JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. –
As the summer months kick-off, motorcycle riders saddle their bikes as a new riding season begins. Among these riders are members of the Green Knights, an international military motorcycling club that promotes motorcycle education and safety.
Air Force TV and the Green Knights National Capital Region, Chapter 20, visited Joint Base Andrews on June 3 to film a public service announcement with the Air Force Vice Chief of Staff, General Phillip M. Breedlove and Terry A. Yonkers, Assistant Secretary of the Air Force Installations, Environment and Logistics.
"Each rider is ultimately accountable for his or her individual safety decisions and we're counting on you to maintain your focus on safety," said both Gen. Breedlove and Mr. Yonkers. "Both of us are avid, life-long motorcycle riders and can speak from experience. Each rider must exercise special caution, know their limitations and make the right decisions when it comes to speed, reckless riding and alcohol use."
Officers of Green Knights rode through the streets of Joint Base Andrews alongside General Breedlove and Mr. Yonkers. They also showcased the use and proper wear of proper protective equipment to include: reflective vests, helmets and gloves.
"2011 is the year of motorcycle safety. General Breedlove and Mr. Yonkers want to stress the importance of mentorship and safety," said Master Sgt. Ruben Mojica, Naval Facilities Engineering Command Public Works Department, Production Division, Base Services Vehicle and Equipment section chief on Joint Base Anacostia Bolling, Md., and Green Knights, National Capital Region, Chapter 20 president. "Mentorship is vital to foster positive riding attitudes, behaviors and to build necessary riding experiences for not only novice riders, but for experienced riders, that might not have been aware of their weaknesses with certain riding techniques."
The Green Knights, National Capital Region, Chapter 20 is open to all Military and Department of Defense riders within the NCR.
"We do not recruit, we accept. Our members range from active duty, retirees, dependants, and DoD civilians. Our purpose is the promotion and education of motorcycle safety and mentorship to the community on and off base, as well as an opportunity to share the hobby or obsession with one another," said Master Sgt. Mojica. "What we really love is to just get out there and ride. We welcome any rider who wants to participate in rides or events with us as long as they ride safely and have fun."
For more information about the Green Knights and to get involved with a local chapter, visit them online at http://www.greenknightsmc.com/index.html.
The public service announcement is slated to air on the Air Force News network within the upcoming week.