Downey Police pay tribute to fallen officers with 300-mile ride

Downey police officers participated in the 300-mile Police Unity Tour earlier this month. (Courtesy photo)

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Four officers from the Downey Police Department traveled 300 miles by bicycle earlier this month as part of the annual Police Unity Tour, riding in honor of two fallen Downey officers who died in the line of duty.

Officers Adan Avila, Manuel Castro, Anthony Cantero and Rebeca Smith participated in the four-day ride from New Jersey to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C., joining nearly 2,100 law enforcement officers and support personnel from across the country. Rain or shine, they pedaled to honor the memory of Downey Police Officer Ricardo “Ricky” Galvez and Officer Wayne Presley.

Galvez, a Marine Corps veteran, was shot and killed in November 2015 during an attempted robbery while sitting in his parked vehicle outside the Downey police station. He was 29. Presley was killed in a motorcycle crash while responding to a call in March 1981. He was 32 years old.

The Police Unity Tour was founded in 1997 by Florham Park, New Jersey Officer Patrick Montuore to raise public awareness about officers who have died in the line of duty and to ensure their sacrifices are never forgotten. What began with 18 riders has grown into a national movement, with participants raising funds and training year-round for the solemn journey.

The Unity Tour culminates at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial, where riders are met by friends, families, and survivors of the fallen — a powerful moment of reflection and honor for those who continue to serve.