Safety office conducts annual meeting for motorcycle safety Published March 17, 2015 By Senior Airman Scott Jackson 17th Training Wing Public Affairs GOODFELLOW AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Motorcycle safety representatives gathered at the Norma Brown building near the flagpole to discuss ways to raise safety awareness among motorcycle riders and non-motorcycle riders March 13. During the meeting, Col. Terry J. "TJ" Hamrick Jr., 17th Training Wing Vice Commander, spoke on the importance of non-motorcyclists being aware of riders while driving. "It's really hard to see motorcyclists because they're smaller and most people aren't thinking about them," said Hamrick. "So, if you're not thinking about them, it's easier to miss them. It doesn't take much to take out a motorcyclist by a car. Be on the lookout." Motorcycle safety representatives also talked about the necessity of having riders in all units registered and for them to remain wary of getting back onto their bikes after the winter. "If you are a rider, chances are you haven't rode your motorcycle that much over the winter time and now that the weather is getting nicer, your will want to ride more often," said Neil R. Townley, 17th Training Wing Safety Office. "There are some important things to remember, even if you are a seasoned rider. Wind is a huge factor in riding here in West Texas. Don't underestimate how quickly you can get blown off the road with the wind gusts we experience." Per AFI 91-207, it is the responsibility of all motorcycle riders to abide by safety standards set in place.
