Issue link: https://imageup.uberflip.com/i/860296
8 SOLERA DIAMOND VALLEY | AUGUST 2017 By Berkie Harris, Resident Eight states, 10 days, 3,000 miles and hundreds of dedicated motorcyclists. Created in 1989, the original purpose of Run for the Wall was to bring awareness to the fact that many Vietnam War troops were still missing in action, or being held as prisoners of war. What it has evolved into is a cathartic experience for the men and women who returned from that war without the hero's welcome they deserved. For SDV residents Joe and Gloria Carrillo it's knowing that he is riding for other veterans who cannot. In May Joe and his nephew, Gilbert Carrillo of Tucson, AZ, participated in the 29th ride that originated from Ontario, CA. Taking the southern route they rode across California, Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Tennessee before arriving at Arlington, VA on May 26 to pay homage at the Vietnam Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C. – the destination of the run. Just as many riders came in via the Northern and Midway routes. Joe and Gilbert rode for veterans who recently passed away from Agent Orange complications. Joe carried a picture of Spc. Gary Garcia who served with the US Army 25th infantry in Vietnam. Joe served in the Marine Corp from 1969 to 1972. Gilbert's bike displayed a picture of Cpl. Edward William Steele. The pictures included a biography and were left at the wall. "I have friends that physically, financially or mentally can't go; I rode for them as well," said Joe. "The most inspiring part of the trip was how people stood on overpasses waving flags. It gave me a chill," Joe said. "We stopped at grammar schools where kids sang for us and volunteers fed us. We stopped at memorials and met people from all the different organizations that made the ride possible. It was an overwhelming feeling." This was Joe's second ride but he knows he will go again. "I'm a veteran and as long as I can ride for someone who can't, I will" he said. Gloria kept the home fires burning but hopes to eventually join Joe at the Wall. Besides Harley riding the Carrillos are also golfers and can often be found walking their dogs on the Paseo. Run for the Wall "The most inspiring part of the trip was how people stood on overpasses waving flags. It gave me a chill."