Friday, May 7, 2010

10 From CCSO Heading To Police Unity Tour

Ten Collier County Sheriff’s Office members are set to participate in the 2010 Police Unity Tour 250-mile bicycle ride next week.

The Police Unity Tour is a 250-mile, three-day bicycle ride that begins in Portsmouth, Va., and ends in Washington, D.C., at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial. The goal of the event is to honor law enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty and to raise money for the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial and Museum in the nation’s capital.

The ride takes place May 10-12. The event ends with an emotional candlelight ceremony at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial on May 13.

Sgt. Mark Williamson will mark his fifth year riding in the event.

“I feel that it is important to participate in the Police Unity Tour to help spread awareness to the public and provide support for the fallen officers’ family and co-workers,” Sgt. Williamson said. “Law enforcement officers have an inherently dangerous job. It is important that we not let the fallen heroes be forgotten.

Sgt. Williamson added, “Each year there are approximately 150 law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty. Behind every name there is a story. We cannot afford to let these stories be forgotten.” This will be his fifth year riding in the event.

This will mark Cpl. Bruce Cordivari’s 10th year participating in the Police Unity Tour.

Participants are divided into two categories: riders and support. Riders pedal the route, while members of the support team keep cyclists supplied with drinks and food to keep them hydrated and healthy along the route. Support team members also take care of an array of pre-event tasks like ordering supplies and lining up accommodations along the route.

And all participants – whether they ride or support – must raise a minimum of $1,800. Anyone wishing to make a contribution can donate online at www.firstgiving.com/teamcollier.

The CCSO contingent is made up of:

Krista Williamson (director of support)
Chris Warden (support)
Cpl. Dan Darren (support)
Sgt. Mark Williamson (rider)
Cpl. Matt Macera (rider)
Cpl. Bruce Cordivari (rider)
Cpl. Bob Nixon (rider)
Sgt. Darren Larson (rider)
Sgt. Mark Carroll (rider)
Cpl. Darrell Kehne (rider)