The 9-11 Memorial Coalition was born from tragedy, patriotism, and an unwavering promise that America would never forget.
Just four days after the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, a small group of local riders gathered in North Central Pennsylvania to express their grief, patriotism, and resolve. What began as an emotional protest ride soon transformed into something far greater—a lasting memorial dedicated to honoring the nearly 3,000 lives lost on September 11, the brave first responders who answered the call, and the military men and women who have since made the ultimate sacrifice in the War on Terror.
Founded by Thomas “Tank” Baird, Father John Manno, and a dedicated team of volunteers, the ride quickly became a symbol of unity, freedom, and resilience. Each year, more riders joined the procession, more American flags lined the route, and more communities embraced the mission of remembrance.
Today, the 9-11 Memorial Ride has grown into one of the largest annual 9/11 memorial motorcycle rides in the United States. Thousands of motorcycles travel more than 42 miles through Lycoming County, Pennsylvania, while tens of thousands of spectators gather along the route to wave flags, cheer the riders, and pay tribute to those who sacrificed everything. What began as a local act of remembrance has become a nationally recognized “rolling memorial” that continues to inspire communities across the country.
As the years passed, the Coalition’s mission naturally expanded. While remembering the victims of September 11 remains at its heart, the organization also honors military personnel, veterans, law enforcement officers, firefighters, EMS personnel, and local heroes who have given their lives in service to others. Every annual ride serves as a reminder that the sacrifices made for our freedom did not end on September 11—they continue wherever Americans stand in defense of our nation and our communities.
Beyond the annual ride, the Coalition has become an organization dedicated to education, service, and community involvement. Members visit local schools to share the story of September 11 with younger generations, encouraging students to appreciate the freedoms they enjoy and the sacrifices that protect them. The Coalition has also supported scholarship funds, veterans’ organizations, families of fallen heroes, and other community initiatives that carry the spirit of remembrance far beyond a single day each year.
The story of the Coalition has reached audiences well beyond Pennsylvania. The PBS documentary Remember. Honor. Ride. chronicled the remarkable organic growth of the event, capturing how one community’s commitment to remembrance evolved into a nationally recognized tradition. For many participants, the annual ride is more than a motorcycle event—it’s a chance to reconnect, reflect, and reaffirm the values that unite Americans.
Although the ride has grown dramatically over more than two decades, its purpose has never changed. Every motorcycle, every American flag, every memorial service, and every volunteer represents a promise made in the days following September 11, 2001—that the victims would never be forgotten, that those who continue to serve would always be honored, and that future generations would understand the true cost of freedom.
Today, the 9-11 Memorial Coalition remains entirely volunteer-driven and community-supported. Through the dedication of riders, veterans, first responders, local businesses, sponsors, volunteers, and countless families, the Coalition continues to preserve the memory of September 11 while honoring all those who have answered the call to serve.
More than twenty years later, our mission remains as strong as ever:
Remember. Honor. Never Forget.
