The Police Unity Tour began with just 18 riders in 1997. Today, it's grown to over 2,000 officers biking 300 miles to honor fallen law enforcement heroes, raising more than $40 million for the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund.
In this powerful episode, founder and retired Police Chief Pat Montuore shares the inspiring story behind this remarkable movement. From its humble beginnings to becoming an international phenomenon, the Police Unity Tour represents the true spirit of the law enforcement brotherhood.
Episode Highlights:
- [00:02:40] How the Police Unity Tour began in 1997
- [00:15:30] The emotional connection riders make with survivors
- [00:24:17] The bracelet tradition honoring fallen officers
- [00:27:27] How the tour expanded internationally
- [00:32:27] Pat's life-changing heart attack during the Israel tour
- [00:36:55] Communities lining the route in support
Pat reveals how each rider carries a bracelet bearing a fallen officer's name, connecting with their families and ensuring their sacrifice is never forgotten. He also shares his own near-death experience during the Israel Police Unity Tour and how it transformed his perspective on life and service.
Along the journey, communities line the route with American flags and signs of support, demonstrating the deep connection between law enforcement and the citizens they serve. As Pat explains, "We're not against anything. All we're for is making sure we remember our fallen, and we let our citizens know that we serve them with honor."
Quote from Episode:
"It's not just about riding that bicycle. It's about educating not only the communities and states we go through, but educating everybody on that bicycle about their own agency who suffered and sacrificed themselves for them and their community."
Learn more at PoliceUnityTour.com and find ways to support law enforcement at CitizensBehindTheBadge.org.
Heroes Behind the Badge is proudly presented by Citizens Behind the Badge, the leading voice of the American people in support of law enforcement.
