Fallen law enforcement officers honored with ‘Back the Blue’ Parade

BAY COUNTY, Fla. ( WMBB ) – Bikers from across the nation participated in a special Thunder Beach parade on Saturday.

The annual Back the Blue memorial ride honors fallen law enforcement officers such as Panama City Beach Police Sergeant Kevin Kight.

“It’s events like this that show how much our community loves our law enforcement. If you didn’t know Kevin, that guy was a friend to everybody. I was very lucky to have worked with him back in that time and always cherish the friendship that he and I had,” Bay County Sheriff’s Office Lt. Kevin Francis said.

Kight was killed in the line of duty during a traffic stop on March 27, 2005. Nearly 20 years later, his legacy, along with other fallen law enforcement officers, lives on through this parade.

“These guys go out on the line to keep us safe, whether it’s their life or not. Our lifeguards, firemen, EMTs, military. It’s amazing that they do it all to keep us free, and that’s what we’re thanking them for,” Event Organizer Josie Ferraioli said.

The Back the Blue parade also helps raise money for another cause close to the Panama City Beach Police Department’s heart.

“The event raises money for Panama City Beach Police Department’s Cops ‘n Kids program. We’ve been doing some excellent collecting the last couple of years, the most they’ve ever had. They’re really ecstatic about it, too. It’s all positive and a win-win all around with this event,” Ferraioli said.

Event organizers and law enforcement officers say the best part of the parade is the community support and unity.

“What I like most about these rides is the people on the side of the road that come out to support us. They wave and they’ve got flags and they’re just really having a great time,” Francis said.

“We’re all out here donating, hugging one another. It’s nice to see that and feel it. It’s a good feeling, “Ferraioli added.

Another Back the Blue memorial ride will take place during Thunder Beach in the spring.

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