May 19, 2026 – Day 7 to DC - Wentzville, MO to Corydon, IN
For the last week, I have posted many pictures of flag along our way. I have a suggestion. Look around your neighborhoods and towns. I bet you will see that our flag is not just on the Run but it is there every day.
We have challenges among the platoons and the military branches while on the Run. The money raised goes to the kids in Rainelle.
I have a challenge for all you reading this. Look around today and see how many flags you see. Count them. By the end of the day I bet you will bet surprised on the number.
Then try and remember a person serving our country in the military. This is why we have the freedom we have.
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There was a breakout today. A breakout is when some of the riders get to get off the route path and take a side step to visit another facility.
Perryville
A ride to Perryville to see an exact replica of the Vietnam wall.
Google:
Today, a full-sized replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall stands, officially known as America's Wall and locally known as The Perryville Wall. The wall is part of the new Missouri National Veterans Memorial site. It is a full-sized Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall like the one in the mall in Washington, D.C.
Here are a few pics from the ones that attended.
This is another organization the RFTW supports.
Stephen is holding a bag of popcorn near "Popcorn Billy's" brother name. I will have more on this in tomorrow's report
Back with the pack, we finished the morning meeting and headed out.
Again there are many that come out to send us off.
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First stop Wentzville Vietnam Veterans Memorial
Due to the weather, a few thing needed to be adjusted. The band was undercover and we did not have the wreath ceremony. We did have a few speakers. Comments: They said we are an impact to the Wentzville families and all the families in this country. We have a commitment to those that never made it home. And we have set an example to all.
Group photo and photo with our Vietnam veterans.
Google:
Wentzville Vietnam Veterans Memorial
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.... and also a school bus.
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Here is a new kind of pic. This is behind me...
Heading into Mt. Vernon for a chicken dinner made by the Mt. Vernon Elks.
At several stops, we have people singing the National Anthem. 
Heading out to Indiana, I love the change in the scenery. Lots of green
It was carved by someone on the Run (sorry I have to get the name). He wanted it to go to a Vietnam veteran. So Mr. Ivers received it tonight at dinner.
Temp: 63-90
Wentzville takes extreme pride in being home to the first Vietnam Veterans Memorial in the United States. Wentzville was the first city in the nation to realize that the troops who served in Vietnam deserved to be honored.
As it stands today, the Wentzville Vietnam Veterans Memorial consists of a single-column of red Missouri granite, topped by the carved figure of an eagle. Inscribed in the column’s base is;
Vietnam Veterans Memorial December 1967
“Whither thou goest, I will go.”
We have our LEO escort only to the state line. Thanks all!!!
As we get ready to cross the Mississippi, we ride thru St. Louis. It is know for the its Arch.
Quick fun fact:
St. Louis Arch is the tallest monument in the U.S. at 630 feet in height.
I think Illinois is trying to compete with Kansas. The bridges were awesome.
How long do you think this took to set up and organize all those people for the Run?
We go thru an overpass in about 5 minutes. You are all amazing.
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Here is a new kind of pic. This is behind me...
They started cooking at 5:00 this morning to fix all that chicken for us.
Great reception by kids. Love it!!!
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She had such a powerful voice that again I need my tissues. So strong.
Oh no!! Twenty-one gun salute....
....taps. Thanks Mt. Vernon for all you do.
Turkey is our starter at every stop. Remember, he has to remember the order of the platoons since we change every day. Also remember the Missing Man and Leadership go behind the road guards in front. Well....I think Turkey was so focused on the platoons that he forgot to release Missing Man and Leadership. Sooo there goes Platoon1 leading the pack. Good thing it got figured out in this big parking lot. May not be funny to the readers but pretty funny to us. You do a great job Turkey. Just 3 more days.
This is how they are lined up.... should be in order as long as you remember who starts.
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Once we get into Indiana, it looks like they too want to get into the bridge challenge.
Way to go state coordinators.
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Our last gas stop for the day brings a few families out to greet our riders.
Many are gone from families for 3 weeks. It is nice to see the support especially the kids.
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Here is Turkey. Always a smile on his face, even when mistakes are made.
We all make them but fun to joke about them
Reception in Corydon where we stay for the night is incredible. Flags flying everywhere.
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Fish fry dinner.... Yummy!!
... and of course desserts. I am up to 15 pounds gained so far.
At dinner, Ed came up to me and said Charlie was so proud of his shirt and hat that they gave him yesterday, he wanted to share with us.
Welcome Home Charlie.
At dinner, a Vietnam vet was presented with this walking stick.
Standing in the lobby, I caught up with Kim. She was telling me that he was one of the ones on the bus. I said "what bus?" There is group of veterans that are not able to ride a motorcycle but want to participate. They are on a bus and participate in the ceremonies, meals,.... They are starting with us in Corydon and will ride to DC. Mr. Ivers was selected to receive this. He was very honored.
Temp: 63-90
Route: I-64E
Total Miles: 290
Quote for the day:
Please tell him he is more than just a name on a wall
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