Grn Petawawa welcomes Rolling Barrage

By Patricia Leboeuf | September 12, 2019 | Local
Four people stand behind motorcycle, other motorcycles and people in background
(Left to right) Master Corporal Matthew Hewitt, Corporal Stephanie Bergeron, Corporal Justin Depatie and Head Organizer Scott “Bronco” Casey stand in the parking lot with a donated white motorcycle, which an Afganistan veteran rode to complete the ride. (Photo by Patricia Leboeuf, Petawawa Post)

A ‘Rolling Barrage’of about 85 motorcyclists arrived in Petawawa on Sunday, August 11.

Bringing together military members, First Responders and those who support them, the group made their way across Canada, starting in Nova Scotia on Aug. 5 and finishing in British Columbia at the end of the month.

The riders of this 3rd Annual Cross-Canada Motorcycle Rally took a well-deserved break at the CANEX Supermart, meeting with supporters and mingling over a BBQ meal.

The fundraiser presented by Military Minds Inc. has been showing those who are suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and other Operational Stress Injuries (OSI) that they are not alone. Though it helps raise money to help Military Mind Inc programs, it also serves to show veterans and First Responders that they aren’t alone in their struggles.

Though many were on the road since the start, riders were invited to come and go as desired. For the Aug. 11 ride, the group started in Hawkesbury, Ont. and made a stop in Ottawa, where they were greeted by over 3,000 people.

“It was absolutely fantastic,” said Military Minds Inc. President and head organizer Scott “Bronco” Casey. “It is overwhelming, and humbling as well.”

The goals of the event are simple.

Several people driving motorcycles on road
The Rolling Barrage is in its third year and has made its way across Canada to raise funds and show support for those with Post-traumatic Stress Disorder and other Operational Stress Injuries. (Left) The group of about 85 people included military members, First Responders, veterans and supporters, and on Aug. 11, the group made their way to Garrison Petawawa’s CANEX Supermart. There they stopped for a little while for a barbecue, and to mingle with supporters. (Photo by Patricia Leboeuf, Petawawa Post)

Organizers want to create a community where those suffering from PTSD can find support, and know that they aren’t alone. Though not all who joined the ride have it, they all know somebody who has been battling mental illness. It is a chance for people to speak together, and share their stories in a place of non-judgment as most have gone through similar challenges.

They still had a long way to go before arriving at their final destination, but they were confident they would continue their journey without incident, garnering more support along the way.

“Every day in the saddle is a good day,” said Casey, estimating there would be another 12 days before they reach the end.

“As soldiers and First Responders, we have all had tougher days,” he added.

He and his fellow riders were very thankful to those in Petawawa who came out to greet them. They were led into the CANEX parking lot by military police and firefighters, where civilians and military members warmly greeted them.

Casey wanted to thank Indian Motorcycle in particular, who donated a white motorcycle to the cause, allowing an Afghanistan veteran to ride during the entire Rolling Barrage.