22nd CES practices safe riding habits

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Laura L. Valentine
  • 22nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. --  With spring weather upon the Midwest, many Team McConnell Airmen are pulling their motorcycles out of the garage and preparing for rides.

The 22nd Civil Engineer Squadron held their third annual group safety ride to Kansas Motorcycle Museum in Marquette, Kan., April 13, 2012. Eighteen riders participated.

"The purpose of this ride is motorcycle safety," said Master Sgt. Kenneth Webel, 22nd CES, "and to look out for your wingman."

Before leaving base for the hour and a half ride to Marquette, riders were given a safety brief from Webel.

Ride within your means of comfort and skill and don't ride side-by-side with another motorcyclist, he said.

In accordance with Air Force Instruction 91-207, Airmen must successfully complete training prior to riding and properly wear all personal protective equipment.

Riders should also be aware of weather hazards and maintain constant situational awareness.

The squadron's ride, along with other events planned by the 22nd Air Refueling Wing Safety Office, lead up to the beginning of Air Mobility Command's Critical Days of Summer safety campaign May 25.

Before joining the group on his own motorcycle, Lt. Col. Jason Locshinskey, 22nd CES commander, spoke with the group and offered safety precautions such as pairing up with a buddy while riding, not being in a hurry and avoiding unnecessary risks.

"The reason it's important to me that we do this is that we all ride together and enjoy it, and that we practice good habits," Locshinskey said. "That way, it's a habit when we're riding by ourselves - we're doing the right things and not taking risks."

Locshinskey suggested riders with fewer than five years experience pair up with those who have been riding longer. This allows the more experienced to make observations and give feedback for riding improvements.

"I say this to CE guys all the time," said Locshinskey, "I want you to go out and enjoy time off, but I want you to come back to work the next day."

For information about motorcycle safety, contact a unit motorcycle safety representative or the 22nd Air Refueling Wing Safety office, (316) 759-3216.