It's been described a "Traveling Memorial Day" by some and an "American cultural phenomenon" by others as the Spirit Ride continues the unique journey it began in June of 2017 to promote public awareness of the Move Over law. The ceremonial Spirit casket has been relayed throughout the nation from tow truck to tow truck, and before year's end will have passed hands hands in 300 cities with truck processions totaling over 10,000 trucks from towing, fire, police and EMS.
The focal point of the ceremony is the Spirit casket: custom built to eight feet in length and painted by wrecker artist Cecil Burrows. The artwork features scenes of first responders working on the roadways, depicting the risks they face. One scene shows a towman carring the world on his back as cars whiz by. Another scene portrays a police officer at an accident scene with a truck bearing down on his back.
The color scheme of the casket represents patriotism and tragedy. On one end are red and white stripes and faded stars. On the other end are red, white and blue bars: red symbolizing the blood sacrified, white — the spirit of the fallen, and blue — the loss of the family.
The ceremony includes a blessing recited by all present and singing of "Bless the Spirit Riders," an original song composed as an anthem for the Spirit Ride.
Spirit Ride ceremonies also feature twirling rain sticks, color guards, Taps buglers, bagpipers and original folk songs performed live in tribute to first responders who have been struck down while working on the roadway. The man who built the casket, veteran singer/songwrite Mike Corbin, is on hand to sing the Spirit Ride's anthem, "Bless the Spirit Riders."
Processions of up to 100 trucks follow the casket, which carries the message, "Slow Down, Move Over." There is a Move Over law in each state, designed to protect first responders and other roadside workers, but according to the National Safety Commission, 71 percent of Americans are not aware of this law.
The Spirit Ride has been generating TV, radio, print and internet media coverage of its ceremonies and processions all across America, and most importantly its message of Slow Down, Move Over.
