‘Ronnie’s Ride’ honors fallen soldier

By Dana Griffin

dgriffin@abc6.com

@DanaGriffinABC6

CRANSTON, RI- You could hear the intense jet–like engine revs from a far as nearly 300 motorcyclists drove into the Rhode Island Veterans Cemetery.

Ron Gill Sr., said, “It’s really great that all these people come out year after year to support Ronnie’s Foundation. We really appreciate that.”

This is the 7^th Ronnie’s Ride, a 100–mile fundraiser drive honoring Cranston coast guardsman Ronald Gill Jr., who was killed in 2007 while conducting operations in Puget Sound.

Each year the bike run begins at Ronnie’s alma mater, Cranston West High School to RI Veterans Cemetery in Exeter, then on to Scarborough Beach in Narragansett.

Known for his mischievous sense of humor and infectious smile, seeing the number of supporters at his grave site still gets his father choked up.

“Seven years ago when we gave out the first scholarship to a Cranston West and Johnson and Wales University [student] that we would have exceeded $200,000, I would have never have imagined it,” said Gill.

Ronnie’s daughter Gracie, born months after he died, had just three special words to say about her dad, “That I love him.”

Rider, Mike Dalmazzi said, “I never had the pleasure of meeting Ronnie myself but getting involved in this kind of brings us a little bit closer.”

“Veterans helping veterans” is part of The Combat Vets Motorcycle Association’s mission. They help organize the annual event and hope citizens gain a greater appreciation for those who make the ultimate sacrifice.

“A sense of patriotism and to support veterans; you can hate a war, but do not hate the warrior,” said supporter, Daniel Thurston.

The money is raised through a $25 donation to ride.

Ronnie’s father said if his son could see the amount of support and money raised, he’d be extremely proud.

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