Two wheels, one mission: ride safe Published May 15, 2025 By Zion Dillahunt 88th Air Base Wing Public Affairs WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Oh. -- Over 100 riders gathered at the National Museum of the Air Force for Motorcycle Safety Day. An event designed to bring both military and civilian riders together to enhance safety awareness and provide life-saving knowledge on May 9. The day kicked off first with the annual Pre-season Motorcycle Safety Brief, which provides essential safety tips to riders ahead of the summer riding season. More than 120 motorcycle riders and enthusiasts meet for a motorcycle safety event, hosted by the 88th Air Base Wing Safety Office, at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, May 9, 2025. The event consisted of instructional safety briefings, mentorship opportunities for new riders, and a group ride. (U.S. Air Force photo by Daniel Peterson) Photo Details / Download Hi-Res The group then transitioned into the Defense Safety Oversight Council Mentorship Modules, covering the topics of: “Seeing and Being Seen”, “Introduction to Group Riding”, and “Dynamics of Cornering and Traction management”. Each module introduced riders to their respective topics and included best practices, risk management and hazard mitigation techniques. After the morning session the community partners joined in such as, Motorcycle Ohio, the Motorcycle Safety Foundation, Harley Davidson of Xenia, and Competition Accessories from Springfield, Ohio. Motorcycle Ohio once presented its compelling “Saved By The Helmet” program. This presentation honored individuals who had survived serious motorcycle accidents thanks to wearing proper personal protective equipment. Each recipient shared their story, highlighting how their helmet played a critical role in their survival and recovery. Motorcycle riders participate in a group ride following a motorcycle safety event at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, May 9, 2025. More than 120 motorcycle riders and enthusiasts met for the event, hosted by the 88th Air Base Wing Safety Office, to promote safe riding practices, mentorship for new riders, and training information. (U.S. Air Force photo by Daniel Peterson) Photo Details / Download Hi-Res Col. Marcus D. Starks, commander for the National Space Intelligence Center, shed light on the importance of the day. "This periodic training serves as a wake-up call—a reminder of the risks, like speeding or not wearing safety gear, and the importance of taking personal responsibility. It’s about ensuring you ride safely and return home to your family and fellow service members who are counting on you." In 2024, there were 15 Air Force motorcycle fatalities. Out of those 15 accidents, 11 of those tragedies were caused by speeding, and eight of those riders exceeded the speed limit by 25 mph or more. The conclusion of the day resulted in a group ride to John Bryan State Park, then back to the museum, taking approximately 2 hours to complete the route. An Indian Scout motorcycle sits in a row parked at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, May 9, 2025. More than 120 motorcycle riders and enthusiasts met for the event, hosted by the 88th Air Base Wing Safety Office, to promote safe riding practices, mentorship for new riders, and training information. (U.S. Air Force photo by Daniel Peterson) Photo Details / Download Hi-Res “I came today to experience the type of training provided by the military to both service members and civilians here on base,” said 2nd Lt. Eric Lazo, a systems engineering student at the Air Force Institute of Technology. “I also wanted to see what the motorcycle community is like here at Wright-Patt. I’ve never been around such a large group of riders—military and civilian—all gathered in one place. It’s really impressive to see how connected the community is.” Tech. Sgt. Christopher Orwin, Motorcycle Safety Representative for the National Air and Space Intelligence Center, shared his perspective on the event's success. “Even if we only had one person show up today, that means one more rider has received valuable information they might not have otherwise had.” Overall, the event served as a powerful reminder for all riders to take personal responsibility on the road, ensuring not only their own safety but also the well-being of their families and fellow service members.