Category: President Messages

It seems like yesterday that I was writing about how winter had settled in in south PA.  Now with summer upon us, there are so many outdoor activities to choose from; car shows, fly fishing, festivals supporting our volunteer fire departments, and soon it will be time for the apple harvest festivals.  Hunters are already lining up for their annual deer and elk tags.  Like so much of the country, we are seeing unsettled weather with daily air quality alerts from the wildfires burning in Canada.  We remain busy though, getting plans moving along for next year and beyond.  I hope summer brings peace and happiness to you and yours. July is the month dedicated to celebrating our nation’s independence and freedom.  July 4th, like so many other dates, has a very special meaning for our nation.  I hope you were able to spend some time celebrating our nation’s independence.  The clock continues to countdown; as I write this, we are 310 days out from KSU for Run 2024.

Congratulations to our 2024 RCs, ARCs and RGCs!!  We know you will do your best throughout the year as you plan for RFTW 2024.

All our leaders, including members of the BoD, are non-compensated volunteers.  That sounds simple, but reality shows us it is quite complex.    I guess I am trying to share with you that RFTW, and accomplishing all that goes into an RFTW mission, is quite complex.  That said, the BoD and your volunteer leadership is dedicated to the Mission; we hope you continue to remain so.  We are always looking for better ways of doing business; if you have suggestions, please submit them to one of the board members.

Thank you to all who have and are submitting AARs.  They make a difference.  Each AAR is reviewed by both the BoD and the route leadership.  In reading many of the AAR’s, especially those from FNGs, I’m glad we received so many responses.  While we received a lot of good feedback from many riders, reading the FNG AARs was enlightening.  One thing many FNGs expressed was an appreciation to experience and learn the mission and focus on riding the RFTW way.    FNGs need to experience the camaraderie, the healing, the meeting and making of new friends that go along with riding in the pack.  They need to develop an understanding of “We Ride For Those Who Can’t”.  FNGs, like all riders, need to experience the care and concern our PLs demonstrate, they need to feel the warm embrace of RFTW.  They need to learn the RFTW way.  And we need to continue to ensure that each FNG experiences the Run as they are supposed to do.  That is one of the reasons FNGs are not allowed to participate on special teams.  They need time to learn the RFTW mission and truly experience the healing we bring.

As we review RFTW 2023 and prepare for 2024, we are also looking at RFTW 2025.  We plan on making 2025 a special year; it’s too early to release any details but suffice it to say part of our 2024 Back to Basics planning is in preparation for RFTW 2025.  Stand by for more info.

One aspect we can all assist with is helping our chase trucks.  They perform a great job of helping our riders in the event of a breakdown.  One thing I learned recently is that different brands, and even models, of motorcycles should be strapped to a trailer differently.  If you were to strap a Honda Goldwing in the same way you might strap a Harley, you could cause significant damage to the Goldwing.  It is important for each rider to know and understand how to strap down their bike or trike.  If your bike requires a special strap, please don’t expect our chase trucks to carry that strap.  For example, many models of pre-2018 Goldwing’s require the use of a loop-strap that wraps around the triple-tree.  These loop straps are then connected to the rachet straps.  If you use rachet straps across the handlebars of a Wing, you could break the handlebars.  And it is nearly impossible correctly wrap a rachet strap around the triple tree.  Same issue with the using rachet straps on the crash guards on a Wing.  The crash guards are attached to the Wing using standard bolts instead of hardened bolts.  While this hasn’t been an issue on the Run, there are many reports from Honda owners of the bolts breaking when using rachet straps on the crash guards.  Bottom line:  it is the bike owner’s responsibility to know how to properly strap their bike to the trailer, and if special straps are required, you should have them with you.  Help our chase truck drivers help you!!

