American flags rippled and snapped in a cold 20 mph wind Saturday, May 19.Members of the American Legion Dane R. Balcon Post 2008, the Falcon Fire Protection District and the local community cheered more than 300 veteran and patriot motorcycle riders when they passed through Falcon on their way to Washington D.C. for the 30th annual Run For The Wall.A special guest, Carla Sizer, was present to cheer the riders on as well.†Carlaís son, Dane R. Balcon, is the namesake of Falconís American Legion Post 2008. Dane Balcon died Sept. 5, 2007, while serving in the U.S. Army in Iraq. Founded by Vietnam veterans, Run For The Wall recognizes the sacrifices and contributions made by all veterans who have served the nation.The Run For The Wall website states the event was started in 1989 by James Gregory and Bill Evans, two Vietnam veterans who traveled across the heartland of America on motorcycles. They talked to local radio, TV and newspapers about the thousands of men and women still unaccounted for from all wars. The need for this awareness continues today, and the tradition of the ride occurs every May.The trip is a 10-day ride from Ontario, California, to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., where The Run officially ends. All riders meet on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial just before noon on the Saturday before Memorial Day. From there, they walk as a group to The Wall and declare ìMission Completeî by placing a plaque at the apex.During the journey across the U.S., the riders make stops at memorials, veteransí hospitals and schools. They enjoy parades, escorts and ìWelcome Homeî receptions provided by the patriots in host cities. American Legion posts along the way cover the gas and provide meals for all the riders.
