On Saturday, September 9 more than 600 motorcycles entered the village during the sixth annual “Operation Patriot.” Sheriff Patrick O’Flynn led the procession. They came to pay their respects to those lost on September 11, 2001 while at the same time honoring those that continue to serve. Each year the group selects a related charitable cause and uses the ride as a fundraiser. This year’s recipient was the Fallen Firefighters Foundation in Emmitsburg, Maryland. The first ride was held shortly after the attacks of 9/11 and has been held every year near the anniversary of the attacks. Last year the ride passed by the Monument during the twelve-hour vigil while they were escorted through the fire district by our apparatus, as well as fire trucks and police motorcycles from around the county. Fire Chief Larry Vaughan welcomed them to Brockport and thanked them for their service. Pastor Dave Smith, a biker himself, offered a prayer and asked for safe passage as they continued on their journey. Photographs by C. Martin. September 17, 2006 |