Kriss Ross is looking for some assistance.  She was part of the 13 flags carried across the US mission and is missing a piece of luggage and a flag.  In her emails, she stated that she has been in contact with several RFTW riders that say they know the whereabouts of her missing items but have not offered any specific information.  If you happen to have information on the whereabouts of her missing items, please contact her via email at mookiki2@gmail.com.

The announcements for both the Kerrville reunion and the Angel Fire reunion and work weekend are out.  I hope you can participate in one or the other, or perhaps both.

No one left behind is more than a standard we all live up to.  It is a way of life. It is part of our Mission. If you or someone you know find themselves struggling with their mental health, please know you can contact the VA Veteran’s Crisis Line by dialing 988 then press 1 or text 838255 and speak or chat with a qualified responder.

Let’s remember to keep our focus on the Mission.  It is why we ride!

Is it May yet?

John “Turkey” Staub
President, RFTW, Inc.
2011- CR FNG
2012 – CR Participant
2013 – CR Staging Team
2014 – 2015 – CR Staging Team Ass’t. Lead
2016-2017 – CR Staging Team Lead
2022 – CR Platoon Coordinator
2023 – CR and Sandbox Road Guard
2020 – Present – RFTW BoD member

One more night in a hotel and I’ll be home. It is hard to believe that Run 2023 is over. The work of so many people culminating in KSU on Tuesday for Midway, and Wednesday for Central and Southern routes followed by Sandbox route enabled us to carry our mission across the country; to reach out to the thousands of patriots who come out to greet us, those who help feed us and sustain our desire to complete the mission. It lends a whole new meaning to the motto “We Ride For Those Who Can’t”. According to my day counter, there are 347 days until KSU Run 2024. The cycle continues. The After-Action Reports are already coming in; click here if you would like to submit one. Your input matters and will help us make Run 2024 even better.

I had the opportunity to ride both Central and Sandbox this year, working on both routes as a Road Guard. I would like to extend a personal thanks to the RGs who took me under their wing and began what I am sure will be a forever learning session. My mentor (Smoke) was patient and understanding. I learned so much from observing the experienced RGs and asking questions. All the RGs took the time to patiently answer my many questions. It is a fast-paced job that demands attention and quick decision making. Our RGs on all the routes work so hard to ensure the pack moves safely across this great nation of ours. Again, to all who worked with me to start my journey to becoming a good RG, I thank you!! To all the RGs on all the Routes, I thank you. RG is a tough job, and you perform it so well!!

To say that communication and leadership are the glue that binds is an understatement. I had the opportunity each morning to work with a different platoon, to speak with the riders and their leadership, to hear their concerns and to help them understand the subtle nuances of the upcoming day. While the RC is the overall leader of the route, a significant amount of responsibility lies on the shoulders of our platoon leadership. From where I sit, you all did a great job.

I fear that sometimes we get so involved in working our responsibilities that we lose sight of our mission. Each time we passed the Missing Man formation while working our way back up front, the RGs would render a salute. I understand the other route RGs did the same. For that short moment, everything stopped, and we recognized the sacrifice of the missing. We took that moment to pay our respects. I urge you to consider taking part in the Missing Man formation as we prepare for Run 2024. If you stop for a moment and reflect on why RFTW was started, that one formation, that one element, is the reason we ride. It is greater than anyone’s ego; the MMF symbolizes why we ride and should continue to be recognized as such. It is entirely proper that the MMF be a leading element so the public sees the importance we place on its significance within our Mission.

As we begin preparations for Run 2024, think about how you might reach out and encourage more younger riders to come on the Run, even if just for a day. At first glance, our Day Rider program was a success, and I’m hopeful the BoD will continue the program in some form. But we need new riders, we need younger riders. Just think, if 1/4 of our riders this year could bring a new rider to the Run, we would gain almost 250 new riders!

John “Turkey” Staub
President, RFTW, Inc.
2011- CR FNG
2012 – CR Participant
2013 – CR Staging Team
2014 – 2015 – CR Staging Team Ass’t. Lead
2016-2017 – CR Staging Team Lead
2022 – CR Platoon Coordinator
2023 – CR and Sandbox Road Guard
2020 – Present – RFTW BoD member

Its MAY!!!!

