MacDill kicks off 101 Critical Days of Summer with joint check-ride

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Brandon Shapiro
  • 6th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  Since 2004 the Air Force has seen 2,538 motorcycle mishaps, equating to 162 Airmen fatalities. Amongst these occurrences, 2,165 resulted in lost time mishaps, totaling 44,492 production days lost.

It is no secret that motorcycle safety is a hot button issue throughout the Department of Defense and for that reason, members from MacDill Air Force Base's Motorcycle Operations Center coordinated their quarterly check-ride in lieu of the 101 Critical Days of Summer kickoff.

The purpose of the joint check ride was to emphasize motorcycle safety, prepare for the 101 Critical Days of Summer, and to build camaraderie between the base and its tenant units.

Leading the event was avid rider and motorcycle enthusiast Sgt. 1st Class Deontrez Albury, United States Central Command chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and explosives NCO in charge.

"The turnout is outstanding," commented Albury. "There are 43 riders from, CENTCOM, United States Special Operations Command, Special Operations Central Command, the 4th Assault Amphibious Battalion and the 6th Air Mobility Wing."

Although the ride didn't officially take off until 10 a.m., all members were required to meet up at 8 a.m. for a mandatory T-CLOCS inspection (tires, controls, lights, oil, chassis, and stands), a gear check, and a safety briefing.

Waiting for participants to arrive was 1st Sgt Thomas Abbott, CENTCOM first sergeant, with clipboard and T-CLOCS checklists at the ready.

"These types of checks are what save lives," commented Abbott. "We are trying to educate known riders and eliminate the 'ghost riders,' the ones who no one knows ride until something tragic happens."

After a "thumbs up, good to go" was given, each rider donned their protective gear and listened to one last risk assessment given by USCENTCOM safety, detailing group riding, weather conditions, and possible emergency scenarios.

Then, much like a pack of wolves, each of the 43 riders took off in unison to travel the shores of Tampa Bay, soak in the 80 degree weather, and experience the stunning scenery.

"The joint check-ride was fun and informative," commented Staff Sgt. John McEwen, 6th Logistics Readiness Squadron vehicle operations dispatcher. "It was a great chance for the veteran riders to share their knowledge all while strengthening the 'motorcycle bond' between mission partners here on MacDill."

Information on safe riding can be ascertained from your base safety office, squadron motorcycle safety rep, or at http://www.defense.gov/home/features/2012/0412_militaryrider/