Tue, 2010-09-07

The 7th Annual Remembrance Ride took place on Sunday 5th September 2010. The Commissioner of Police Michael Desilva was in attendance as well as other members of the Bermuda Police Service family, the Bermuda Long Riders Motorcycle Club and members of the public. The event is held each year to show support for the families and friends of the four lives tragically lost.

The ride is in remembrance of our three colleagues; Constable Stephen Symons, Constable Nicole O’Connor and Station Duty Officer Gladys Saunders as well as Corporation of Hamilton employee Manuel Pacheco. All four lost their lives on the Causeway on September 5th 2003 during Hurricane Fabian. Each year on a Sunday close to the anniversary, a procession of motorcycles makes its way from City Hall in the City of Hamilton to the Memorial Bench, erected in their honour, at Kindley Field Park in St. George's. Additionally a moment of silence is held at the Memorial Bench on the actual anniversary date each year.

This year, for the first time, the anniversary date (5th September) fell on a Sunday - so both activities were combined. The minute of silence took place at the Memorial Bench around 2:25pm – the time of the tragic incident.

For this year's event attendees were also encouraged to bring along a single carnation each. The flowers were placed into the sea after the minute of silence. [Pictured left: Commissioner DeSilva placing flowers on the Memorial Bench.]

As usual Remembrance pins were on sale, with all proceeds going to the September 5th Foundation to provide educational scholarships for the children of those who were lost.

Following the tribute at Kindley Field Park, the ride returned to the Prospect Police Rrecreation Club for a reception. [Photos courtesy of Bernews.] See more photos here & here.

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