My countdown clock tells me we are 16 days from KSU.  16 days until we again begin this Mission across our country to remind friends and families of those lost that they and their sacrifice are not forgotten.  16 days until we again begin to reach out to those who cannot ride to remind them that they are not forgotten.  16 days until the plans and scheduling and hard work of thousands of volunteers come to fruition.  We currently have 1181 registered riders on 900 bikes.  Without the support of the thousands of volunteers, completing a Mission of this size would be nearly impossible.  Remember to thank them as we visit their town.  If there is a donation jar at one of the eating locations, remember the hard work they put into providing us with the sustenance we need to complete this journey.  Donations go a long way to ensuring that they support us in years to come.

This year, Midway will be leaving Lot D at 0800 on Tuesday.  While we’ve asked route leadership to attend the send-off, everyone is welcome to attend.  This would be a great opportunity for FNGs to stage, to see what Southern and Central routes will be dealing with Wednesday morning.

We’ve been speaking of getting ourselves and our motorcycles ready for the Run.  Ensuring you have enough meds, hydrating regularly even if you don’t think you need it.  As much as I like my morning coffee, I make sure I always have water with me when I ride.

Speaking of riding, I ask that each and everyone take care on the way to wherever it is you will join the Run.  We are a big family and each of us has friends that reach across all the routes.  Please be careful getting to the starting point, wherever that may be.  We cannot complete this Mission without you.  We need you; our veterans, veteran families and friends need you.  Together, we can make a difference.

The weather across the country has been a bit challenging this year.  Please maintain your situational awareness.  If it looks chancy, it probably is.

Be Safe!!!  I hope to see and meet each and every one of you either in Ontario, D.C., or Marseilles.

Oh, and by the way, yes, it is MAY!!!

Always remember, We Ride For Those Who Can’t.

John “Turkey” Staub
President, RFTW, Inc.
2011- CR FNG
2012 – CR Participant
2013 – CR Staging Team
2014 – 2015 – CR Staging Team Ass’t. Lead
2016-2017 – CR Staging Team Lead
2022 – CR Platoon Coordinator
2020 – Present – RFTW BoD member

As we get closer to our arrival in Ontario, we wanted to provide you an update on conditions, expectations, and perhaps even a bit of rumor control regarding the host hotel in D.C.

As you know by now, our intrepid Carol has been working so many different opportunities in Ontario.  Her dedicated efforts led us to a new host hotel, use of the Elks club for a variety of purposes, and of course, the familiar Lot D.

One of the issues we seem to face each year as far back as I remember is construction on the highways and interstates.  Carol and Alan, our Merchandise Director, just last weekend made a trip in and around the area we will be traveling daily.  They asked that I provide a few notes to temper expectations.

Construction on I-10 continues.  While you can use I-10 to travel to and from the host hotel to the Elks Club, Bob Nelson, our Director of Operations, added a map to the Pre-Run Ontario itinerary available on our website by clicking here, that should aid in avoiding the construction on I-10.  However, even that route presents some challenges:

• Patience rules. Anticipate heavy traffic between the host hotel and the Elks club.
• As you prepare to make the left turn into the Elks club, there is a very short “landing strip” for vehicles to line up waiting to make the turn.
• Be especially aware of dips in the road. They may not be much for a cage but could cause some problems if you are not riding aware.
• Allow some extra time.
• Elks Club members will be directing traffic and parking at the Club. There will be limited parking for cars and trucks, and NO trailers are allowed in the club parking lot.  Carol is working to secure on-street parking.
• There should be sufficient parking for motorcycles in the Elks Club parking lot. Please follow the directions of the volunteers directing traffic and parking.
• The merchandise and hydration trailers will be positioned at the host hotel.

And now for rumor control.

