Event - MCAS Iwakuni

  In January 2010, over 12,000 Marines attended Semper Ride events at several Marine Corps Bases in Japan. The Semper Ride tour started on mainland Japan at Marine Corp Air Station Iwakuni, then carried on to the island of Okinawa where it premiered at Marine Corp Air Station Futenma, then Marine Corp Camps Foster, Kinser, Courtney, Hansen and Schwab.

In conjunction with the film premiere, Marines interacted with 4-time X-Games gold medalist Ronnie Renner, world stunt motorcycle champion Chris “Teach” McNeil and freestyle motocross pioneer Jeff Tilton. The pro’s signed autographs and educated Marines on the latest options in Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). One of the most popular elements of the traveling show was the suit Teach used to crash in the movie at over 40mph. Camp Butler’s Director of Safety, Lawrence “Jake” Jacobs stated; "The showing of the Semper Ride movie was an overall success for Marine Corps Bases Japan during our annual Back in the Saddle (BITS) training evolution that produced 17 shows over a two-week period. It was well received from all riders and potential future riders from active duty Marines, sailors, and civilian employees. The professionalism of the Semper Ride team and the entire video production proved to have a lasting effect on all that attended the training."

Thanks to the efforts like this, Headquarters Marine Corps Safety Division has helped reduce motorcycle deaths by 44% in 2009 from the unacceptable fatality rate of 25 Marines in 2008. But even one Marine fatality is too many, so Semper Ride and the premiere events are part of a fresh new approach to educate Marines in what is involved with owning and operating a motorcycle. “It has been an honor to be a part of this project and to be a part of a team that is helping to mitigate a problem that is not only a huge concern for the Marine Corps but all branches of the military.” Semper Ride Executive Producer Jim Conway said.

The film uses professional athletes to pass on valuable information in a relaxed peer-to-peer style. The Headquarters Marine Corps Safety Office’s strong support for the events has been a key element in impacting each Marine with the intended safety oriented message. As a result, the 2009/10 events have proven very successful with large attendances and great reviews from the Marines. "Semper Ride has been instrumental in reaching our young Marines on their level and successfully delivering a safe and responsible riding message,” said Col. Fortunato, Director of Safety, Headquarters Marine Corps Safety Division.

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