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FORT McPHERSON,
GA., (May 4, 2006)
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“He loved it, he really did, he loved
the Army… and to lose a soldier like that…, it makes a difference.”
SGT
Alvin Clark is not talking about someone who died during support of
Operation Iraqi Freedom; he is talking about a Soldier, a comrade, a
friend, lost during the operation of a motorcycle.
Motorcycle accidents claimed the lives of 11 Soldiers during this past
month, April, alone.
According to statistical data on the Combat Readiness Center’s website,
there have been 53 motorcycle accidents resulting in 24 Class A
accidents since October 1 of last year.
Class A accidents are those resulting in a fatality or permanent
disability.
These are not accidents by the Army’s youngest members; over 70 percent
of Class A motorcycle accidents this fiscal year have involved military
personnel over the age of 25.
The
Army’s Combat Readiness Center and installation Safety Offices are
working to raise motorcycle safety awareness for our Soldiers.
Master Sgt.
Carolyn Williams, motorcycle safety NCO, demonstrates
personal protection equipment for riding her 1997 Yamaha 750
YZF. |
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“Safety is a life long commitment. It’s not just the Army Safety
office’s responsibility to heighten safety awareness but it’s everyone’s
responsibility,” says MSG Carolyn Williams. Williams is the motorcycle
safety NCO at the FORSCOM Safety Office, and an experienced motorcycle
rider.
MSG
Williams believes that everyone can make a difference in saving lives.
“Before an accident even happens someone knew, someone knew of the risky
behavior,” says Williams. “We all have a job to do in protecting the
men and women who protect our liberties. Awareness is a priority for
all drivers on the road.”
Right now if a Soldier wants to operate a motorcycle on an Army
installation he or she is required to complete the approved Beginners
Riders Course and keep the card in possession at all times. They must
also have a valid state drivers license with an unrestricted motorcycle
endorsement; register the motorcycle with the installation (decals
placed on the windshield), and wear proper protective equipment and
reflective clothing, including DOT approved helmets.
The
Combat Readiness Center, at Fort Rucker, AL, is currently going through
the testing phases of the Motorcycle Mentorship Program. The program
will positively impact communities in two ways. It will enhance safety
by pairing inexperienced riders with experienced riders and will augment
community unity by endorsing the creation of motorcycle clubs.
For
more information, contact your local base safety office or visit
www.crc.army.mil. |
