Gearing up for the 22nd annual 9-11 Memorial Ride
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The 22nd annual 9-11 Memorial Ride will again wind its way through Lycoming County on Monday, Sept. 11.
The route will remain the same as it has been for many of those years.
"Our parade will take thousands of motorcycles through Williamsport and surrounding communities and, in effect, through small-town America," said Gary Smith, 9-11 Coalition vice president.
"One of the secrets to the tremendous curbside support that we have seen over the years is being familiar on that route," he added.
With the motto "Never Forget," the ride is a rolling memorial to those that lost their lives that terrible day and to the fallen in the war on terror.
"We also take the opportunity to honor the first responders and veterans in our communities," said Tank Baird, president of the coalition.
"These brave men and women have committed their lives to keeping us safe and should be recognized for the sacrifices they have made," Baird said.
The first motorcycle ride was held just four days after the attack. It was an angry and emotional protest to the events of 9-11-01, but by the first anniversary it had morphed into the memorial that takes place today.
Lycoming County Sheriff Mark Lusk and the Lycoming County Sheriff's Department will escort the ride with many fire and police units providing traffic control along the entire 42-mile route.
The crowds on the streets and country lanes have been estimated at 20,000 people with many showing their support by waving American flags and holding signs.
It is an emotional experience," said Chief Todd Winder of the Clinton Township Fire Co.
"You sometimes think that patriotism is not what it used to be but this ride can restore some of your faith in America and its people," he said. "It is very emotional."
The 9-11 Memorial Ride starts and ends at the Clinton Township Fire Co. station on Route 54 near Montgomery. The gates open at 10 a.m. There will be merchandise vendors and food vendors for snacks and meals available.
A Blessing of the Bikes with the Rev. Bill Stankiewicz is at 3 p.m.
The memorial service begins at 5 p.m. with guest speaker Maj. Gen. John Gronski, U.S. Army retired. Gronski has 40 years of military service.
The ride begins promptly at 6 p.m.
The riders and non-riders are invited to the fire company grounds for the memorial service and all activities.
Car parking will be available nearby or show support for the riders along any number of places along the parade route.
The parade map and information are on Facebook or at the coalition website at 911memorialcoalition.org.
Phone calls can be placed at 570-244-6153.
The ride is free but donations are appreciated. Participants are encouraged to join the coalition afterwards for fellowship with music provided by "Pepper Street Band."