of the Name on The Wall. He volunteered 1 day a month and it just happened to be that day. They formed a friendship that lasted until the Father died a couple of years ago. The Father lived in Virginia. The healing continues. But sometimes it’s raw.

We stage in 6 hours. Keep us in your prayers as we visit the Permian Basin Memorial again tomorrow and then ride to Grand Prairie, TX. The Chaplains and Counselors traveling with us need all the help they can get. We rode 363 miles in beautiful sunshine today. I’ve now ridden more than 4200 miles since leaving Wytheville. 350 more await tomorrow.

May 19, 2011 - A Long & Trying Day

                We had a wonderful breakfast supplied at the hotel this morning by McDonald’s Corp. The day was sunny and 30 degrees lower than normal – a comfortable 73 degrees.  The Central Route had to delay their departure as they woke up to 2” of snow today.

                Morning meeting featured a story about a MIA in ‘Nam from Tolleston, AZ and an Afghanistan casualty this year. There was a rider introduced to the group very reluctantly. I had the good fortune to talk with him yesterday but did not learn enough about him. He is riding cross country “all the way” for the first time.  He is 83 years old and a WWII veteran.  There was also introduced a rider who was a POW in Japan in WWII.  The healing crosses generations! These are truly remarkable men. Their stories would not have been known nor told, but for the conversations of other riders.  There also was a local media personality whose brother was killed in Afghanistan who was there to thank the Viet Nam vets because he said they were the first to step up to help his family deal with his brother’s death. So the emotion began early.

                We put in long mileage today in harsh winds and blowing sand.  We rode 102 miles to the first gas stop, 105 to the next (which was donated), 122 to the next, and then 77 miles into Las Cruces, NM.  We had to ride staggered part of the way to stay safe. It was a bit grueling.  Unfortunately we suffered our first (and hopefully only) accident.  I don’t know what happened, but a rider went down. The report is that he suffered no broken bones, no head injury, and will be fine. His bike however is another story. He is in our prayers.

                I learned this morning that last night the hotel had more people than rooms due to a computer problem.  They put mattresses in conference rooms and several people slept there. Some riders went down the street to a church where they slept inside the church with a number of homeless folks. And I was told of a security guard who worked the night shift, had no family, and just gave his house keys to a bunch of riders and told them to make themselves at home – and he knew none of them!  The Ride touches people in lots of ways!

                Tonight dinner was at the Harley Davidson Store.  Lunch today was given by the Wilcox, AZ Elks Lodge.  We eat pretty well!

                I received another treasured and totally unexpected gift tonight. A California rider was touched by Wytheville when he was there on The Run a few years ago. He set out on a mission – which took a couple of years to complete tonight. He presented me with a flag lapel pin that has been in Viet Nam, Iraqi and Afghanistan.  What an honor! I am grateful beyond words. I shall always treasure it!

                If you’re following my Face Book you saw this earlier today. But in case you’re not I want to share another surprise the AZ Coordinator, Jerry McNeely arranged for us this morning.  We were riding along the interstate in a tight formation  when 2 fully armed Apache helicopters came screaming up from behind us on opposite sides of the interstate about 200 feet above the ground! They streaked along the entire parade of bikes and when they got to the head of the column they roared straight up at an extreme angle of attack showing the rotor blades to us.  For the better part of an hour they criss-crossed our formation following us about 100 miles into the gas stop.  It was absolutely awesome!  I did not know until today that riders on moving motorcycles could “high five” guys screaming by in helicopters, but I think that’s what I saw today!

                We stage tomorrow @ 7:00AM and ride 350 miles to Odessa, TX. Keep us in your prayers.

May 18, 2011 - And Then There Were 2

                The 4:15 alarms sounded, bikes were packed, breakfast eaten hurriedly, rain gear put on, and the bikes rolled. Both Routes staged in a steady rain and 53 degrees this morning. The wetness came from inside too as emotions ran high. There was the story of the 5/18/68 (42 years ago today) MIA.  Taps played by a lone bugler in the rain. Prayers by the Chaplain corps, recognition of the FNG’s (people making The Run for the first time) and the posting of the colors by the Rancho Cucamonga Fire Department.

                And then with all the colorful rain suits, we rolled out looking like a spilled bag of jelly beans.  The Central Route rolled out first, followed by the Southern Route 20 minutes later. I, of course, am riding the Southern Route back to Wytheville and on to DC.  I understand the Central Route ran into snow. We ran out of the rain after 50 miles or so. We then had sunshine, very high winds, and blowing sand reducing visibility. We ran side by side, staggered, and even single file in order to cope with the conditions. We were very grateful for the assistance of the Rancho Cucamonga, CA Police; the CA Highway Patrol, the US Border Control, and the AZ State Patrol as we rode thru.

