Run for the Wall stops in Kansas

Several hundred motorcyclists make their way across the country during the
Run for the Wall event. 

Several hundred motorcyclists moved through Kansas yesterday during the 31^st annual Run for the Wall event, which began in Ontario, Calif., last week. They ride for those who can’t and recognize the sacrifices and contributions of veterans who served our nation.

The ride is designed to help veterans and their loved ones heal. It also serves as a reminder to account for all prisoners of war and those who are missing in action. The ride honors the memories of those killed in all wars and supports military members all over the world.

The riders will complete their journey when they reach the Vietnam Memorial on May 27. Motorcyclists were hosted by Kansas Turnpike Authority, KDOT, the Kansas ABATE chapter and the Kansas Commission on Veterans Affairs at the Topeka Service Area.

After an overnight stop in Junction City, the group was provided with free gas and water by the KTA and Topeka Service Area.

According to the Run for the Wall website, the ride began in 1989 and was started by two Vietnam Veterans, James Gregory and Bill Evans, who raised awareness about the thousands of men and women who are still unaccounted for from all wars.

“We don’t give political speeches or stage demonstrations,” the website said. “RFTW gets its message to the public by riding coast to coast across the United States.”

Motorcyclists stop at the Topeka Service Area, and were provided with free water and gas by the KTA.

The event consists of three different routes. Each route will come together at the Vietnam Memorial in Washington, D.C., where the Run for the Wall officially ends.  Along the way, riders can stop at various memorials, veteran’s hospitals, schools and parades. 

Riders leave the Topeka Service Area and make their way to their next stop.