Green Knights host National Ride to Work Day

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  • By Sheppard Green Knights help raise motorcycle awareness
  • 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs
SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE,Texas --  The Sheppard Green Knights Military Motorcycle Club (MMC) and base motorcycle riders came together June 20 for National Ride to Work Day in support of raising rider awareness and safety.

Richard Chamberlain, Green Knights MMC president, said the 3rd annual National Ride to Work Day had a good turnout for riders and encourages more to participate in future events.

"The goal for this event is to help raise awareness for riders, not only on base but everywhere," he said. "If we can get drivers to remember to look twice before they change lanes or keep a safe distance from riders then our event was successful."

He said now more than ever is the time to raise awareness for the increasing numbers of motorcycle riders.

"The number of novice motorcycle riders has substantially grown over the past few years," he said. "One reason is increasing gas prices, motorcycles can get around 40 miles per gallon. With all of the new riders it is important they have a mentorship program and that's what the Green Knights MMC provides them."

James Zillweger, 82nd Training Wing Safety chief and Green Knights member, said the club and the safety office work hand in hand.

"The Air Education and Training Command mandated in 2002 that bases will have a mentorship motorcycle program to include three main elements--safety, camaraderie and community mentorship," he said.

Mr. Chamberlain said he encourages all riders to participate in the Green Knights MMC. The club was recognized formally in 2000 as a military motorcycle club.

"Sheppard is the 54th of 94 chapters of the Green Knights MMC," he said. "We encourage all active duty military, retirees and Department of Defense civilians to join."
He said anyone who would like to join may visit the website at http://www.texasgreenknights.org. or visit the national Green Knights MMC website at http://greenknightsmc.com/index.html.