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Elkhart, Ind. (September 11, 2002) - A special-edition red, white and blue Damon Escaper™ diesel motorhome escorted a cross-country motorcycle ride of over 150 firefighters and peace officers this September in honor of those who gave their lives on September 11, 2001.

The "2002 Firefighters Memorial Ride" started on September 5 in Lakewood, Colo., and traveled to New York City. While in New York, the riders made a memorial "New York Ride" to Ground Zero on September 11. The third leg of the ride, on September 21, is the 7th annual "Ride to Remember" from Lakewood to the International Association of Fallen Firefighters Memorial in Colorado Springs, Colo.

During their journey, the riders stopped in Elkhart to visit with Damon representatives and local firefighters. Elkhart Mayor David Miller was also on hand to greet and thank the riders. In addition to Ground Zero, the firefighters also visited the crash sites at the Pentagon in Washington, D.C., and Somerset County, Pa., where United Flight 93 went down.

Damon Corporation was joined by Windish RV Center of Lakewood, Colo., Harley-Davidson Motor Company dealers, various fire departments and many others in sponsoring the ride, which was co-coordinated by Rick and Lisa Franz, members of the Wind and Fire Motorcycle Club. Police patrols and fire department equipment accompanied the ride as it made its way across the country greeted by thousands of citizens cheering and waving American flags.

The special edition Damon Escaper featured a 350-hp Cummins® engine on a Spartan® raised-rail chassis with a 6-speed Allison® transmission. Damon Corporation is one of the largest privately owned RV manufacturers. Damon employs more than 400 people in its manufacturing facilities and offices located in Elkhart, Ind.