I am sure many of you have heard the rumor that the host hotel in D.C. is being torn down.  That is nothing more than a rumor at this point.  There is a move afoot to rezone the area in and around the host hotel, but the Arlington County zoning commission has delayed the meeting on more than one occasion and doesn’t seem to be in a hurry to meet.  There are numerous infrastructure issues to be addressed regarding rezoning that area.  IF, and right now that is a big if, the rezoning is approved, then the host hotel might be affected and IHG and the franchise owner will have to decide what lies in their future.  Could the property be sold?  Of course, but for now, there are no plans to do so.  Gail, our intrepid D.C./Arlington Coordinator is all over this topic.  Please help us stop the rumor.  Gail will provide us with updates as things occur, and we will of course notify you.

Bad weather seems to be playing out across many of the areas of our country.  Please take a moment to review your route out to CA, and ensure you are aware of necessary actions should you encounter bad weather enroute.  Our RCs are reviewing their plans; please review yours.  We want to see you arrive safely in Ontario!!!

Is it May yet?

John “Turkey” Staub
President, RFTW, Inc.
2011- CR FNG
2012 – CR Participant
2013 – CR Staging Team
2014 – 2015 – CR Staging Team Ass’t. Lead
2016-2017 – CR Staging Team Lead
2022 – CR Platoon Coordinator
2020 – Present – RFTW BoD member

We have several Run family members that are facing life-changing events; I ask that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers.  Let’s not lose sight of the fact that we are FAMILY. That we care. NO ONE LEFT BEHIND.

RFTW teams are working hard to put the final touches on Run XXXIII.  May is just around the corner, and we are already working on next year.  While we are reaching out to several nationwide hotel chains to see if we can negotiate a room rate across the country for next year, our SCs are scrambling to tie up last minute details for this year’s Run.  Many riders are working on prepping themselves for the Run.  Riding this mission takes a lot out of you and requires attention and pre-ride preparation so one can safely complete the mission.  WHAT ARE YOU DOING TO GET READY FOR MAY???

We are reaching out to other veteran-centric organizations to spread the word about the Run.  We are working diligently to attract riders of all wars and conflicts so that our MISSION and goals continue to resonate across our landscape.  As our rider demographics adjust to the ages of our older warriors, we need to ensure our younger warriors know and understand that we look forward to them joining us and carrying on the MISSION.

February was quite the month.  It seemed like we were facing something new each day.  And it wasn’t only us; nearly everyone I spoke with was experiencing a full spectrum of challenges.  Perseverance, determination, communication, teamwork, focus on the goal – yep it works.  It is a bit like what we face each year on the Run.  Day 1 we’re charged up, ready to face the road, ready to face those challenges that may be lying in wait, heat, rain, snow, tornadoes.  By Day 3, we may be getting a bit weary.  But we work through it.  Our family composition changes as we welcome day-riders nearly every day.  The dynamics of the Run changes, often by the hour.  But we work through it as a team, as a family, to complete the MISSION.  NO ONE LEFT BEHIND.

As we worked our way through having to shut down the store, one of our major sources of income; as we worked through not having a merchandise lead for Midway, as we received feedback from deservedly frustrated customers, we on the BoD communicated.  We communicated inside and outside the BoD.  We wanted to communicate the truth and stop rumors.  Rumors are hurtful and do nothing to improve a situation.  They only create and cause tension, and we can all do with less tension.  The BoD is working to communicate across all boundaries.  A decision made in merchandise affects our marketing team. That same decision impacts our finances, so we bring in our treasurer.  We were posting updates on social media, so it affected our communications team.  It most certainly affected our customers, so we communicated with each affected customer individually.  But we did not make these decisions or moves in the dark or without input from our other team members.  When I was assigned to headquarters positions, we often spoke about “vertical columns of excellence”.  We would experience the challenges caused by another directorate or division that affected our area, our AOR (area of responsibility) if you will; issues we were never consulted on or brought in so we could have input.  It caused frustration, delays, and our bosses we sometimes caught off-guard.  Vertical columns of excellence.  Yeah, a team may produce good work in a vacuum, but if they don’t consider the impacts across the spectrum, they become a “vertical column of excellence”.  The RFTW team is committed to avoiding vertical columns of excellence.

