ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) – Officers across the country, killed in the line of duty, are set to be honored nationally in the coming week. Here in Albuquerque, local law enforcement is getting a head start by hosting an event that pays tribute to New Mexico’s fallen officers, every mile of the way.
“And so, we remember and honor them today,” said Barbara Tegtmeier, Head Chaplain for the Albuquerque Police Department.
Dozens set out on a 64-mile bike ride, all to remember those who’ve made the ultimate sacrifice. “The bike ride is in memory of all officers in the state of New Mexico who have lost their lives in the line of duty,” said Tegtmeier.
It’s the 14th year for the New Mexico Law Enforcement Memorial Bike Ride, and members of the community lined up outside of APD Main Police Station, ready for the event early Saturday morning. “The riders know why we do this, and they enjoy and look forward to it every single year,” said Tegtmeier.
The Albuquerque Police Department’s Motors Unit escorts all the riders to begin the race, as they travel to the New Mexico State Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Santa Fe. Along the way, riders stop by six locations in Albuquerque where seven officers have lost their lives.
“We will pause. We have an honor guard at each one of those locations with a memorial wreath to also remember each and every officer on the way, and that reminds us of not just those particular officers, but everyone who lost their lives,” said Tegtmeier.
The event also raises funds for APD’s Chaplain Unit, which is a nonprofit that supports officers and APD staff throughout the year. “If they have a need for medical care or help with a funeral, things like that. So that’s what we use all 100% of the funds for as we do the bike ride,” said Tegtmeier.
“We pause today to remember the fallen. Those who stood for justice, who protected their communities, and who are no longer with us,” said Tegtmeier.
There is also a shorter 30K version of the ride offered called The Ultimate Sacrifice.
