The Rockwell City Fire Department is preparing to host the 10th Annual Hometown Heroes Memorial Ride this Saturday in memory of fallen police officers and firefighters. All vehicles are welcome to travel the 162-mile route, stopping at four fire stations to share stories and remember the three hometown heroes. Todd Richardson, who is on the planning committee for this event, says what started out honoring just one fallen police officer expanded to honor multiple heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice keeping the public safe.
Registration will open at 10:00 a.m. at the Rockwell City Fire Department. The cost will be $25 per vehicle, which includes one t-shirt and a punch card for a chance to win half of a hog with a completed card. Richardson says something is planned at each stop.
After Panora, all participants will return to Rockwell City to the Expo Building at the city park for supper and the live and silent auction. Richardson says local businesses and individuals donated items such as a handmade metal fire pit and two sets of youth golf clubs, and there was a chance to win three bigger prizes.
All proceeds from the ride will go to the Hometown Heroes Memorial Scholarship, awarded to seniors pursuing a degree in criminal justice, fire science, or any emergency service. The organization also supports community projects throughout Rockwell City. Again, tomorrow (Saturday) is the annual Hometown Heroes Memorial Ride, with registration beginning at 10:00 a.m. and the ride at 11:00 a.m. Richardson, the Hometown Heroes Committee, and the Rockwell City Fire Department hope for all to join to help honor the three heroes and continue to support future emergency public servants.