Motorcycle run to benefit troops overseas

Bristol’s version of Rolling Thunder will take place on Sunday, Sept. 10, rain or shine, with the Front Line Ministry Ride for Freedom motorcycle run.

The ride, which will benefit the brave men and women serving our country overseas, will start and finish at Jacky’s Galaxie & Sushi Bar, 383 Metacom Ave.

“This year is our 7th annual motorcycle ride,” noted event co-chairman David Benevides. “Registration begins at 10:30 a.m., and the ride leave at 12 noon, sharp. We will have the Bristol Police Motorcycle Division escorting us on the ride. There is a donation of $20 per person.”

Riders will be leaving Jacky’s going over the Mt. Hope Bridge into Portsmouth, then Tiverton, Little Compton, and back to Bristol.

“There will be coffee and pastries before the ride starts, plus music and raffle prizes,” said Mr. Benevides. “In the event of rain, lunch will still be held.”

Front Line Ministry for Freedom is a group of people “who are committed and love what they are doing,” Mr. Benevides said,

“Our goal is to pray for our troops on a daily basis and to send care packages with some of the comforts of home,” he said. “We have individuals in our organization who have been on the battlefield and know the value of home based support. We have sent over a 1000 care packages from the time we started, and with the support from everyone, we are now sending 12 care packages a month. 

“If you know of a soldier that is overseas,” he continued, “please email us their contact information at FLMFF401@gmail.com so we can send them a care package or a whole division of soldiers, because we are always looking for names; it doesn’t matter where they live in the United States, we support everyone.”

As one might expect, Mr. Benevides and his group is hoping for good weather the day of the ride. But, weather conditions won’t curtail the efforts of this dedicated group of people whose objective each year is to make life a little more bearable for those serving this country overseas.

“We’re hoping for another great turnout,” said Mr. Benevides. “It should be another great ride.”

Mr. Benevides is being assisted in planning this event by Gail Devine and other devoted Front Line Ministry members and local volunteers. Since its inception, this event will also feature support from the Bristol Fire Dept., and Victoria Carroll, who will sing the National Anthem.