By Hanna Singh
Lincoln Parish residents are invited to witness the National EMS Memorial Service Procession as it makes its way to Arlington, Virginia, through Ruston Saturday morning.
Hosted by Pafford EMS, the Ruston stop of this significant event will feature the Weekend of Honor Moving Honors procession. The procession and a brief ceremony will take place at 9 a.m. at the Downtown Ruston Historic Fire Station.
In recognition of the National EMS Memorial Bike Ride, the Ruston stop is part of a larger national initiative to honor EMS personnel through a long-distance cycling event. This event celebrates the lives of those who serve, those who have become sick or injured while performing their duties, and those who have died in the line of duty. This year, the national event will honor 36 individuals who lost their lives in service.
LA Operations Director for Pafford EMS Alex Pafford encouraged Lincoln Parish residents to attend the event, citing the educational value of the ceremony.
“Lincoln Parish residents should come join in honoring and recognizing the 36 EMS professionals that lost their lives in the line of duty across the United States,” Pafford said. “The ceremony will offer a brief overview of the national initiatives and also words on the impact the memorial has had on our local communities.”
Cyclists coming from the previous stop in Tyler, Texas will pass through Ruston on their journey to their final destination in Arlington. There will be a ceremony beginning at 9 a.m. to honor the 36 fallen first responders. The event will feature a wrapped ambulance vehicle, memorial artwork, and EMS personnel.
Those wishing to attend can gather at the Downtown Ruston Historic Firehouse, located at 200 E Mississippi Avenue. This event offers an opportunity to pay respects to the EMS individuals who serve every day and to learn about the organizations dedicated to honoring EMS providers.
