National EMS Memorial Bike Ride Rolls into Roanoke, VA
ROANOKE, Va. -- Nearly 100 bicyclists from across the country were greeted with cheers, waves, tears, applause and bagpipers when they arrived here Friday night.
The final moments of the annual National EMS Memorial Bike Ride included hugs between participants as well as from families and friends of fallen EMS heroes.
Names of EMS personnel who gave the ultimate sacrifice were printed in chalk at the entrance to Hotel Roanoke where the ride ended.
Pictures and personal histories of the heroes were displayed on little stakes around flower gardens and on lamp posts in the entrance courtyard.
Some riders had pictures on their bike helmets, others wore bracelets bearing their names.
Last weekend, the riders set off from either Kentucky or New York City. On Friday afternoon, the groups rendezvoused at Salem Rescue Squad.
During a much-needed break, riders swapped stories, stretched, munched on nutritious snacks and sipped water or sports beverages. Some provided shoulder massages for fellow riders.
The enthusiasm of the bicyclists was contagious. It was powerful. The last leg of the trip ahead was just ahead of them -- moments away and only nine miles.
After a few brief announcements, the group raised arms in the air and shouted: "Whoo Rahh" before heading to their bikes.
Residents peered from windows of their homes, people came out of stores and stopped on the street to wave as the entourage made its way through side streets from Salem to Roanoke.
Sirens from the support vehicles announced the approaching parade that included two motorcyclists from Texas who accompanied the group from New York City.
One of the motorcyclists, T.J. Callis, said the riders were very appreciative of their efforts. In addition to blocking intersections and assisting local police, they also monitored the group for breakdowns or other issues.
"In the Shenandoah National Park, we were the only communication," he said. "Everything went well. Our goal was to get here safely."
The ride from New York wasn't without its challenges, however.
In Maryland, two vehicles were broken into and equipment was stolen. In Delaware, one of those same units was hit by a person under the influence of alcohol.
Fortunately, no one was hurt.
Bicyclists from the Kentucky leg rode through the campus of Virginia Tech on Friday, while others planned to ride to the site on Saturday.
On Saturday night, EMS personnel who gave the ultimate sacrifice will be remembered during the annual memorial service.