                The first gas stop proved uneventful. The fuel crew will get better, as will the riders.   But it’s impressive to see the artistry and order that is the chaotic refueling of 300 or 400 bikes. After pumping the gas at the first stop we staged (lined up in formation) at the Spotlight 29 Casino. They were not open, but opened just to make restrooms available  and furnish water to us.  It was not as hot as usual – only 80 as we rode thru the desert.

                Lunch was furnished by the Town of Blythe, CA where I met the Mayor. They had a wonderful program for us, the entire Town lined the street as we rode thru this small rural town. And they donated $3000.00 to The Run, an outstanding show of support.

                Upon arrival in Tolleson, AZ this evening we were hosted to dinner by the Golden Corral restaurant company.  It was wonderful.  The host hotel sports tents pitched next to the pool and in the parking lot as we bed down for the night.    

                I was afforded yet another honor today as I departed Rancho Cucamonga.  I have accompanying me a poster telling the story of Maj. Bobby M. Jones, M.D. He is one of the 140 MIA’s who are being remembered on The Run.  Bobby is from Dalton, GA.  He received his medical training at the Medical College of GA in 1971.  He joined the Air Force in 1972. On November 28, 1972, he was flying backseater in a F4D Fighter Bomber carrying medical supplies into DaNang, S. Vietnam.   20 miles south of DaNang they were asked to switch to DaNang for landing instructions. They were lost on radar and remain missing today. In August 1997, the Joint Task Force for Full Accounting excavated a crash site thought to be Bobby’s. No evidence linked this site to Bobby. The site is still under investigation.  In 2006, the family was notified that the site would be revisited in April 2007. It was then rescheduled for June/July 2008.  On Nov. 28, 2008 (36 years after the crash) a blood chit correlated to Bobby was received from the crash site. We know that both passengers were killed. Additional excavation in May/June 2010 uncovered no additional information.  Bobby is the only physician still missing from the Vietnam War.

His family still waits for answers.  We will never forget.  As I carry his story and his picture to The Wall I will remind people of Bobby – and all the missing and killed in action.  We ride for them.

 Bobby is listed on The Wall on Panel .01 W line 093.

May 17, 2011 - The Mission is about to Begin

                Emotions ran high today and especially during the ceremony at HQ hotel.  There was the BBQ dinner supplied by the local VFW & Am Legion, served by the RFTW Officers, Board of Directors, and dignitaries.  There were recognitions of some FNG’s just back from Afghanistan.  Remarks by 2 DuPont Corp representatives, one of whom is the inventor of the chemical compound used in today’s body armor by our troops. To say they were well received is an understatement. There was some rousing patriotic music provided by some veterans who were finalists in “America’s Got Talent” in Las Vegas. But the highlight of the program for most of us was the introduction of Tim Chambers (I apologize if have his name wrong as we were surprised by his appearance.)  He is an active duty Marine who for several years has stood at attention in his “dress blues” to salute both Central and Southern Routes as they arrive in Arlington – standing at attention maintaining the salute continuously for several hours.  He is just back from active duty, has been hospitalized, has a damaged right arm, a broken right hand, and the tip of an IV could be seen protruding from under the sleeve of his tee shirt.  The riders were visibly moved, as was he. He will be riding in a chase vehicle, but will be “going all the way” on the Southern route.  So please take time to meet this genuine American Hero when he comes to Wytheville on May 25.  He is one impressive young man!

                The patches and pins have been sewn on, the bags are packed and loaded on the bikes, and the 4:15 AM wake up calls placed.  It will be a long, exciting day tomorrow.  Central Route departs at 7:15 AM and Southern Route @ 7:30AM.  It’s raining as I write this and we expect rain most of the way tomorrow.  Central Route is expecting 30 degrees and snow.  This journey is not for the faint of heart. But we ride for those who can’t so we have the easy part.  Keep us – particularly the leadership, Road Guards, escorts, etc. – in your prayers. Tonight’s prayer service and blessing of the bikes was most impressive.

                I am happy to report that Gary Swope, the rider injured in a crash yesterday, was reported tonight to be doing well. He is hospitalized in Phoenix with 2 broken legs, has to have pins placed in both legs, but has no brain trauma and remained conscious throughout the ordeal.  Our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family.

                I am also happy to report that we think we fixed the problem with my cell phone that prevented some of my photos and videos from being posted. Hopefully you’ll soon see more of what we’ve experienced in the last few days.

                “0 dark thirty” awaits. This Mission is about to launch.

