Since Florida began keeping official records in 1842, a total of 996 police officers have lost their lives in the line of duty. About four years ago, the idea arose to build a motorcycle memorial for fallen Florida officers. However, due to a lack of funding, the project never got off the ground.
Momentum for the project started anew in the aftermath of negative police publicity in recent years. The idea was to make a tribute to the sacrifices of the brave men and women in the police force. The project’s purpose was not to add to the tense national political debate happening across the country but rather to memorialize the ultimate sacrifice made by the 996 Florida law enforcement officers.
It is a first-of-its-kind memorial — a fitting mobile memorial that family members and loved ones can visit, view, and remember. Read on to learn more about the bike, how the project came into existence, and where you can view it in person in 2023.
The Florida Memorial Motorcycle
In August of 2022, work finally began when the Palm Beach County Police Benevolent Association (PBA) raised funds for the project, which cost approximately $35,000. Nice Ride motorcycle shop in Palm City teamed up with Sonny’s Custom Cycle Works to build the bike. Typically, a custom bike of this type would run closer to $70,000.
The project included a full-frame restoration of a 1940s police motorcycle. The color scheme is appropriate, black and white. The custom Harley Davidson has a plate above the front wheel with the inscription, “Florida Police 1842.”
The memorial motorcycle includes the names of all 996 fallen Florida law enforcement officers inscribed on a carrying case attached to the bike. Visitors can find the name of their loved one when viewing the bike. Even if you have not personally known a fallen officer, the memorial is a powerful reminder of the dangers officers face daily and a way to honor their commitment.
The Motorcycle Memorial for Fallen Florida Officers 2023 Tour
If you would like to see the motorcycle memorial for fallen Florida officers, it is touring the entire state in 2023. The memorial motorcycle debuted on December 6, 2022, at the Palm Beach County Police Benevolent Association’s luncheon. It remained on display at their West Palm Beach headquarters through the holiday season.
However, the bike is spending 2023 on the road. The motorcycle will travel to all 67 counties in Florida during 2023. It will be on display at fundraisers and special events throughout the state. The fallen officers’ family members and loved ones are encouraged to visit it in their county, take pictures, and reminisce with friends.
You can contact the Palm Beach County Police Benevolent Association for dates and locations for its 2023 tour. Be sure to see the Motorcycle Memorial for Fallen Florida Officers when it is on display near you!
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