Run for the Wall Returns This Memorial Day
ZANESVILLE, OH – For many, Memorial Day is a time to reflect. For others, it’s a journey… one that spans thousands of miles in honor of those who served.
Each year, thousands of motorcyclists take part in Run for the Wall, a cross-country journey honoring fallen military service members, prisoners of war, and those still missing in action.
“The mission statement is to promote the healing of all veterans and their family and friends. It’s to push for the accountability of P.O.W’s and M.I.A’s. It’s to honor all those killed in action, and to support our troops wherever they are all over the globe. It’s all about supporting current day soldiers and veterans.” Run for the Wall Road Guard in Training, Mike Cooper said.
As the riders pass through, communities are encouraged to gather on interstate overpasses to show their support. Locally, you can watch from the Hamline Bridge this Memorial Day, with riders expected around 9:30 to 9:45 a.m. Showing up is a simple way to honor those who served and remind riders their mission is supported.
“I’m honoring my dad. He was a veteran of Korean Vietnam. He got in at 50, got out at 70. He got orders to go to Vietnam, failed the physical, and then talked to my mother about how disappointed he was that he couldn’t meet the commitment he made 18 years earlier when he signed his name on a line. That’s the kind of people I’m honoring. Cooper said. “I’m hooked. I’m going to do it as long as I can get my leg over my motorcycle and when I can’t do that anymore, I’ll drive a chase truck or a hydration truck that follows us.”
You can find more information about Run for the Wall, including their full route and mission, on their website.
