The annual “Run for the Wall” motorcycle ride will, once again, stop in Mt. Vernon this year on Tuesday, May 22nd at 12:30 p.m. This is the 30th year Mt. Vernon has welcomed Run for the Wall riders. Approximately 500 bikers will re-fuel and proceed down Broadway to the Mt. Vernon Outland Airport for a donated luncheon. Several restaurants and businesses have donated to this luncheon so far including The Diner & Bakery, Borowiak’s IGA, Kroger, Cracker Barrel, Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, The Frosty Mug, Jefferson County AMVETS, and the Mt. Vernon VFW. Organizations such as The Kyle Price Foundation, ABATE, The Christian Motorcycle Association, HOOAH, and more are volunteering with booths and giveaways at the airport. At 1:45 p.m., bikers will depart on Route 15 through Wayne City onto their next destination. The public is encouraged to line Broadway Street with flags and other signs of appreciation to cheer on bikers as they ride to the airport. The public is also welcome to go to the airport and show their support and appreciation for Veteran’s at this event.
Bikers across the nation assemble annually for the Run for the Wall ride that promotes healing among veterans, calls for an accounting of all Prisoners of War and those Missing in Action (POW/MIA), honors the memory of those Killed in Action (KIA), and supports our military personnel all over the world. The ride begins in California and ends at the Vietnam Memorial in Washington, D.C. Mt. Vernon is their only Illinois stop.
Businesses and individuals are encouraged to aid in donations towards fuel for the Run for the Wall riders. If you wish to donate, or would like more information, contact the Mt. Vernon Convention & Visitors Bureau at 618-242-3151 or [email protected].