By TONY GUERRERO
Hays Post
Rev up your engines for the 2024 Run for the Wall as a cross-country motorcycle ride passes through Kansas to honor veterans.
The non-profit raises awareness across multiple routes, not only for retired soldiers but also for prisoners of war and those missing in action.
Traveling through multiple states, including Kansas, State Coordinator Jarrod Gerbitz said he oversees the borders of the Sunflower state.
"It started in 1989. It was a small group back then, but every year it just gets bigger and bigger," Gerbitz said.
This year's convoy begins next week and the following week along four different routes.
- The Midway Route, May 14 to May 25, from Ontario, California to Washington, D.C.
- The Central Route, May 15 to May 25, from Ontario, California to Washington, D.C.
- The Southern Route, May 15 to May 25, from Ontario, California to Washington, D.C.
- The Sandbox Route, May 26 to May 28, from Washington D.C. to Marseilles, Illinois
You can find a more detailed map of the routes here.
"I tell people to get on overpasses," Gerbitz said. "It's one of the greatest feelings in the world, and the riders absolutely love it because it gets to be a very grueling ride."
The central route along Interstate 70 will include several Kansas stops like Oakley, Bunker Hill, Junction City, and Topeka for lunch and refueling.
The motorcyclists will pass through Russell on May 19 en route to Bunker Hill, where Hess Services will provide a patriotic display at Sunmart, 4115 193rd St.
"Hess is bringing a crane and a huge flag, and they're gonna set that up in the parking lot," Gerbitz said.
Arrival times and locations may change if weather conditions affect the route. Estimated arrival times are provided.
- 11:50 a.m. May 19, Oakley
- 2:20 to 2:40 p.m. May 19, Hays
- 3:20 p.m. May 19, Bunker Hill
- 5:45 p.m. May 19, Junction City
- 8:45 a.m. May 20, Topeka
Participation in the ride is open to anyone, regardless of veteran or military status, but registration is required. The fee now ranges from $25 to $75 per person.
Participants can register on the day of the ride at overnight stops like Junction City. Meals and fuel are provided by donors and supporters.
Led by a route coordinator, the front of the pack will feature a formation in remembrance of soldiers who are absent or missing.
"The empty spot is for the missing man. It's a tight formation that honors a veteran that's been lost," Gerbitz said.
Run for the Wall focuses on raising awareness and does not engage in political speeches or demonstrations. Individuals can still make donations here.
About 35 years ago, Run for the Wall was started by Vietnam Veterans who rode motorcycles across America, engaging with local radio, television and newspapers to spotlight the thousands of people still unaccounted for from various wars.
"The mission is to promote healing among all veterans and their families and friends," Gerbitz said. "To honor the memory of those killed in action from all wars and to support our military personnel all over the world."
You can find more information on the Run for the Wall ride website.
You can also follow the event on Facebook.
