September 11, 2001, is a date most Americans will never forget. The tragedy shook the lives of many Americans, and this is also true for Mark Rossney.
Rossney was employed as the Senior Director at R News during the 9/11 terrorist attacks. He recalls seeing footage of the attack at work that he will never forget. “It shook me to the core,” he said. Rossney had trouble sleeping after seeing horrifying footage most Americans did not see. “After many sleepless nights, I decided I needed to help.”
He chose to put together a motorcycle ride fundraiser with the help of Cycle Stop, and three days after the tragic event shook the world, Operation Patriot was born. Rossney founded this now 20-year-old 501(c)3 nonprofit organization in direct response to the desire to help others after the 9/11 attacks. The all-volunteer organization pays tribute to those who lost their lives on 9/11 in an effort to save and protect others, and also raises funds to support police, fire, and military heroes in their time of need.
Operation Patriot held its first ride on September 30, 2001, just 19 days after the deadliest attack on our country. They named the tribute ride “Let’s Roll!” based on the last words heard from Todd Beamer aboard United Flight 93. Beamer was one of the passengers who attempted to regain control of the aircraft from the hijackers. The plane crashed in a field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, missing its intended target and sparing untold lives.
The ride takes place each year on the Saturday closest to September 11. Proceeds are donated to a selected nonprofit organization that rotates each year, supporting fire, police, and military personnel.
On Saturday, September 11, 2021, Operation Patriot held its “Let’s Roll!” 20th Anniversary 9/11 Tribute Ride and Concert. According to Rossney, “The event itself is comprised of multiple pieces – the ride, the ceremony, and the concert. The ride and concert are a tribute to those who are currently serving in fire, law enforcement, first responders, and military. The ceremony is a memorial ceremony to commemorate those who we lost in the line of duty.”
The sunny 80-degree day set the stage for an incredible turnout, with nearly 1,000 motorcycles in attendance. The ride began in the morning at Ontario Beach Park and rode through Greece, Hilton, Hamlin, Brockport, Spencerport, and back to the park where the memorial ceremony and concert took place. The ride was escorted by six law enforcement agencies – Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, New York State Police, Greece Police, Rochester Police Department, Brockport Police, and Ogden Police – along with six area fire departments and the Patriot Guard Riders. Retired MCSO Major Neil Flood coordinated road closings and multi-agency support throughout the entire ride.
The ride stopped, and participants gathered at the 9/11 Memorial in Brockport, where riders paid tribute and received a warm welcome from the village as well as support from the fire and police departments. The ride then continued east through Spencerport and back to the Ontario Beach Park. “Throughout the entire ride, all we saw was support,” said Rossney. “Every town had residents out waving flags.”
The ceremony at Ontario Beach Park featured the LBS Highlanders Pipes and Drums, Spencerport’s American Idol contestant Brianna Collichio singing the National Anthem, MCSO Honor Guard, Guest of Honor Patty Pierson (sister of slain RPD officer Darryl Pierson), and music by Takin’ it to the Streets/the Ultimate Doobie Brothers Tribute Show. Food and drink vendors were present. Hot food was provided by Patsy’s Porkers, a firefighter-owned catering service that teamed up with Zweigle’s. “Ken Cubiotti fed the masses,” said Rossney.
Many area residents participated in the event in remembrance of all who lost their lives on 9/11 as well as to show gratitude to the first responders and military servicemen and women for their sacrifices.
Spencerport residents Phyllis and Terry Bruton were first-time participants in the event. “This ride was incredibly heartwarming and uplifting,” said Phyllis. “It was moving to see so many people out showing support. People were lined up on street corners waving flags, older men saluting, others with their hands over their hearts, children and families waving the American flag and holding signs reading ‘We will never forget.’”
The proceeds from this year’s event are being presented to the Genesee Valley Concerns of Police Survivors. It is a local nonprofit organization that helps first responders who are injured in the line of duty.
To learn more about Operation Patriot Foundation, Inc., its sponsors, and future events, visit http://www.operationpatriot.org/.
Photos provided unless otherwise noted
Motorcyles filled parking lots and lined the streets when the ride paused in Brockport so participants could pay their respects at the 9/11 Memorial.
