A Community United by the Sea: The Seafarers Memorial Bike Ride 🌊

Non-Profit
Written By Main Street DDA

This past weekend, our community gathered in a moving tribute at the Seafarers Memorial Bike Ride, held July 12 in St. Marys and Kingsland, Georgia. What began as a heartfelt remembrance of three local fishermen—Dalton Conway, Caleb Wilkinson, and Tyler Barlow—who tragically lost their lives at sea in 2023 quickly became something much larger (camdenchamber.com).

🌟 The Story Behind the Ride

The idea was born from grief and the memory of three beloved members of our maritime community. As their loved ones and neighbors coped with loss, local organizer Kimberly Cardounel spearheaded efforts to honor their legacy—and those of other mariners lost at sea—through the creation of a permanent memorial in St. Marys

🏁 From Memorial Site to VFW

On Saturday at 10 AM, more than 65 motorcycles and a fleet of cars assembled at the future memorial site in St. Marys. With sirens off and engines throbbing, everyone rode together to the VFW in Kingsland—a poignant procession punctuated by the sound of devotion and respect (Facebook).

💙 Why It Mattered

  • Honoring Lives & Legacy: The ride offered a powerful platform to remember Dalton, Caleb, Tyler—and countless others whose stories are tied to the sea.

  • Uniting the Community: The turnout highlighted the unwavering solidarity of St. Marys, Kingsland, nearby small businesses, and everyday residents, many of whom rallied behind the families during the search and recovery efforts (camdenchamber.com).

  • Building a Memorial: Proceeds from the ride support construction of a permanent Seafarers Memorial—a physical testament to the bravery and sacrifice of local fishermen and mariners (camdenchamber.com).

đŸŽ™ïž Hear the Full Story on Episode 58

For a deeper look into the ride’s origins, the emotional journey, and how our community came together, tune into Episode 58 of the Get ’N’ Your Business Podcast. Host Alison Shores interviews Kimberly Cardounel, exploring everything from the tragic 2023 maritime losses to the logistics and heart behind staging the ride (camdenchamber.com).

đŸŽ„ Photos That Say It All

The gallery from the ride captures more than faces—it shows unity, resilience, and the kind of community compassion that defines our coastal towns. Bikes lined up at dawn, riders in reflective silence, families gathered at the VFW—all frames of a story much bigger than any single individual.

🙏 What You Can Do

If this story moved you, here are two meaningful ways to help:

  1. Listen & Share: Spread the word with Episode 58—it’s a story of remembrance, hope, and community action.

  2. Support the Memorial Fund: Contributions are being accepted via Camden Connection—every dollar brings us closer to building a lasting tribute.

From Loss to Legacy

The Seafarers Memorial Ride reminds us that amid tragedy, community spirit sails strongest. It’s not just a ride—it’s a journey of remembrance, solidarity, and collective purpose. Whether you pedaled on two wheels, offered a helping hand, or simply cheered on from the sidelines, you were part of something extraordinary. Let’s continue to honor those we’ve lost, stand with those who loved them, and carry their memory forward—together.

For more podcast links, ride photos, or to donate, visit the Camden County Chamber website or search for Get ’N’ Your Business Episode 58.

Main Street DDA
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