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Grissom reminds motorcyclists to ride safe

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  • By 434th ARW Public Affairs staff
  • 434th ARW Public Affairs
GRISSOM AIR RESERVE BASE, Ind. --  With riding weather upon us, Airmen and civilians are encouraged to take a moment to consider motorcycle safety.

“We’ve already given our annual briefing to all registered motorcycle riders at Grissom,” said Jerry Skiles, 434th Air Refueling Wing weapons safety manager and motorcycle program coordinator. “That said, we highly encourage anyone who did not get the briefing to contact the safety office.”

To increase safety drivers should avoid texting, talking on cell phones, changing radio stations and eating. In addition, motorcycle riders should take extra precautions because they are more vulnerable than those in passenger vehicles.

“Motorcycle operators are 26 times more likely to die in a crash than someone in a passenger vehicle, so they need to ride more defensively and be more aware of their surroundings,” explained Skiles. “Staying out of blind spots, following traffic laws and wearing recommended personal protective equipment is one of the most effective ways of being safe while riding.”

The Air Force requires military personnel who operate or intend to operate a motorcycle on a roadway to successfully complete motorcycle safety training. The training consist of an initial course that meets the Motorcycle Safety Foundation basic rider course prior to operating a motorcycle.

In addition to the BRC, additional training is required no later than one year after initial training.

“Grissom has joined with other organizations to provide training to our personnel with no costs out of pocket,” explained Skiles. “We want to make riding as safe as possible so everyone can enjoy the road.”

For more information on how to schedule motorcycle training, contact the 434th ARW Safety Office at 765-688-4795.

The 434th ARW is the largest KC-135R Stratotanker unit in the Air Force Reserve Command. Men and women from the Hoosier Wing routinely deploy around the world in support of the Air Force mission.

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Public Affairs Staff

Material contained on the Official Grissom Air Reserve Base Internet Web Site is written and produced by members of the 434th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs Office. The award-winning staff includes:

Ben Mota
Chief, public affairs

Maj. Elias Zani
Public affairs officer

Master Sgt. Wendy Day
Staff writer

Tech. Sgt. Alexa Culbert
Staff writer

Senior Airman Elise Faurote
Staff writer

Senior Airman Benjamin Cowles
Staff writer