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medical emergency personnel. At the head of the seemingly unending column is the position of highest honor. It is the “Missing Man” formation. The 21G*.:'$&(*F:*$0&6'(&0)"&!1%*!(& in front and two in the rear. The 21906&!1%*!&1$&06*&:1%%+*&!1%*(&"$& one side, leaving an open spot for a missing rider, symbolizing
May 21, 2013 • The Loafer, Page 15 those who have fallen. “It’s amazing to watch a fuel stop,” said Mayor Crewe, who started this year’s ride from California. “At the Davey Crockett Truck Stop (in Rogersville), the bikes will be gassed up with military precision, all 600 motorcycles within an hour.” The RFTW can be an emotional roller coaster for many of the veterans. And when
they arrive at the Vietnam Wall Memorial that has etched in it more than 40,000 names of killed and missing soldiers, the feelings can be overwhelming even after 40 years from the /"$2+1/0&1$&U"#06*'(0&X(1'8 “I’ve seen some bikers ride the whole distance and get so overcome that they can’t approach the Wall,” said Mayor Crewe. “It’s an amazing
experience full of laughter, hugs and tears.” Run For The Wall recognizes 06*& ('/!121/*(& '$%& /"$0!1E#01"$(& made by all veterans who have served our nation. Veterans "9& !*/*$0& /"$2+1/0(& '$%& 06"(*& currently on active duty are especially welcome to join us as we ride for those who cannot. Mission Statement: To promote healing among ALL veterans and their families and friends, to call for an accounting of all Prisoners of War and those Missing in Action (POW/MIA), to honor the memory of those Killed in Action (KIA) from all
wars, and to support our military personnel all over the world. Philosophy: We strive to maintain a safe, supportive and private atmosphere in which all C'!01/1C'$0(&/'$&!*2+*/0&'$%&6*'+& on their journey to the Vietnam Memorial in Washington, D.C. in the hope that they can return home to a new beginning. Goals: To guide the participants across America. To educate future generations as to the importance of accountability in wartime actions emphasizing that no one should be left behind. For more information, see www.rftw.org.