In 1997, “The Police Unity Tour” was organized by Officer Patrick P. Montuore of the Florham Park Police Department, with the hope of bringing public awareness of police officers who have died in the line of duty, to honor their sacrifices, and ensure that they are never forgotten. Newark Police Officer Hernandez Thomas, one of the bikers, is making his 15th ride with the Tour. The Tour began with 18 bikers 16 years ago. Last year, more than 1,500 police officers from across the nation and world made the trip, raising $1.5 million for the museum and memorial.
On Wednesday May 9th, 2012 over 200 police officers bicyclists started their tour from New York City’s Ground Zero to Washington D.C. to raise awareness and funds for the National Law Enforcement Officer’s Memorial and Museum. On their way, they stopped at the Newark Police Memorial on Franklin Street full of energy and discipline. They received a warm welcome from the Newark Police Department and from Police Director Samuel A. DeMaio and Newark Police Chief Sheilah A. Coley. The family of late Newark Police Detective Michael Morgan, who was shot outside a Paterson Strip Club while stopping an attempted armed robbery, was honored.
The mother of Michael Morgan said that his son was behind all of the officers who were bicycling to Washington, and he may even tap them on the back while bicycling.
Also, Councilman Carlos Gonzalez and Mayor Cory A. Booker’s Chief of Staff Modia Butler were in attendance.
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