May 21, 2012
The Membership department at VFW National Headquarters joined local VFW members in Concordia, Mo., to pay tribute to motorcyclists participating in the annual cross-country “Run for the Wall” motorcycle ride.
More than 600 riders made a pit stop in Concordia as they journeyed to the Vietnam Memorial in Washington, D.C., to honor veterans of past and current wars.
Flags lined the road as members of the community cheered for the riders as they entered town.
To show their appreciation to the riders, community members provided a catered lunch. Concordia VFW Post 5649 set up a booth outside the pavilion where lunch was served, and Post members expressed their gratitude to the riders and even signed-up new VFW members.
The riders truly appreciated everyone’s generous efforts. “The ladies and gentlemen serving [lunch] were so generous with their compliments and appreciation of the riders and all military personnel. We were treated to sandwiches, beans, drinks, desserts – served with a genuine spirit of gratitude and friendly smiles and encouraging words,” shared rider Reuben Siverling.
Before the riders hit the road again, the VFW covered nearly $3,700 in gas for every biker to fill his tank. “Sponsoring the fuel stop is a great opportunity to interact with veterans. Giving them a few gallons of gas is a great way to support what they’re doing,” said Dan Parker, VFW’s Deputy Director of Membership. The VFW has sponsored the fuel stop for several years.
As the riders rode out of town, local residents lined Main Street to give them a proper send-off.
The annual event is one the VFW plans to continue participating in. “We support the ‘Run for the Wall’ riders in their mission of riding for those who can’t and raising awareness about the true cost of freedom,” said Parker.