Mentor club rolls out 2015 with motorcycle ride

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Travis Beihl
  • 81st Training Wing Public Affairs

The Keesler Motorcycle Mentor Club held a “Ride with the Chief” event on base and in the local area.

The club holds monthly rides for members and larger, quarterly rides that are open to the whole base in an effort to help teach motorcycle safety, learn the roads in south Mississippi and gain mentorship from fellow members.

“We go through inspections, hold safety briefings and teach the hand gestures needed for a safe group motorcycle ride,” said Tech. Sgt. Jose Gonzalez, 334th Training Squadron airfield management course instructor and head motorcycle mentor.

The program is designed for young riders who have less than 12 months of experience, but is open to anyone who enjoys riding.

Gonzalez and Tech. Sgt. Thomas Bebin, Mathies NCO Academy instructor, work together to plot routes that help highlight motorcycle safety while also making sure the rides are fun.

“We started with a safety brief and route plans, and then ended the ride with lessons learned,” said Chief Master Sgt. Harry Hutchinson, 81st Training Wing command chief. “Mentorship is a 360-degree process. Riding with this group was a great way to spend time, bond, and build on community partnerships.

“I had a great time on the ride," said Hutchinson. "Having the opportunity to interact with and be a part of such a great group of Airmen, retirees and civilians is the reason I love my job.”

For more information about the Motorcycle Mentor Club, contact your Unit Motorcycle Representative or email Tech. Sgt. Jose Gonzalez or Tech. Sgt. Thomas Bebin.