Fortunately, our RCs and team leaders understand the need to communicate effectively.  Each RC is conducting planning meetings that involve team leads across their AOR.  The RC depends on each team leader to communicate effectively with their team, and across to other teams.  We are getting down to the wire.  As I write this, my calendar says 79 days to KSU.  I know the RCs are feeling the crunch, the reality of May and all it brings.  Yet they are making the critical decisions RCs must make; they are receiving input from their teams; the team leads are listening to input from leadership and team members across their AOR.  To use an Army term, the route teams are “prepping the battlefield”.  They are making plans to conduct their part of this MISSION, respecting our goals, our mission statement, our priorities.  Run XXXIII is shaping up and it is happening!!!

As we go through the year, there are dates that carry significant meaning to our riders and our MISSION.  March 20^th, 2023 (some will say March 19^th) is the 20^th anniversary of the start of Iraqi Freedom, as the US and coalition forces began the move to oust Saddam Hussein and take down the Iraqi government.  20 years.  March 29^th, 2023 is the 48^th anniversary of the day the last combat troops left Vietnam.  May 12^th – 15^th, 2023 is the 48^th anniversary of Battle of Koh Tang.  48 years.  Anniversary’s that are 28 years apart, yet both eras impacted RFTW and many of our participants.  Different generations, different circumstances forever linked by commonality of purpose; to answer the call of our country.

RFTW recently partnered with the 50^th Anniversary of the Vietnam War, a special commission dedicated to recognizing the contributions of our Vietnam vets.  In recognition of this commemoration and anniversaries, we are working on something special for our Vietnam Vets this year, and while this year’s ceremony in D.C. occurs while we are prepping to leave Ontario (May 11-13), we believe it important that we partner with this extraordinary event and commission.  To learn more, click here.

On Vietnam Veterans Day, Wednesday, March 29, 2023, Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum will offer free admission for Vietnam Veterans and their immediate families. Museum staff will also welcome each veteran home throughout the day by pinning them with a Department of Defense Vietnam War Veteran lapel pin.  Visit www.patriotspoint.org for more information about Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum and its Vietnam Veterans Day events.  Perhaps, if you are close, you might be able to attend.

Before there was “Maverick” there was a real Top Gun.  Capt. Williams came to RFTW Ontario prior to KSU in 2019. Royce helped us with the Naval ceremony honoring the new Sand Box route.  There has been a long-time push to give this man official recognition for his Korean War combat accomplishments. Many thought the Medal of Honor was in the bag for him, but it recently happened that the Navy Cross was ultimately (and officially) awarded.  The MOH needs two witnesses, but by the time the fight began all his wingman were heading back to the ship with mechanical issues. Only one wingman was left to see his heroic efforts.  Read about Capt. Williams heroic actions here:  Former US Pilot Royce Williams receives Navy Cross (nypost.com)

RTM!!

Is it May yet?

John “Turkey” Staub
President, RFTW, Inc.
2011- CR FNG
2012 – CR Participant
2013 – CR Staging Team
2014 – 2015 – CR Staging Team Ass’t. Lead
2016-2017 – CR Staging Team Lead
2022 – CR Platoon Coordinator
2020 – Present – RFTW BoD member

February in South Central PA is not a real good time to be riding a motorcycle but is a great time to be indoors getting ready for May.  I am now two months into my Run exercise routine, I’ve been working on prepping my motorcycle, and of course, with home ownership comes all the indoor things to do that I put off last year.  Speaking of getting ready, what are you doing to prepare?  As I write this, we are 104 days to KSU. May is getting close!!  I urge you to take the time to go over the myriad of details associated with riding this year’s Mission. Don’t forget to look at your prescription meds and ensure you will have a sufficient supply to get you through the Run!!