May 16, 2011

                It was cool but sunny today. Some of us visited cycle dealer’s shops. Some slept late. Some did laundry. But all of us made it to RFTW Headquarters hotel to buy patches and pins, decals, and get registered. It was “old home week” as we saw many friends and long time buddies. It was good to see the family gathering for the mission is at hand.

                I had the opportunity to introduce Pam Jones and Robert Hurley of Wytheville to James “Gunny” Gregory, one of the 2 Founders of RFTW.  He gave a brief history of RFTW which I hope to post shortly as a video.

                It was inspirational to see a double amputee (above both knees) here to ride his bike East for the 4^th or 5^th time.  Those of us able bodied have no excuse not to give it our best when “Stumpy” (his road name) has made the Run several times!

                Seeing the determination, dedication and spirit first hand makes it nearly tangible. Tomorrow is for last minute equipment checks, packing and loading the bikes, and mentally and emotionally preparing for the Ride. There were tears today.  And we haven’t even started!

                The risk we face was brought  front and center again today when in a meeting it was announced that a long time rider who was unable to “go all the way” this year, but who had been with us today, was involved in a serious motorcycle accident some 3 hours after he left us headed home.  Our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family.  Just another reminder that we ride for those who can’t.

Arriving at the Beginning

We rode 105 miles into Ontario, CA today, about 50 miles of which was in the rain. We made out fine, but got a little cold and wet. The sun was shining by the time we rolled into the RFTW headquarters hotel. We found several friends waiting for us and several more rode in while we were there. It was good to arrive safely and see others who did so too. Registration, orientation, and meetings start tomorrow.

Some of us need to visit the repair shops tomorrow. And we’ll do laundry before heading East too. But final plans are in “go” mode now as final check list items are being done.

I’ve now ridden 3038 miles total. The planning, mapping, and adjustments made by Carl Hinkle and Bob Atwell has made it seamless and easy. They did all the hard work so all I had to do was follow the tail lights in front of me. There were 11 bikes riding together today. And Pam and Robert joined us here as well. They shipped their bike and flew out here and have had a couple of days to see the area.

May 14, 2011 - Happy Anniversary

I celebrated my 23^rd wedding anniversary today. Unfortunately, I was 3000 miles away from my dear wife. But in true RFTW family style, we all wished her a happy anniversary by cell phone tonight. I hope we’re in the same place together next year.

I rode to Mission Bay this morning and did a bit of site seeing there. I took in a CBS taping of some skate boarding that was pretty interesting. I got back to the hotel about 1:00PM. We rode over to the Barron’s house about 3:30PM. They followed us back on our bikes, which we parked at the hotel. Then we rode in Bob’s former truck (which he sold to a neighbor who let him borrow it back to haul us around) back to his house. We did laundry, ate snacks, had a wonderful lasagna dinner, and were delivered back to hotel by Laura Barron. There were 12 of us in the truck upon return!

Once again we had a wonderful evening of fun. The 4 other Wythe County riders joined us today and were able to enjoy the Barron’s hospitality too.

Tomorrow we have breakfast at the American Legion Hall in San Diego. I am told to expect a feast and wonderful support for the mission. Then we ride North to Rancho Cucamonga, CA. The fun part of our journey is about to end. We are starting to focus on the reason for this ride; the pressure of riding side by side in formation, the emotions, and the tension that awaits us.

At the Barron’s home tonight I heard stories of injuries suffered in Viet Nam, the true “Killing Fields”, buddies left behind and severely wounded, and the mistreatment suffered by “our boys” upon their return from Nam. I’ve spent 3 nights listing to a double Purple Heart recipient who turned down the Silver Star because a buddy deserved it more, who knows of 53 kills he made as a sniper in Nam. I’ve heard of his family problems, his difficulty in adjusting to civilian life, and his struggles. I had one person tell me that “everybody says I’m crazy but my psychiatrist says I’m ok”. I heard of the Commandant of the Marine Corps going out of his way to arrange an Air Force enlisted man’s flight home to visit a relative who undergone cancer treatment. And we talked about the fact that 5 men in the same block of the same tight knit neighborhood are now undergoing or have undergone radiation for prostate cancer. Could it be Agent Orange? They all served in Nam about the same time and in generally the same area. Too much of a coincidence for me. But that’s why we ride – for those who can’t!

Friday the 13th - Another Lucky Day for Us!

                We were able to sleep a bit later than usual this morning. But most of us awoke any way as we’re now accustomed to doing so.  We ate a continental breakfast at the La Quinta Inn where we’re staying.  Then several of us rode to get the oil in our bikes changed.  We found navigating San Diego traffic a bit more challenging than Wytheville’s!  And garage rates a bit higher as well.  We’re starting to plan our return journey.  But not before another wonderful evening @ The Bonner’s!

