BEALE AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. –
Motorcyclists from the 940th Air Refueling Wing are invited to a motorcycle rally starting at the Linda Wal-Mart from 10:30 to 11 a.m. March 11.
Riders will then go to the “Soldier Down ‘06” motorcycle rally to participate in a secret ride and game to benefit American military personnel.
“You're given a map and ride to different locations throughout the area to get poker cards,” explained Lt. Col. Lew Harding, 940 ARW Chief of Safety. “The best hand wins at the end of the ride, which is about 40 miles and a couple of hours long with stops.”
The “Soldier Down” ride begins with an opening ceremony at 1 p.m. at the Eagles Nest Restaurant in
Marysville. It ends at the Silver Dollar Saloon, also in Marysville, with live entertainment from 1 to 5 p.m. The “Soldier Down” ride happens regardless the weather. For the 940th portion of the ride, if the weather looks questionable, please call 530-634-1930 for the latest information.
All wing members, their family and friends are welcome to participate. The event is open to all vehicles, not just motorcycles. The cost is $15 per person or $10 and a used cell phone with a battery.
Colonel Harding reminds riders to wear the proper motorcycle safety equipment anytime they ride. He suggests full protective gear including a Department of Transportation approved helmet, riding leathers, gloves, boots and eye protection. All goggles or riding glasses should also be impact resistant.
“Black is a favorite color for most bikers, which is fine, but I suggest you liven it up with some bright colors so you're more visible,” Colonel Harding said. “I personally have a big Harley Davidson patch on the back of my riding vest, and usually wear bright orange or white long sleeve shirts underneath my vest to stand out.”
Wing leadership declared March “Motorcycle Mentorship Month.” With this in mind, Col. James Kerr, 940 ARW commander, Col. J.D. Lynd, 940 ARW vice commander, and Colonel Harding will all be demonstrating good riding techniques and safety practices during the event.
“This is a great opportunity to ride your bike with friends, while supporting a good cause,” Colonel Harding said.