On Monday May 15^th @ 1900 hrs., we have a unique opportunity to see the movie Courage, a 1-hour movie about POWs in WWII and Vietnam. I had the opportunity to preview the movie and it is quite moving. The Elks are supplying an evening meal at a modest price.  Drinks, but no food, will be allowed in the room.  There will only be 300 seats available, so you might want to get there early.

Their documentary covering Run for the Wall is scheduled to be released on February 4^th @ 6 p.m. EST.  Filmed by Joffrey & Michele Mason, professional filmmakers from Atlanta, GA, it helps us tell a very compelling story.

In addition to the documentary, the couple graciously consented to providing RFTW footage we can use for promotional purposes.  They are thinking of coming back next year to do more filming for RFTW, perhaps a documentary that covers all 4 routes.  More to follow.

Bugs, our Chairman and Acting Risk Management/Registration Director, recently announced a special initiative targeting Day Riders registration fees for Run XXXIII.  In his announcement, Bugs explained how those that are only going to participate for up to two days can register at special rates and still experience all the aspects of the Run.  Day Riders will still need to register at evening or morning sites to ensure they attend the required briefings and so the PLs can integrate them into the platoon.  As we all understand so well, it is about the Mission, and if we can include some that may not have been able to participate, then we are truly opening our doors to all we can.  The Day Rider fee idea was recently brought to us by a rider, and we weren’t sure we could institute the change for registration this year.  But Bugs and Boots were able to make the necessary adjustments to the registration process and here we go!!

HOT ITEM!!  Jerry Wilkins, RC for Midway Route, is looking for a merchandise lead.  We thought we might have one, and then life reared its ugly head.  If you are looking for a way to contribute, especially if you were thinking about doing the Run in a truck, contact Jerry at jerry.wilkins@rftw.us and see if you might be a good fit.  You will need a minimum ½-ton truck with a 13,400 lb. max capacity hitch designed for weight distribution, 2×2 hitch receiver, 7-pin light plug, brake controller mounted in truck, valid driver’s license, truck registration, and vehicle insurance good throughout the Run period.  You will also need towing insurance. You pick up the trailer in Ontario, follow the Midway route to DC, serve as merchandise team lead (sell RFTW merchandise) along the way, and return the trailer to CA. All fuel expenses during the Run are paid by the BOD, and you will have use of debit card to pay for fuel along the way.

If you are interested in serving, we recently announced two Board openings.  We are developing a 5-year strategic plan and we need folks that can take a hard look at how we do business and suggest new ways where appropriate.  We have plans to conduct a study covering our merchandise processes, as well as the challenging job of risk management and registration coordination. Board members do NOT receive any form of wage compensation – we too are all volunteers.  We do, however, reimburse travel expenses associated with attending our Face-to-face meetings.  If you are interested, please review the open position descriptions, and submit a resume outlining your qualifications.  Send your resume to todd.taylor@rftw.us.

IS IT MAY YET??

John “Turkey” Staub
President, RFTW, Inc.
2011- CR FNG
2012 – CR Participant
2013 – CR Staging Team
2014 – 2015 – CR Staging Team Ass’t. Lead
2016-2017 – CR Staging Team Lead
2022 – CR Platoon Coordinator
2020 – Present – RFTW BoD member

I received a phone call the other day that really set me back in my chair a bit and again made me think about Mission.  The caller was concerned, and voiced the concerns of others he knows, that RFTW has strayed from the Mission.  This isn’t the first time I’ve heard that we have strayed, but this time it really resonated with me.  I wanted to share some thoughts with you and reinforce the hope we Continue the Mission not only in words, but that we truly remember why we ride.

