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GREENWICH, Conn. Hundreds of motorcyclists are expected to gather in Greenwich on Aug. 18, when the town hosts the states meeting point for America's 9/11 Foundations memorial Sept. 11 three-day ride. Four Greenwich officers from the police departments traffic section have volunteered to escort the riders to each destination.
We all have a personal connection with the events that occurred on 9/11, said Sgt. John Slusarz of the traffic section. He will escort the motorcyclists with Officers Ron Carolsela, Scott Johnson and Vincent Loria. We were all officers working at that time. We all were sent down to the city and worked at the site. We have personal reasons to be there.
The trip kicks off Friday, Aug. 19, in Somerset, Pa., at the Flight 93 National Memorial. It continues Saturday, Aug. 20, in Arlington, Va., and ends Sunday, Aug. 21, at the World Trade Center site in Manhattan. There will be speakers, food and music along the way. Americas 9/11 Foundation, a nonprofit established in 2003 after two successful memorial rides, coordinates the nationwide event.
Greenwich police were contacted earlier this year to volunteer to escort the Northeast riders. Last year, more than 2,000 motorcyclists from across the country took part. For the 10th anniversary, the foundation is expecting even more.
When youve got a group this big, its not just a bunch of people riding together. You have to think of everything from traffic control, to lodging and refueling, said Slusarz. Youve also got to consider theyre going to be brand-new riders, very experienced riders, and really riders from all walks of life. They need support.
Riders from around the state and other parts of the Northeast will meet in the area off Exit 5 of Interstate 95 at 6 a.m. Aug. 18. The department contacted businesses in the area to be prepared for the influx of motorcyclists. Starbucks, McDonalds and CVS will be open early for the occasion. At eight oclock sharp, were all getting on the road to head down to Pennsylvania, and were going to ride as one, said Slusarz.
For more information and to sign up for the three-day ride, visit http://americas911ride.org
What other 9/11 commemoration events do you know of in the area? Comment below or email ahelhoski@thedailygreenwich.com
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