Marines shred the hills on dirt bikes, ATVs

Photo By Pfc. Franklin Mercado | A Marine with the 2nd Marine Logistics Group rides over a jump during the off-road quarterly ride at Busco Beach in Goldsboro, N.C., Nov. 18, 2011. The intent of the training was to facilitate off-road training for Marines and sailors with the 2nd MLG. The training was given by more experienced riders who possessed the knowledge junior riders could benefit from.  

CAMP LEJEUNE, NC, UNITED STATES

11.22.2011

Story by Pfc. Franklin Mercado 

II Marine Expeditionary Force   

CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. -- Steep hills, sharp turns and mounds of dirt served as the backdrop while the 2nd Marine Logistics Group promoted safety and proper riding techniques during the off-road quarterly ride at Busco Beach in Goldsboro, N.C., Nov. 18.

The intent of the exercise was to facilitate off-road training for Marines and sailors with the 2nd MLG. The training was given by more experienced riders who possessed the knowledge junior riders could benefit from.

Getting training riders couldn’t garner from a classroom environment was a main focus of the training.

As the morning faded into the afternoon, riders whipped through turns and climbed the steepest of hills as they practiced safe riding techniques while still having a good time.

“Even though it is training, everyone is having a great time,” said Staff Sgt. Brent Sharp, the 2nd MLG safety officer. “It’s hard to balance having a good time and learning. We have Marines getting on bikes for the first time in their lives, and they are having a great time riding a dirt bike the right way. The fact that they are doing it the proper way the first time is great.”

The exercise was successful in teaching Marines the basics of riding an off-road vehicle using the correct techniques, but organizers were hoping for a larger turnout.

“We would love for more riders to come out and enjoy the training with us,” Sharp said. “We have approximately 150 active off-road riders, so we should have a lot bigger turn out. We don’t want any Marines to get on a bike without the knowledge to keep himself and everyone around him safe.”

Though not yet scheduled, Sharp is dedicated to spreading the word about the next off-road training as soon as possible.
“I’m going to begin spreading the word about the next one a lot sooner so that all our off-roaders can attend and get the essential training we’re providing,” he said. “Not only is it training, but it’s a day off.”

For more information on the next 2nd MLG off-road quarterly ride visit your units training section.

• Date Taken: 11.22.2011
• Date Posted: 11.22.2011 15:34
• Story ID: 80438
• Location: CAMP LEJEUNE, NC, US