The first three words of our Mission Statement are “To promote healing…”.  The Run for the Wall philosophy (click here to see both the mission and philosophy) expresses that through participation in the Run, our riders can “reflect and heal on their journey…” “in the hope they can return home to a new beginning”.  Healing. Hope. New Beginning. Powerful words.

During the call, we spoke of the “22”. How every day we continue to lose veterans to suicide. I thought about how, long ago, a group of Vietnam Vets recognized issues our government was not willing to address, and like veterans do, took it upon themselves to make it happen.  How, in the spirit of brotherhood and sisterhood, they started our Mission.  How some of our current vets are suffering from the same traumatic impacts associated with serving that many of our Vietnam Vets suffer through.  How wars and conflicts, generations apart, are still impacting those who carry out our national policies. How maybe we have lost some of our focus on the Run.  And it doesn’t have to be PTSD related.  Our society is recognizing moral injury as a serious issue as well.  Are we still truly dedicated to helping reduce the number suffering?

The call made me reflect on my FNG year and how my platoon leader, every morning, spoke with each member of the platoon to see how they were doing, to see if they needed anything.  To ensure that our experience on the Run was living up to our needs and expectations.  To make sure the members of their platoon were taken care of.  Leadership at its best.  He went the extra mile to ensure each and every one of us was taken care of based on our individual needs.

I thought about our Chaplain Corp. How so very well prepared they are to help us heal, about how their Mission is solely dedicated to helping others.  How they go out of their way to look for signs of stress and other indicators that might require their special skills.  How they are always available.  I remember hearing about an individual on the Run that came home from Vietnam in 1969 and had not been east of the Mississippi since.  How, for three straight years, our chaplains and others worked with this person to get him across the Mississippi.  In the fourth year, this person was finally able to go to the Wall.  No One Left Behind!!

I thought about the man wearing a Vietnam Veteran hat that approached me one year at the Village Inn restaurant in Colby, KS.  We were on our way to California for the Run and, of course, had our RFTW vests on.  He came up to our table and asked if we were part of RFTW.  I stood to greet him, and when I answered in the affirmative, he shook my hand and thanked us for doing what we do.  He was a Vietnam vet, a motorcycle rider, and explained that while he wanted to go to the Wall, he just could not, it was too painful.  He spoke of when RFTW stopped in Colby and how proud he was as he relived his past with others that understood.  I gave him a hearty Welcome Home and invited him to sit with us and talk.  He had to get to an appointment but wanted to reach out and let us know that what we do makes a difference.  Maybe, just maybe, him seeing us again and speaking with us made a difference in his life.  We Ride for Those Who Can’t.

I thought about our Outreach teams.  How very important their job is – reaching out and touching families that suffered through the ultimate sacrifice or those that may still have MIA family members or friends.  Reminding those families and friends that they and theirs are not forgotten.  That we will continue to call for an accounting of those missing in action.  That we Ride For Those Who Can’t.

I thought about our Ambassadors and how they stop and reach out to people across the country, whether at an overpass on an Interstate or gathered to meet us at one of our stops.  How many veterans and veteran supporters have our Ambassadors touched?  How many Welcome Home hugs or handshakes have they given?  How many thousands of supporters have our Ambassadors encountered and carried the message that we Ride For Those Who Can’t and that we sincerely appreciate them coming out to support our efforts.

I’m sure each of you have had similar thoughts and experiences.  As we prepare for Run XXXIII, let’s not lose sight of the healing aspect of our Mission.  If we dedicate ourselves to Continue the Mission, if, in the spirit of true Brotherhood, we look out for one another, if we think about the special skills our Chaplains and others bring to our Mission, we can help ensure that no one is left behind.  No One Left Behind!!

With those thoughts in mind, I would like to challenge everyone, especially those in leadership positions, especially at the platoon level, to take an extra moment each and every day to ensure your people are okay.  Make sure your people know you care and that you have their best interests at heart.  I know you have their best interest at heart, else you would not volunteer for a leadership position.  Make sure you are familiar with the resources we have immediately available so we can continue to promote healing.  Don’t be ashamed to ask for the help of others if you do not have the answer or expertise to help a fellow rider.

