MARINE CORPS BASE QUANTICO, Va. -- As dawn rose on Sept. 19, 2013, rays of sunlight glinted off 10 motorcycles parked in front of the chow hall aboard Marine Corps Base Quantico.
But instead of eating breakfast, the riders were preparing for a 30-mile ride to Manassas, as part of a monthly motorcycle ride hosed by Headquarters and Service Battalion.
“All uniformed personnel [who ride motorcycles] are required to attend monthly meetings and rides,” said Capt. Ross Garnett, H&S Bn. supply and safety officer. “We want to make the requirement fun.”
Using experience as a model, Garnett and Gunnery Sgt. William Foster, H&S Bn., S-4 chief, chose a historical site for September’s ride.
“Gunny and I have always been involved in our unit’s riding programs,” said Garnett. “We are trying to bring what we are familiar with. Today’s ride is going to take us to Manassas National Battlefield and allows us to go on a guided tour of the battlefield with the North Dakota National Guard.”
According to ride coordinators, fulfilling a requirement is not the only thing participants gain from attending the monthly rides.
They offer an outlet for training, camaraderie and professional military education for the Marines, sailors and civilians of this base, said Garnett.
Other elements of the ride that some may find attractive are the inexpensive cost and safety checks.
“We do a safety inspection, including checking tire tread and the tightness of the chain, on every bike,” said Foster. “We are going to put some miles on the bikes and see a battlefield at no expense, besides their gas and chow.”
Both new riders on sports bikes and veterans riding cruisers, had their own reasons for attending the event.
“I’ve been riding for about three months,” said Sgt. Samuel Rogers, H&S Bn. armory chief. “I hope to meet some new people and go for a good ride.”
H&S Bn. rides occur during the work week and any rider who is interested is welcome.
“Anyone who falls under the drive safe policy is required to do these rides and meetings is welcome, said Garnett. “We are looking at responsible riding, individual riding skills and group riding skills.”
For information, read the battalion newsletter or ask for Garnett or Foster at the H&S, S-4 section.
Correspondent: samuel.l.ellis@usmc.mil