FORT JACKSON, S.C. -- More than 50 Fort Jackson motorcycle riders braved the triple digit temperatures Friday to show off their bikes, enjoy the camaraderie and get a refresher on safety during the Victory Thunder motorcycle rally. Riders had the opportunity to have their motorcycles inspected before hitting the road for the Thunder Run around post.
Maj. Gen. James Milano, Fort Jackson's commanding general, addressed the Soldiers and civilians before the Thunder Run and shared some of his experiences from his days as a motorcycle rider.
"I enjoyed riding, but I'm sort of beyond that," Milano said. "But I truly respect your interest, your passion, your hobby - call it what you want - of riding a motorcycle."
He also reminded the bike enthusiasts of the dangers associated with riding a motorcycle.
"We've had 25 deaths in the Army just this fiscal year (related to) privately owned motorcycles," he said. "Twenty-five is far too many Soldiers in my mind.
Milano pointed out that the Army has seen a decline in privately owned vehicle and motorcycle accidents since 2004, but urged Soldiers and civilians to make safety their priority when riding a bike.
"The one thing I command of each and every one of you who is an active-duty service member and strongly encourage the rest of you, is to wear the PPE (personal protective equipment) and to wear a helmet, on post and off post," he said. "I will never compromise or come off that."
Milano said that adhering to the safety standards also sets an example for young Soldiers.
"I urge all of you to be examples, to be role models, to be standard-bearers, to be 'contagious' so other people want to be like you in terms of safety," he said.
Sean O'Brian, Fort Jackson safety director, said that in addition to re-emphasizing safety, the motorcycle rally is also aimed at creating fellowship among riders.
"Obviously, safety is always going to be our No. 1 priority," O'Brian said. "But for the rally, it's not just safety, it's also (to) bring the guys together to talk to their fellow riders, look at each other's bikes, have a good time and get a little safety with it as well."
He said that riders sharing experiences can help re-enforce safety among peers.
"It helps (the riders) get the idea that (adhering to safety standards) isn't just something I have to do, it's something we all do - not because it's the rule, but because it's the smart thing to do," O'Brian said.
In addition to the Thunder Run, riders had the opportunity to enter their bikes into a bike show, get free lunch and win prizes.
Social Sharing