Aldergrove welcomes Rolling Barrage riders at end of cross-country trip

Aldergrove residents, Royal Canadian Legion members, firefighters and police helped welcome the Rolling Barrage on Saturday as more than 100 motorcyclists reached the end of their cross-country journey.

The riders arrived at the Aldergrove legion shortly after 3 p.m., travelling down 264 Street and turning onto 32 Avenue. Township firefighters displayed a large Canadian flag from a fire apparatus, while people from across the Lower Mainland lined the route with flags.

The 21-day ride marked the 10th year of the Rolling Barrage, which raises awareness and financial support for Canadian Armed Forces members, veterans and first responders affected by post-traumatic stress. Foundation founder Scott Casey said 105 riders took part this year and credited legion branches and the staging team that organized each arrival.

Lead tail gunner and medic Dez Desjardins said the group’s size created added challenges. Safety teams worked with police to manage traffic and intersections, while tail gunners assisted riders with mechanical and medical issues during the trip.

After the arrival, riders went to a local hotel before the Aldergrove legion hosted a dinner, speeches and awards. Langley RCMP Const. Dennis Bell, who took part in the welcome, said the reception was emotional and that a rider told him it was among the best welcomes of the journey.