Veterans can obtain
information on how to use their benefits to get a
VA Loan
You
Can Help
Support
Please Visit our Sponsors
Saft Batteries - AtBatt offers Saft lithium primary battery lines of Lithium-thionyl chloride Li-SOCl2, Lithium-sulfur dioxide Li-SO2 and Lithium-manganese dioxide Li-MnO2 batteries are used to power various radio-communications, emergency and security systems, tollgates,
Division West Soldiers ride in Phantom Thunder
By Capt. Marvin J. Baker, 120th Infantry Brigade, Division West Public Affairs
Nov 27, 2011 - 2:52:48 PM
Staff Sgt. Francisco Perez of First Army Division West performs some last-minute maintenance checks on his 2009 Harley Davidson prior to the fifth Phantom Thunder Motorcycle Safety Ride at Fort Hood, Texas, Nov. 9. (Photo by Capt. Marvin J. Baker, 120th Infantry Brigade, Division West, Public Affairs)
FORT HOOD, Texas — The skills and abilities required to operate a motorcycle are different than those for an automobile, and Soldiers in Division West reinforced those skills during the Phantom Thunder Ride Nov. 9.
Thirty Soldiers from Division West and its subordinate brigades took the 60-mile ride to enforce safety and make sure each Soldier follows recently updated riding standards aimed at saving lives and decreasing injuries sustained from accidents.
“We brought everybody who has a motorcycle out here so we are all on the same sheet of music. The new policy mandates we wear a motorcycle safety vest at all times instead of a bright shirt or PT belt,” said Staff Sgt. Francisco Perez, Division West senior motorcycle mentor and instructor. “Also since October this year, everyone must take the Experienced Rider Course every three years. Previously, it was required only once in a lifetime.”
Perez said while the Army is adding to the protective equipment requirements, it is also adding motorcycle courses aimed at training all skill-level riders and increasing their bike-riding proficiency. All the changes help make sure riders are better protected and better trained, he said.
“Anything can happen in a split second on a bike. Getting into a routine of wearing the full protective equipment is a no-brainer. You wouldn’t go even a short distance in your car without your seatbelt on, and we want to make lasting good habits for bike riders too,” said Perez.
Lt. Gen. Donald M. Campbell Jr. addressed the riders moments before the ride and reiterated the importance of adhering to the new standards.
“We are going to follow Army regulations and ride responsibly. We have a challenge in the Army with motorcycle accidents, and I understand that not all accidents are created by a motorcyclist. Many are created by those who don’t see you or aren’t following the rules of the road. What’s important however, is that you continue wear the personal protective equipment. I appreciate your participation and I appreciate you staying safe,” Campbell said.
Comments NO Soliciting.
Comments with links to websites or soliciting services will be removed.
Please read our Terms of use for more information.
