Photo Information

A motorcycle patrol officer with the California Highway Patrol demonstrates advanced riding techniques after a motorcycle safety awareness press conference aboard Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, May 14. The demonstration is a part of a course all Marines who ride a motorcycle must attend.

Photo by Cpl. Michael Thorn

Marines, law enforcement team together to ramp up motorcycle safety

15 May 2015 | Sgt. Raquel Barraza Marine Corps Air Station Miramar

Leaders with Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, San Diego Police Department and California Highway Patrol held a motorcycle safety awareness press conference and training event aboard MCAS Miramar, California, May 14.

Marine Corps Installations West works hand in hand with these agencies to ensure Marines and Sailors have the tools to be safe on the road.

They discussed safety tips for both motorcyclists and automobile drivers since California is home to more than 1.3 million licensed motorcyclists.

“[To drive] safely is of paramount importance,” said Robert Dobarzynski, MCI-West director of safety and standardization. “Make sure to take a second or third look before you make a lane change.”

California Highway Patrol held a demonstration of the safety course for all Marines who ride motorcycles after the conference.

“The Marines get on their motorcycles that they own and they learn to practice getting those skills that they need to drive on the highways here,” said Col. John Farnam, MCAS Miramar commanding officer.

Installations commanders have a vested interest in Marines’ and Sailors’ safety and hope to decrease the unnecessary motorcycle accidents involving service members.

“This is where partnerships like what we have here really make a difference,” said Farnam.
Commands in MCI-West provide tools such as the mandatory motorcycle safety class to promote road safety for everyone.

Marine Corps Air Station Miramar