Run For The Wall from California to DC

Local News
Vets ride to honor the fallen


By SHEILA RHOADES
Friday, May 29, 2009 10:31 PM EDT

LAKETON - U.S. military brothers and sisters, friends and supporters from all over the country converged on Washington D.C. this week in the annual "Run For The Wall," a motorcycle freedom ride which began in Rancho Cucamonga, Calif.



The RFTW culminated in more than 350,000 motorcycles filling three-and-a-half of the four Pentagon parking lots, with riders (called Rolling Thunder) who were there to pay their respects to those who gave their lives in exchange for American freedom. Those still serving in the military were honored as well.

As some riders passed through Wabash County, Bob and Chris Haecker were honored to welcome them into their home for a brief respite from the road and to enjoy an afternoon barbecue.

Bob Haecker is also a veteran. He served in Vietnam and received a Purple Heart for wounds received in combat. This was his very first trip to The Wall, where the names of 58,261 men and women are listed. The number also includes 1,200 MIAs and POWs.

"It was pretty awesome," he said. "I was really excited to be there."
go here for more
http://www.wabashplaindealer.com/articles/2009/05/30/local_news/local2.txt