Dozens are cycling all the way to Washington DC to remember fallen emergency response workers.

The National EMS Memorial Bike Ride is not a race, but a journey to celebrate those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

Emergency responders and fire trucks filled the Paintsville Fire Station 1 parking lot Saturday morning.

All were there to honor the memory of EMS workers who have died in the line-of-duty, including one of their own, Christa Burchett.

"It was tough for everyone in the area because it was someone we knew personally," said Bobby Moore.

Moore worked alongside Burchett for many years, and says her legacy for helping others lives on.

"She was in it to actually help people. It wasn't just a paycheck, it wasn't just a job, it was actually a career," said Moore.

Brian Kimberlin says the ride to DC starts in Paintsville to honor her memory.

"She was a friend of mine, a co-worker of my wife's. So we come back every year to honor her memory," said Kimberlin.

The lone rider leaving from Paintsville, Michael Kennard, is riding for Burchett, friends he has lost and any EMS worker killed on the job.

"I think it's important to remember anybody that gives the ultimate sacrifice," said Moore.

Fire trucks from across Johnson County followed Kennard out of the parking lot and onto Highway 23 en route to Washington DC.

Kennard says he will be in Washington DC by Friday, in time for next Saturday's EMS recognition and memorial service.