Greenbelt, Md. — Members of the Greenbelt Police Department began a multi-day bicycle journey Thursday from Philadelphia to Washington, D.C., joining thousands of officers nationwide participating in the Police Unity Tour to honor fallen law enforcement officers.
The riders, identified by the department as Team #108 from Police Unity Tour Chapter IX, are traveling mile by mile toward the nation’s capital ahead of National Police Week ceremonies recognizing officers who died in the line of duty.
“With every mile pedaled, they ride with purpose — honoring the heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice and ensuring their service and sacrifice are never forgotten,” the Greenbelt Police Department said in a Facebook post announcing the ride.
Annual ride supports remembrance and survivor families
The Police Unity Tour, founded in 1997, brings together law enforcement officers from across the country for long-distance rides ending in Washington each May. The event raises awareness for officers killed in the line of duty while supporting the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial and Museum.
Greenbelt officers joined Chapter IX riders departing from Philadelphia, one of several routes that converge in Washington during National Police Week.
Department officials described the journey as more than a ceremonial ride.
“This journey is more than a ride — it is a tribute, a promise, and a reminder that the law enforcement community will always stand together in remembrance of the fallen and in support of the families they left behind,” the department wrote.
Riders expected to travel city by city toward Washington
The department said it plans to share updates throughout the trip as officers continue south toward Washington. Community members were encouraged to leave messages of support online for Team #108 during the ride.
The annual event often draws emotional support from law enforcement families, survivors, and local communities along the route, where riders stop in cities and towns before reaching the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial.
Key Points
• Greenbelt Police officers began the Police Unity Tour ride from Philadelphia to Washington
• Team #108 is participating in Chapter IX of the national memorial event
• The ride honors fallen law enforcement officers and supports surviving families
National Police Week events draw officers from across the country
The Police Unity Tour coincides with National Police Week, which includes memorial ceremonies, survivor gatherings, and tributes for officers killed in the line of duty.
Law enforcement agencies nationwide participate annually, with riders often dedicating portions of the trip to specific officers or departments affected by line-of-duty deaths.
The Greenbelt Police Department did not specify how many officers are participating this year but said supporters can follow the team’s progress over the coming days as riders continue toward Washington.
The tour is expected to conclude in Washington during National Police Week remembrance events.
Greenbelt Police Department, Police Unity Tour, National Police Week, fallen officers