No new names will be added to the Marseilles Middle East Conflict Memorial Wall after the Illinois Motorcycle Freedom Run. Treasurer Laura Wadzinski says that’s the first time it’s happened. Nonetheless, the Illinosi Motorcycle Freedom Run is set for this Saturday. It’s been twenty years since the group was formed in 2003. Wadzinski says she hopes for at least five thousand bikers to take the trip. Although no names added to the wall, she says the ride is still important for families who’ve lost loved ones during Middle East conflicts.
One thing that’s different this year is there will be a presentation with the Honor and Rememberence Flag during the ceremony.
She says gates at the Grundy County Fairgrounds will open at six for collecting donations. A $20 donatin is required. Motorcyclists will leave the fairground at 10:30 and will start to arrive in Marseilles around 11. The ceremony at the wall begins at noon. After the ceremony, Marseilles will host a Freedom Fest this year. It will have food, bands, and allows bikers the opportunity to go to local businesses downtown. Last year the Freedom Fest was called off because of a lack of funding.