Dozens of injured Marines took part in a cycling event and they did so with heavy hearts for a former marine and Reedley police officer Javier Bejar killed in the line of duty.
More than 900 cyclists took part in Saturday's 21st annual Kings River Blossom Bike Ride.
And almost everyone had officer Bejar on their minds as they pedaled through the orange coves.
If a 45-mile bike ride around Reedley sounds challenging try doing it with one leg.
Better yet try telling Derek McGinnis he can't. "I'm gonna do it. Give me a reason to," he said.
5 years ago this former hospital corpsman was with his Marine unit supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom when a suicide bomber drove into his car. "Lost my leg, brain injuries, eye injuries, injuries throughout my body," said McGinnis.
McGinnis is part of a national group of wounded Marines called Team Semper Fi.
They compete in athletic events everywhere despite their physical challenges.
When this group heard that Reedley police officer Javier Bejar, a former Marine, was killed in the line of duty it hit home for every single one of them participating in the Kings River Blossom Bike Ride.
"It just gives me the motivation to get up, put my leg on, carry on, finish up school and continue to give back," said McGinnis.
Sgt. Matthew Sondermann from Philadelphia said: "My heart goes out to the police officers family and it's hard. I know it."
Semper Fi Team Founder Karen Guenther said: "The marine corps is a brotherhood. And they stick together. So It will touch them deeply and they'll be happy to be a part of this ride to honor his memory."
Event organizers said proceeds from this event will benefit Bejar's family as well as Deputy Joel Wahlenmaier, the other officer killed.
There is another effort underway in Reedley to raise money for Bejar's family an art exhibit.
This pastel work featuring blossoms showcases the area's natural beauty during this time of year.
The Kings River Art council decided to raffle off this piece to those who donated to the Bejar memorial fund.
Council president Melanie Fountain said: "He was a part of the Reedley family and the entire town is hurting. And they need to find a way to help in order to heal."