It is not about the “ride”.  It is not about what color hat you might wear.  It is not about paid gas stops or free food.  If you are here for those things, perhaps you might want to take some time to reflect on what RFTW is really about.  Rededicate yourself to reflecting and living our core values and to Continue the Mission.

I know there are times when we get caught up in the logistics and the planning of the Run.  I know that there are so many things that demand our attention that sometimes it seems like we can’t see the forest for the trees.  But I assure you, the Board of Directors, our RCs, our Platoon Leaders, our Stagers, our Fuel teams, our Road Guards, everyone in a leadership position, is truly focused on ensuring that we live up to our Mission statement and Philosophy.

Let’s take the time to refocus on the Mission.  Maybe, just maybe, we will make a difference in someone’s life.

Let’s continue to promote healing in the hope that our riders will return home to a new beginning.

 John “Turkey” Staub
Acting President, RFTW, Inc.
2011- CR FNG
2012 – CR Participant
2013 – CR Staging Team
2014 – 2015 – CR Staging Team Ass’t. Lead
2016-2017 – CR Staging Team Lead
2022 – CR Platoon Coordinator
2020 – Present – RFTW BoD member

Happy New Year!!!

2022 is finally behind us, and as I write this, we are 133 days from KSU, and the preparations for Run XXXIII are moving along.  The hotel lists were published on 1 January, and reports are that room reservations are moving along at a rapid pace.  Hats off to our State Coordinators, whose countless hours establishing the critical support for each route make this process so easy for us!!

Speaking of 2023, if you haven’t yet registered, I encourage you to do so before 1 February when the registration fee goes up.  Currently, our registration numbers are ahead of last year. Since the accuracy of our registration numbers drive the State Coordinators planning, if you haven’t yet registered, please CLICK HERE to register today!

One thing I ask all of you to help us with is the recruitment of new riders.  Our age demographics continue to show older riders as the majority.  Our concern is that without an influx of younger veterans and riders, we may eventually get to a point where it is difficult to host four routes.  We need to CONTINUE THE MISSION!!!  In order to CTM, we need younger participants, we need to mentor those younger participants for leadership positions.  We need to expand our outreach to veteran organizations, to military organizations, to those who care and support our Mission.  We have presentation templates so that the message we carry to outside organizations is consistent and meet the intent of RFTW.  I encourage you all to reach out to your local VFW, American Legion, Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association, and others to recruit new riders.  Remember, it isn’t simply about going All the Way; it is about making a statement through participation!!  Whether you ride one leg, three days, or ATW, we need our voices and the voices of those who cannot ride, to be raised and heard at the highest level.  We Ride for Those Who Can’t!!!

Finally, now is the perfect time to not only get your bike prepared for the Run, but to prepare yourself.  I’m not big into new year resolutions, but I firmly believe that physical fitness plays a huge role in a successful and fulfilling Run.  With 133 days to KSU, now is a perfect time to get a health checkup, to begin a fitness regimen so that you are prepared for the Ride.  Those on CR last year well remember leaving Barstow with temps at 68° and arriving in Needles for lunch with temps hovering around 106°.  It was a demanding ride, requiring hydration, focus and preparation.  A fit body can have a huge impact on your mental wellbeing, and riding through these types of conditions are certainly challenging.  Let’s all be prepared for what lies ahead.

I sincerely hope 2023 brings you and your family joy, happiness, peace and fulfillment.

IS IT MAY YET!!

John “Turkey” Staub
Acting President, RFTW, Inc.
2011- CR FNG
2012 – CR Participant
2013 – CR Staging Team
2014 – 2015 – CR Staging Team Ass’t. Lead
2016-2017 – CR Staging Team Lead
2022 – CR Platoon Coordinator
2020 – Present – RFTW BoD member