Chattanooga, TN – Five officers from the Chattanooga Police Department are among a dedicated group participating in the Law Enforcement United Inc. Tough Ride XL, a cycling event designed to honor fallen law enforcement officers and support their surviving family members.
The “XL” portion of the ride began on May 5 in Chattanooga, Tennessee, and will ultimately conclude in Washington, D.C. On May 9, the most physically challenging stretch—dubbed the “Tough” leg—officially began in Roanoke, Virginia.
Accompanied by 20 fellow cyclists, the Chattanooga officers have already covered hundreds of miles. In Roanoke, they were joined by additional law enforcement personnel and survivors of the fallen, who came together to continue the ride with a renewed sense of unity and remembrance.
Throughout the journey, riders have made several stops to pay tribute at memorials along the route, reflecting on the sacrifices of those lost in the line of duty. Their most recent leg took them 110 miles from Roanoke to Harrisonburg, Virginia, with favorable weather helping to ease the strain of the long-distance ride.
Beyond honoring fallen colleagues, the ride also serves a critical fundraising mission. The event raises money for programs and services that support the families of officers who have died in service to their communities.
The riders are expected to reach Washington, D.C. in the coming days, where the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial hosts annual commemorative events during National Police Week. For the Chattanooga officers and their fellow riders, every mile brings them closer to both their destination and their shared goal: ensuring the sacrifices of the fallen are never forgotten.