582 miles and 22 honor stops for 2026 Brotherhood Ride
By MEGHAN BRADBURY
mbradbury@breezenewspapers.com Twenty-two first responders were honored during the 2026 Brotherhood Ride — an emotional journey that continues to impact the lives of two of Sanibel’s first responders who participate every year.
Sanibel Fire & Rescue District Deputy Chief John DiMaria said the ride went well.
The first three days the bikers encountered 10 to 20 mph head wind as they traveled north to the center of the state before it turned into a crosswind and eventually a tail wind as they headed south.
“Unless there is a severe threat to any safety, we keep riding,” he said, adding that President Jeff Morse says they “ride through rain, weather, heat, and cold because of the mission to be served.”
Capt. Mike Martin said the weather conditions are nothing compared to what the honorees and their families have gone through.
“We can withstand a little bit of bad weather,” he said.
This year’s ride was a total of 582 miles from Oct. 17 through Oct. 23.
Martin said for the bulk of the ride there were 35 participants.
“We picked up some riders along the way to do a leg for someone in their department. For Miami-Dade Sheriff, they had 12 guys and gals join us for that leg of the ride,” he said.
Twenty-two Florida first responders were honored at honor stops along their journey.
“Some of the days were a little longer, but again, it wasn’t about when we were getting there. We were sent out to do and complete the mission,” DiMaria said.
Martin said at each honor stop, they try to get an opportunity to speak with the family and coworkers, but with the large number of riders it is not always possible.
“You may not get face time with the family, but someone does,” he said of the others who participate in the ride.
As with every year, the impact comes in different ways through the ride.
“For me, it was even more impactful because we honored a St. Lucie County firefighter who passed away last year. We met the family and the brother who is fighting for some law changes because of certain issues that occurred prior to his death,” DiMaria said of Firefighter Jarius Hodge, who was being honored.
The brother is also a firefighter in the same department.
Saturday morning they received a phone call.
“They found him (the brother) passed away in his bunk room. These rides are emotionally taxing as it is,” DiMaria said. “To hear that kind of news, it hit us a little harder. Unfortunately, each of the honorees, when you hear about how they passed — falling ill, something happening on the job, law enforcement officer being killed — it’s an emotional rollercoaster.”
DiMaria said the Brotherhood Ride is to honor the family, and the memory to make sure they are truly never forgotten.
“Jeff always says at the end of the ride — we do this because we want their memories to always stay alive and to make sure they never forget,” he said.
Martin said the thing that gets him the most is the packet of letters that Morse provides from families — either the current ride or past rides — sharing how grateful they are and the importance of continuing the cause.
“I think that is the most important thing to me. To read those stories and take a few minutes and connect with the families that way,” he said.
DiMaria said the letters provide a significant reason why they participate in the Brotherhood Ride, as the letters solidify what they are doing touches the families.
“We are making an impact — showing the family the reasoning why we are riding and truly honoring their memory and ensuring they are never forgotten. Those letters are pretty impactful,” he said.
The Brotherhood Ride is supported by the Elks Club throughout the ride, as it provides a place to eat and sleep.
This year’s journey included seven stops — Bradenton Elks Lodge No. 1511, Brooksville Elks Lodge No. 2582, Eustis Elks Lodge No. 1578, Cocoa Elks Lodge No. 1532, Stuart Jensen Elks Lodge No. 1870, Delray Beach Elks Lodge No. 1770 and Miami Elks Lodge No. 948.
“The Elks treat us very well. They go all out to take care of us. They do an amazing job,” Martin said.
He said unfortunately the ride and the mission continues next year.
“We always loose somebody every year. We will keep it going as long as it is necessary,” he said.
DiMaria agreed that he will continue to be involved every year, as long as his legs allow him to cycle.
Fundraising continues throughout the year for the Brotherhood Ride, with many activities happening locally.
“We truly appreciate the support throughout the year,” DiMaria said. “There are events we do throughout the year to continue the mission.”
They run the concession stands during the Art Walk in Downtown Fort Myers, as well as the concession at this year’s Celtic Fest in Fort Myers.
For more information about the Brotherhood Ride, visit www.brotherhoodride.com.