Annual Run For The Wall bikers make their way through Vicksburg

Motorcyclists participating in the annual Run for the Wall motorcycle ride made their way through Vicksburg on Monday.

The Run For The Wall group rides in honor of those who cannot, including veterans, those missing in action and/or prisoners of war.

(Photo by Keith Phillips)

Run For The Wall began in 1989 and has grown each year.

“In May 1989, Marion Shelton saw the first Run leave from San Diego with a local police escort. Bill and I were in the lead. However, before we reached Ontario, Bill lost some of his gear, blew a tire, and then blew his motor. He spent the rest of The Run in the back of a pick-up. Pete then came up and helped with the pack and mechanical needs. This was the first time anyone had ever tried to lead a pack of motorcycles across country. Everyone said we were crazy. About 115 bikes left San Diego the first year. Most turned back in Las Vegas, but about 15 went all the way,” states James “Gunny” Gregory on the Run for the Wall website.

(Photo by Keith Phillips)

Run For The Wall became a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization in 1998.

“We promote healing among ALL veterans, and their families and friends; we call for an accounting of all Prisoners of War and those Missing In Action (POW/MIA); we honor the memory of all those killed in action from all wars; and we support our military personnel all over the world. We strive to maintain a safe, supportive, and private atmosphere in which all participants can reflect and heal on their journeys to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington D.C., and the Middle East Conflicts Wall Memorial in Marseilles, IL, in the hope that they can return home to a new beginning.”

The following video was sent by John Kirby Day: