JOLIET, Ill. – The 19th Annual Cycle Across Illinois charity bike ride brought together riders from the Illinois Chapter of Concerns Of Police Survivors (COPS) Saturday morning to pay tribute to Deputy Mike Queeney, who passed away from COVID-19 complications in 2022.
Retired Sergeant Earin Land joined around 100 men and women on this statewide journey, starting in Springfield and concluding in Rosemont. The Will County Sheriff’s Office, along with support staff and onlookers, gathered at the Will County Police Memorial to honor Deputy Queeney.
The event received immense gratitude from the Sheriff’s Office along with heartfelt appreciation from Deputy Queeney’s family.
Queeney is one of several fallen officers honored by Cycle Across Illinois, which began in 2005, as a memorial and fundraising bicycle ride that spans the state. Participants of the organization, composed of survivors, police officers, and supporters, embark on a multi-day journey to honor fallen law enforcement officers and raise funds for the Illinois Concerns of Police Survivors organization.
Riders departed from Springfield Thursday, remembering Deputy Sheriff Brian Norton. Since then, they made stops in Petersburg, Havana, Lewistown, Fairview, and Maquon, paying tribute to Deputy Sheriff Troy Chisum and Deputy Sheriff Nicholas D. Weist.
Tomorrow, cyclists will embark on their final day, starting from Ottawa and heading to Naperville, Downers Grove, Maywood, Forest Park, and Chicago. These last few stops will be filled with solemn remembrance as the riders pay tribute to law enforcement officers who gave their lives to protect and serve their communities.
The Cycle Across Illinois serves as a powerful platform to honor the sacrifice of law enforcement officers and to provide support and solace to their grieving families. The riders’ determination and dedication embody the spirit of unity and remembrance, creating a lasting impact in the communities they traverse.
For more information on the Cycle Across Illinois and how to contribute to this noble cause, please visit their website.
