Motorcyclists took to the streets of Decatur Thursday to commemorate the lives of those who made the ultimate sacrifice on the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.

DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) — Motorcyclists took to the streets of Decatur Thursday to commemorate the lives of those who made the ultimate sacrifice on the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. 

Coziahr Harley Davidson hosted their annual 9/11 Memorial Ride. Donnie Hampsmire, a parts associate at Coziahr, said he has participated in the ride every year.

"This is something we've done every year since the memorial was erected. And, it's something that's near and dear to our hearts," Hampsmire said.

Local first responders escorted the group—led by Illinois ABATE—to the Lake Decatur 9/11 Memorial. There, community members gathered to pray, sing and find solace with each other. 

Hampsmire said the ride not only commemorates the lives lost on Sept. 11, but also Debbie Coziahr, who was dedicated to fundraising the memorial. 

"I think it was important to Debbie because, like, Harley Davidson, it presented a chance to be proud of America in a time that we had been hurt really, really bad. So it was good to give back," Hampsmire said.

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