Motorcycle decals show training accomplished

  • Published
  • By 1Lt. Lauren Wright
  • 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. --  Unit safety representatives here will begin distributing decals to active-duty members and Department of Defense civilians who are motorcycle riders as part of an Air Combat Command requirement.

"This decal reiterates the importance of motorcycle safety and promotes the necessity of proper motorcycle training," said Lt. Col. Michael Jason, 28th Bomb Wing Safety chief.

The decal, Air Combat Command Form 15, indicates the rider has received motorcycle safety training. The stickers are valid indefinitely and should be placed on the front left side of the motorcycle; safety representatives here expects all qualified riders will have their decals by May 15.

"Motorcycle operators, other than active-duty military or DoD civilians, may receive the decal if the training is completed; however, it is not mandatory that they receive the training," said Staff Sgt. Travis Padgett, 28th BW ground safety apprentice.

The Basic Rider Course and Experienced Rider Course are available several times from May to September 2008. All classes will be held from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the PRIDE Hangar parking lot.

Before attending an ERC class, members must have three months of consecutive riding experience, a valid motorcycle license, a motorcycle with insurance and the necessary Personal Protective Equipment. If the rider does not own the motorcycle they will be using during training, they will need a signed statement from the owner, a copy of the owner's proof of insurance and their own proof of insurance.

As long as the classes are not filled up by active duty and DoD civilians, dependents may sign up for one of the training courses on base.

After receiving training, members should conduct an informational training session with their commander and notify their USR so they can be added to the roster of unit riders.

In addition to receiving training and safety information from Ellsworth's designated safety representatives, members of the Ellsworth community can also join the Dakota Thunder Motorcycle Club.

"The club offers the opportunity for group riding in a safe environment," said Senior Master Sgt. James Russell, 28th BW Plans and Programs superintendent and president of the Dakota Thunder Motorcycle Club.

Sergeant Russell said riders should wear proper PPE, such as long sleeves, helmets, gloves, contrasting clothing and reflective gear, regardless of where they are riding.

"Dress for the crash, not the ride; wearing PPE while riding helps reiterate a culture of responsible choices, and a safe riding experience," he said.

Editor's Note: A list of PPE requirements can be found in Air Force Instruction 91-207, The US Air Force Traffic Safety Program, paragraph 3.4.2.4. Ellsworth servicemembers who need a list of unit safety representatives, or who want to reserve a seat in a motorcycle course, can contact the 28th Bomb Wing Ground Safety Office at 385-7233 or e-mail 28bw.seg@ellsworth.af.mil.