Motorcycle Rodeo Promotes Safety On Board Naval Station Norfolk

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Nikki Smith, Navy Public Affairs Support Element, Norfolk

June 19, 2010 - NORFOLK (NNS) -- Naval Station Norfolk highlighted motorcycle safety June 18 during the 4th Annual Motorcycle Rodeo and Classic Car Show on board Naval Station Norfolk.

Over 300 Sailors and veterans cycled to the event on their cruiser and sport bikes to show their support for the promotion of motorcycle safety Navy-wide.

Rear Adm. Arthur J. Johnson, commander of Naval Safety Center came out to the Rodeo to show his support and kick off the event. Johnson wanted to stress the importance of safety, and how much of a difference safety training can make on all fronts.

"All of our motorcycle safety events are pretty important to us. What the riders are doing today is pretty important for safety purposes and their training," said Johnson.

Johnson also emphasized the importance of having Sailors "close the gap" which is ensuring all Sailors who are motorcycle safety trained get other riders who haven't attended proper safety courses into the training.

The Rodeo featured the first-ever Thunder on the Naval Station Ride where riders were led by a police cruiser and got to show off their bikes during a ride through Naval Station Norfolk. Virginia State Police Motorcycle Demonstration Team came out to show the attendees important safety tricks and tips on their bikes. There were also awards presented for People's Choice for Bike Show and an all-hands bike challenge.

"It's all about shipmates and keeping our Sailors safe. Without safety training this isn't possible," said Religious Program Specialist Petty 1st Class (FMF) Edmond Garrett of USS New York (LPD 21).