Illinois Freedom Run 2006
Where it all began
13 Fallen Soldiers of Operation Epic Fury will be added to the Middle East Conflicts Wall Memorial
The Heart of the Memorial: The Story of the Illinois Motorcycle Freedom Run
A War Memorial dedicated to our Fallen Heroes
The Middle East Conflicts Wall Memorial stands as a powerful and solemn tribute to the brave United States servicemen and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in conflicts connected to the Middle East and global terrorism from 1967 to the present day.
Dedicated in 2004, the Memorial holds the distinction of being the first American war monument built by volunteers and established during ongoing military conflicts, ensuring that those who gave their lives would be honored without delay.
More than 8,000 names are permanently engraved on polished granite panels, each representing a hero lost in service to our nation. The Memorial recognizes sacrifices made in numerous military operations and terrorist attacks, including Panama, Grenada, Lebanon Barracks Bombing, the Balkans, Granada, Somalia, Haiti, and attacks against U.S. forces and citizens worldwide such as the USS Victory, USS Stark, USS Cole, and acts of terrorism in Italy, Greece, Scotland, Syria, and throughout the Global War on Terror.
The Middle East Conflicts Wall Memorial serves as a place of reflection, remembrance, and gratitude — ensuring that the courage, service, and sacrifice of America’s fallen heroes are never forgotten.
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2026 EVENT CALENDAR
Join The Illinois Motorcycle Freedom Run Next Year!
6/20/26
SAVE THE DATE!
Where
Grundy County Fairrounds
8890 IL-47, Morris, IL 60450
When
June 20th, 2026
Saturday Morning starting at 6am
Beginning in late 2002, demonstrations against the potential Iraq War were organized in many cities worldwide. On March 20th, 2003, the day after the United States invasion of Iraq had begun, protests of the war began to take place in Washington, D.C., San Francisco, New York, Pittsburgh, Portland, Boston, and Chicago.
Chicago resident and US Navy veteran Tony (Greaseball) Cutrano, his son Chance Cutrano, Jerry (Cooch) Kuczera, and friends rode their motorcycles through the streets of downtown Chicago amongst the anti-war protesters and/or peace activists to pass out American flags in support of our troops leaving for Iraq and those already with boots on the ground. The march down Michigan Avenue was blocked by police, and a standoff happened with an estimated crowd of 15,000 people. The Bikers were surrounded by the noise of anti-war chants and growing aggression. They responded by revving the engines of their motorcycles until the Chicago Police appeared and safety escorted them away.
Middle East Conflicts Wall Memorial – Group Visit & Speaker Request Form
The Middle East Conflicts Wall Memorial, located in Marseilles, Illinois, is a heartfelt tribute to the brave men and women who sacrificed to protect our freedom. Built entirely by volunteers, this memorial provides a place of reflection, remembrance, and gratitude — honoring the lives that helped shape our nation. We invite you to join us in preserving their legacy and ensuring their courage continues to inspire future generations.
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The Impact We Make
The Middle East Conflicts Wall Memorial, located in Marseilles, Illinois, is a heartfelt tribute to the brave men and women who sacrificed to protect our freedom. Built entirely by volunteers, this memorial offers a place of reflection and gratitude, honoring the lives that shaped our nation. We invite you to join us in preserving their legacy and ensuring their courage continues to inspire future generations. Need Help planning a group visit? fill out the form below!
