HENRICO COUNTY, Va. -- Thousands of people are cycling through Central Virginia Thursday to remember police officers killed in the line of duty during the second day of Law Enforcement United's "Road to Hope.”
The 250-mile ride kicked off Wednesday in Chesapeake, and will end later today at Arlington National Cemetery in northern Virginia.
Officers from across the country are participating, along with the loved ones of fallen officers, and many others.
One of those on the minds of cyclists is Virginia State Trooper Chad Dermyer, who was shot and killed at Richmond’s Greyhound bus station a year ago.
Because of the bike ride, drivers can expect heavy traffic on Route 1 northbound in Henrico and Hanover counties until about 1 p.m.
'Bike for the Blue'
Additionally, more than 20 members of the Richmond Police Department will join other members of law enforcement to cycle 110 miles to the nation's capital Saturday in honor of the officers who died in the line of duty.
Those taking part in "Bike for the Blue" will ride on Route 1 up to DC to meet colleagues from across the country for the Law Enforcement Memorial ceremony.
The department will remember the 29 RPD officers who gave their lives for the city.
“We organize this ride every year to honor those who lost their lives protecting the citizens and making the communities safer,” RPD Sgt. Anthony Papaleo said. “This year is particularly special because the Metro Richmond Police Emerald Society will be the featured pipes and drums performers during Saturday evening’s candlelight vigil at the National Mall.”
