As the National Day of Service and Remembrance draws near, 500 volunteers and workers from companies affected by 9/11 came together Sept. 6 to assemble bicycles for the children of active duty service members.
The fourth-annual event was organized by the 9/11 Tribute Center in partnership, with the USO, a nonprofit that supports America’s troops and their families.
Community spirit was high among participants, who wanted to create something positive for those involved in ongoing efforts to protect America’s freedoms.
Chief John Ryan and other well-built men of the Port Authority Police Department set to work on a bike suited for a 5- or 6-year-old.
“I have fond memories when I saw my son and daughter ride their bike for the first time,” Ryan said. Ryan lost 37 men on 9/11 and spent nine months in the recovery efforts.
“It’s great to help out,” added officer Bryan Ross.
The New York Fire Department was well represented as Dan Squire, 46, of Ladder 4, set his men to work. The well-tuned crew dutifully topped the day’s record, assembling 16 bikes.
“These men and women did a great thing and this is our way to give back,” said Squire, who was on the ground 11 years ago and lost 15 men.
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