Back in Montana, Joe Stinson of the Flathead Marines contacted his nephew, Captain Ryan Wilson at Minot Air Force Base. Ryan contacted the public affairs on base, and they sent a crew to cover the Walking for the Fallen story. Then Ryan paid for a night’s stay at Staybridge Suites — a wonderful respite from sogging camping, 30 mph winds and more than a few ticks in the tent.
That led me to meet the general Manager, Dave Bussard, who called all the local Minot media, who helped spread the word and raise donations. Bussard also put out a donation box in the lobby (someone donated brand new size 13 running shoes! Perfect timing.)
After a few phone calls, Bussard also found rooms in Devils Lake and Grand Forks.
All this to say, is that I am amazed at the effort people put in to promote this project.
How a few people, one person from Kalispell, contacts a person at Minot, his circles led to other circles.
Wow, I didn’t do anything but walk here, and all these people stepped up and pulled it all together, I just think it’s amazing.
A few walking days east of Minot, and Bussard showed up on the road with his wife and children, stopped to say hi, and gave me a brand new Camelback water bladder. He knew mine was leaking.
Day after day, people show their generosity and caring. America is full of people with huge hearts.
