This is the first year the Hampton Roads Chapter has been involved in the event. The chapter was formed by Virginia Beach Detective Scott Humphrey. Currently, there are three other chapters in the nation and the organization is growing rapidly. Since 1997, during the week preceding National Peace Officers Memorial Day on May 15, officers from these chapters ride their bicycles in unity to support the funding of the N.L.E.O.M.F. and to pay respects to the survivors and loved ones of the fallen officers who have died in the line of duty.
Each officer who participates in the ride must raise $1,250.00. Together they will deliver and present the Chairman of the N.L.E.O.M.F. with a check collected from their communities. Today, the Police Unity Tour is, and has been for the past four years, the largest contributor to the N.L.E.O.M.F.
The Hampton Roads Chapter will leave on May 11 and join together with the other Chapters as they near Washington. They will stay for the Memorial's Candlelight Vigil on May 13 as well as the National Peace Officer Memorial Day Service, held on the West Front grounds of the United States Capitol on May 15th.
For more information, including how to donate, visit the Police Unity Website at www.policeunitytour.org or e-mail Jeff Whitson at PortsPD757@aol.com and policeunity4@aol.com.
