Nearly 200 cyclists rode through Northumberland County on their way to the Canadian Police And Peace Officers’ Memorial in Ottawa.
The 24th annual Canadian Police Memorial “Ride to Remember” is a way to honour fallen officers and make sure their sacrifice is never forgotten.
A total of 190 riders from 22 police services are taking part in this years ride.
Cyclists (police officers) were escorted by a number of police motorcycles from across the province who blocked off intersections as they made their way into Port Hope for a special presentation on Thursday, September 26, 2024.
Today’s Northumberland spoke with OPP Commissioner Thomas Carrique who has been a participant in the ride for 13 years.
“Every year is just as rewarding, every year is just as challenging and every year gives an opportunity to build new relationships both with cross policing and in communities.”
Riders started their journey on Wednesday at the Ontario Police College in Ayler, traveling 200 kilometres to Toronto on Wednesday, before embarking on their second day of the three day journey to Ottawa.
“Seeing people on the sidelines is absolutely incredible.”
Carrique said as the riders came into Port Hope there was a man standing along the roadway with a sign that said, “thank you.”
“I can tell you, that energizes each and every officer that’s here.”
“They aren’t looking for recognition. They just want to be respected and feel valued for the difficult job that they do.”
During the Sunday service, Carrique said that it’s a “overwhelming amount of emotion.”
“When you’re on Parliament Hill recognizing our fallen heroes, I often say it’s the strangest feeling. Your heart feels broken, and at the same time your heart is filled with pride.”
RCMP Const. Rick O’Brien was shot and killed in British Columbia in September 2023 and will have his name added to the Wall of Honour on Parliament Hill along with a number of historic deaths.
During every stop, members of the OPP Youth Foundation presented a bicycle to a youth in the community.
Gavin Davidson is in grade five at St. Anthony’s School in Port Hope was presented with a bicycle and helmet.
After the presentation Gavin thanked people for the bicycle and couldn’t wait to get on the bike and go for a ride.
Shortly after, the riders headed out on the next portion of their journey, going along County Road 2 and through Cobourg.
On September 24, 1998, the Government of Canada officially proclaimed the last Sunday of September of every year as the Police and Peace Officers’ National Memorial Day giveing Canadians an opportunity each year to formally express appreciation for the dedication of police and peace officers who make the ultimate, tragic sacrifice to keep communities safe.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