                After completing the oil change I rode over to Coronado Island. I visited the Hotel del Coronado built in the 1800’s.  It’s a famous landmark and extremely impressive. I also walked on the beach and stuck my fingers in the Pacific Ocean.  It was overcast and cold so I did not get my feet wet, electing to keep my boots on!  I rode back to the hotel in late afternoon. We all went our separate ways today but returned to the hotel in time to go to Bob & Laura’s.

                We rode our bikes to “Big Bob’s” about 5:00PM.  Even though she was trying to keep it a secret, word leaked out that it was Laura’s birthday. We sang Happy Birthday to her much to her chagrin as she really didn’t want anyone to know.  I also realized I misspelled their name in my earlier posts. Bob and Laura are the Barrons.  I apologize for the error. But it is awful hard to get a straight answer out of them! They are the most patriotic, friendly, generous, loving people I’ve ever met.  They treated us to wonderful snacks, drinks, and bratwurst and chicken on the grill tonight with all the trimmings. Their children and their spouses joined us tonight, as well as the neighbors who came last night, plus a few more! It was grand!  More storytelling, jokes, back slapping, hugs, and camaraderie.  We appreciate them so very much! I can’t wait for them to come back to Wytheville so we can return the favor!

May 12, 2011

                Some of us forgot to set our clocks back an hour when we crossed another time zone.  So some of us (names not disclosed to protect the not-so-innocent) arose @ 4:30 AM thinking it was 5:30AM.  Needless to say, we were all up by “o dark thirty”!  We managed to kill some time, but still cleaned up the bikes, packed them all, ate breakfast @ McDonald’s down the road, and had kickstands up and rolled @ 7:15 AM.

                We rode thru some beautiful, open country with not much traffic. Unfortunately as we left Gila Bend, AZ we passed an accident scene that reminded us again that Freedom never has been free and everyday men and women put their lives on the line to protect us.  Details were sketchy but 2 Border Patrol Agents were killed in a train collision with their truck. We saw dozens of BP vehicles speeding to the site, and 2 helicopters hovered to evacuate/transport the injured. About an hour later we passed thru one of the numerous checkpoints.  One of the agents to whom I spoke told me one of the killed agents was from that check point.   Their families are in our prayers.

                At one gas stop we encountered some Marines. One of them grew up in Hampton, VA and one of them was celebrating his last day in The Corps. We thanked him for his service and wished him well. They also got pins!

                We rode into San Diego and checked into the hotel.  We then rode to Bob & Laura Bonner’s home. They are Bob Atwell’s relatives (as is Laura’s Mom Selma) and he’s a retired Marine. Talk about a warm welcome!  They turned their entire house, manicured yard, and garage into a red white and blue welcome center. There was plenty to eat, snacks of every description, and any liquid refreshment known to man available for us.  Several neighbors, mostly retired military came to welcome us too.  Bob cooked wonderful beef brisket on the grill and we spent several hours reminiscing (Bob, Laura, & Selma have all been to W’ville – last year when The Run arrived), telling stories, and meeting new friends. It was great!  Laura and a neighbor who had a van that ferried us all back to our hotel about 10:00PM.  What a wonderful way to relax!

May 11, 2011

It was 48 degrees when we packed up the bikes this morning in Las Cruces, NM.  During breakfast we met a retired Marine who’d been to Quantico, VA while in service and had served 2 tours in Afghanistan. He is in Las Cruces as an instructor to police and Homeland Security officers in tactical training and survival skills. He was most interesting to talk with and whole heartedly supports our journey and cause. We gave him RFTW and Wytheville pins before we left.

                We rode in sunshine all day. We stopped for lunch in Tucson, AZ and made it on to Gila Bend, AZ where we stopped for tonight. We’ve now ridden about 2500 miles and thru a total of 10 states – VA, NC, SC, GA, AL, MS. LA, TX, NM, & AZ.  My bike showed 100 degrees when we stopped today after 410 miles. Tomorrow we plan to make San Diego.

                We checked into an old style motor court motel and walked down the street to an Italian restaurant for dinner. We spent some time by the pool before retiring early for tomorrow’s ride. Kick stands are set to go up @ 7:30 AM.

                We talked tonight about the 140 posters being carried to The Wall this year on The Run. Each one is the life story of someone missing in Viet Nam. The families have come forward to ask us to make sure they are not forgotten. Each rider who mounts one of the laminated weather proof posters on his/her bike has to be going all the way, has to keep it displayed the entire ride, and collectively leave the poster at the base of the panel on The Wall containing that name in a  special ceremony on Saturday, May 28. This is almost single handedly the result of the efforts of Karoni Forrester, whose own Father is still missing. Karoni has been in Wytheville on The Run, and will be again this year.