South Philadelphia, PA Show Focuses on Police, Fire Families

Officer Kristin Gondek took part in the Hero Thrill Show for the first time. She was also the first woman member of the Philadelphia Highway Patrol Motorcycle Drill Team. For Officer Gondek, it was a year of firsts.

A Show Built for Police and Fire Families

The South Philadelphia Sports Complex in Pennsylvania hosted the 71st Hero Thrill Show. It took place over the weekend. The event featured a cavalcade of police motorcycles and fire engine tours. It also had police K9s, mounted patrol, food, games, and more.

Lauren Goffredo was the event coordinator. She spoke about what set the show apart. "You cannot get all of these groups in one place at one time and see this kind of event. It's the only event of its kind," said Goffredo.

The show came with the 25th anniversary of 9/11. Families of police officers, firefighters, and emergency personnel were in focus more than ever.

Officer Gondek Makes History on the Drill Team

It was Gondek's first time participating. She compared watching the show with being in it. "You view it and you don't understand anything about it, you're just like wow that's super cool, and to be in it, it's way cooler," said Officer Gondek.

Her place on the drill team was a first. She spoke about that. "The first female, that's what they say, I'm making history," said Gondek.

Families Crowd Around to Watch

Families young and old crowded around to watch. Families also enjoyed boardwalk-style food and games. Aria Galberth spoke about the day. "We see all the police officers here and the commissioners all the way over there. It's the best time ever," said Galberth.

Every Cent Goes Toward College

The event had a much deeper meaning and purpose, as it does every year. Every cent the event brought in went toward college tuition. It was for children of Philadelphia police and firefighters who died in the line of duty.

All three of Judy Cassidy's children benefited. Her husband, Chuck Cassidy, was a Philadelphia Police officer. He died while working in 2007.

Judy Cassidy spoke about facing a loss like that. "When something like this happens, your first thought is, how am I going to go on? How am I going to put my kids through school, through college. It's awful," said Cassidy. "But when you have people who are willing to do something like this, it's huge."

Cassidy also spoke about her husband's death. "There are times still emotional, like, I never get over this, you know?" said Cassidy.

The Hero Thrill Show always brings her together with so many other families. These families share similar stories. "When we all get together, we laugh, and we have fun. Always fun getting together with everybody," said Cassidy.

This event was the organization's biggest fundraiser. Since 2006, the organization has helped put at least 50 kids through school.

Gratitude for Families Who Gather

We are grateful for the families who gathered at the Hero Thrill Show. You can read more stories like this one in our stories library. A donation to WeLovePolice.org helps us continue honoring and supporting law enforcement and their families.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What does a police motorcycle drill team do?

A police motorcycle drill team performs planned riding routines in tight formations at public events. Members practice often so their timing stays precise and safe, and the shows give officers a friendly way to connect with the people they serve.

2. Why do police take part in family fundraising shows?

Family fundraising shows let officers meet neighbors while raising money for a worthy cause. The money often supports scholarships or help for officer families, and the shows give the community a friendly way to say thank you to those who serve.

3. How do tuition funds help children of fallen officers?

Tuition funds can cover part or all of a college education for children who lost a parent in the line of duty. That support eases a heavy financial burden for the family and helps the children keep working toward their own goals.

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• Story Source: 71st Hero Thrill Show roars through South Philadelphia