Hope and I wanted to coordinate the Southern Route to create an environment that honors all the fallen EMS personnel. We envisioned a ride where all participants would support each other, spend quality time together, reflect on their story behind the dog tags, and promote a healthy bicycle ride. This isn’t just a bike ride; to us we help our “Southern family” that comes together annually to help the families and the EMS honor those we have lost.
We strive to encourage social interaction with everyone after a strenuous day of riding.
Our objective is to ensure a safe and enjoyable route, leaving everyone eager to return for another ride throughout the country and the Ride of Honor at the National EMS Memorial Service.
Here is more about Danny.
Where are you from?
Mt Airy, North Carolina
What is your EMS background?
Ibegan my journey in public safety as a Junior Firefighter, and at just 18, I earned my EMT certification to start volunteering. I truly loved helping people. I earned my degree in Emergency Medical Science and spent 16 years as a Paramedic and Hazmat Captain with Surry County Emergency Services. I was honored to be able to represent Surry County in numerous paramedic competitions. During my career, I also had the opportunity to serve in several deployments through NC SMAT to Hurricanes Katrina and Ivan.
Later, I took the role of Assistant Chief in the fire and medical department. I’ve had the honor of helping numerous people in my career in our small local community.
When did you start with NEMSMBR?
My first year on the ride was 2018.
What are your roles within NEMSMBR?
I have assisted with the Southern Route for 8 years now. I started riding and supporting the route in 2018 with Kate and Hope.
How long have you coordinated your ride?
This is my 3rd year.
What is your favorite section of the route?
Honoring the fallen and especially being able to meet the families. The core of our mission is to never forget to lift the families and their coworkers up in prayers and miles on the bicycle.
What are some of your hobbies?
I love to spend time with Hope and my two dogs, Murf and Cooper. I also enjoy going to the lake with family and helping out at church.
2026 Southern Route
Orientation (May 1) – Jamestown, VA, in the evening
Day 1 (May 2) – Virginia Capital Trail out and back to Jamestown, VA (80 miles)
Day 2 (May 3) – Jamestown, VA to Roanoke Rapids, NC (75 miles)
Day 3 (May 4) – Roanoke Rapids, NC to Smithfield, NC (78 miles)
Day 4 (May 5) – Smithfield, NC to Winston-Salem, NC (102 miles)
Day 5 (May 6) – Winston-Salem, NC to Mooresville, NC (shuttle to Gastonia, NC) (65 miles)
Day 6 (May 7) – Gastonia, NC to Spartanburg, SC (65 miles)
Day 7 (May 8) – Spartanburg, SC to Greenville, SC (featuring the Swamp Rabbit Trail) (60 miles)
**Any location is subject to change based on hotel availability, route geography, or other unforeseen circumstances*