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FORT BRAGG, N.C. - Engines running, exhaust pipes burping out sounds of fury and with the flick of the wrist against the throttle, the 40 riders were off to promote safety and camaraderie during a motorcycle mentorship Ride sponsored by 82nd Sustainment Brigade, at Fort Bragg, N.C.
U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Gus Vignart, began the day-long event with an in-depth brief about motorcycle safety and maintenance. “Unit leaders need to be aware of what your soldiers are riding," Vignart said. "If you see something that is not within Defense Department policy or compliance, then your Soldier might need some re-training."
Motorcycle accidents occur regardless of rank, gender or race. Reinforcing this fact as well as safety is an important facet of the event. Riders began with a pre-maintenance check and inspection of motorcycles using the North Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles motorcycle safety check list.
Vignart also stressed the safety risks rider take by modifying their bikes.
"Motorcycle modifications may indicate a trooper is engaging high-risk behavior," said Armando Alfaro, Tactical Safety Manager for 82nd Sustainment Brigade "What to look for are drag bars, missing rear view mirrors, license plate relocation, and a stretched swing arm just to name a few."
The mentorship ride aims to raise awareness for riders who participate in such extracurricular activities and give them the techniques and skills to be safer riders.
Riding as a group helps teach soldiers the proper safety practices needed to operate their motor vehicle.
"Always assess everyone's riding skills," Vignart said. "Put weaker riders in the front and more experienced riders throughout the rest pack. Don't ever risk your life or another's life by pushing yourself because it's not worth it. I can't stress it enough. Do not ride outside your skill level."
Ed Deleon, a retired Army Sergeant Major and 525th Battlefield Surveillance Brigade Safety Manager, regularly attends such events. "I always like to show my support by coming out to the different motorcycle safety events like this one."
Taking time out of his day to teach riders a few things about safe riding is very important to Vignart, he said.
| Date Taken: | 09.07.2012 |
| Date Posted: | 10.25.2012 10:09 |
| Story ID: | 96747 |
| Location: | FAYETTEVILLE, NORTH CAROLINA, US |
| Web Views: | 96 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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