CLINTON TOWNSHIP -- Nearly 3,000 motorcyclists took part in an annual 9/11 ride through Lycoming County, despite Wednesday’s inclement weather.
With the roar of their engines, one after the other, motorcyclists came down Route 54 in Lycoming County. Spectators watched from their yards in support of the riders.
“We come here every year, our cousins Lance Kennedy and Renee Kennedy open their yard for us all to come out and support the riders and especially tonight with the weather the way it is,” said Denise Miller of Montgomery.
It was the 12th annual 9/11 Coalition ride, organized in honor of those who responded during the attacks on September 11, those who were lost that day and those who continue to fight.
The 37-mile ride winds through several parts of Lycoming County with the starting and ending point at the Clinton Township Fire House in Montgomery.
“We need to remember the suffering that our fellow countrymen have been through, armed services overseas, that suffer and fight to protect our freedom,” said Jason Bolt of Williamsport.
“It's all about 9/11, it's all about the veterans, it's just a wonderful time,” said Lynn Krape of Lock Haven.
The event is organized by the 9/11 Coalition, formed by first responders in the county just days after the attacks.
Organizers said nearly 3,000 riders came out, which is down from years past. With the rainy weather, they said the ride was a success.
“It's amazing to see, even when you do the ride route, of all the participation, everybody out, go to the roads, all the flags flying, waving, cheering everything else,” said Ron Winder, treasurer of the Clinton Township Fire Company.
“All these people are patriots here, they're all patriotic, they stand up for America, the things that happened back on 9/11 are all very tragic and these people still feel the pain today, and they're coming out to show their support,” said Army veteran Jim Hotchkiss of Williamsport.
Members of the 9/11 Coalition said there is no fee to participate in the ride, but donations are collected.
All money raised goes back to first responders in Lycoming County, who are either injured or killed in the line of duty.