Monroe County firefighter Jake Werner will honor Monroe County Fire Rescue’s fallen brother Herve Thomas in the 2023 Brotherhood Ride on Friday, Oct. 27.
The Brotherhood Ride consists of firefighters, police officers and EMS personnel who ride bicycles to honor first responders who have died in the line of duty. Thomas passed away while on duty in May 2021. The organization’s mission is to provide emotional and financial support to the families of fallen heroes.
This year’s ride is dedicated to Florida’s 27 fallen heroes who died in the line of duty in 2022. Werner and others on the team will pedal nine days from Naples to Miami, covering 600 miles, averaging 70 to 90 miles daily. Werner also rode in the 2022 ride in honor of Thomas.
“Firefighter Werner continues to represent Monroe County Fire Rescue in this ride to remember our fallen heroes across the state and our fallen brother Herve Thomas,” said Monroe County Deputy Fire Chief RL Colina. “We thank Jake for his willingness to participate and represent the Florida Keys in this annual event.”
Werner, of Key Largo, knew and worked with Thomas for more than 10 years and wanted to do this to honor his memory. He has been riding his bike regularly, averaging 20 to 25 miles daily to prepare.More information is at www.brotherhoodride.com.
