The video, shown at the Bob Hope Theater, highlighted the importance of motorcycle safety and featured experts in motorcycle riding teaching Marines that riding can be fun and safe at the same time. Service members were also treated to motorcycle exhibitions and vendors throughout the day.

“We gathered a group of experts, instructors and professional riders ranging from sport bike riders to motocross to talk about motorcycle safety,” said Dirk Collins, the producer and director of the movie. “The movie helped educate and inform Marines on a peer-to-peer level on how fun riding is, but at the same time how to ride a motorcycle properly.”

Following the showings of the movie, service members were quickly awestruck by the tricks and jumps professional riders had in store for them. Chris McNeil, a professional motocross rider, gave a street freestyle exhibition, performing wheelies on both front and rear tires. Tommy Clowers and Destin Cantrell, also professional motocross riders, performed high-flying freestyle motocross stunts for the Marines. The Marine watched first-hand as the riders showed them what they could do.

“With this event, we not only showed them what to do once they acquired the skills, but showed them the steps to get to that point,” said McNeil. “An event like this sends the right message but it sends the message in the right way. Instead of being preached to we are saying come with us.”

After the demonstrations, service members got the opportunity to interact with the riders, by signing autographs and talking to them about riding. The proactive event gave Marines who attended the opportunity to increase their motorcycle safety habits while on the road.

“As Marines we need to use operational risk management and learn from the example the riders set for us because they are the ones that do it on a daily basis,” said Cpl. George Anthony Dulal-Whiteway, a cryogenic equipment operator with Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 11. “The event opened Marines’ eyes, and it will hopefully minimize accidents.”

Not only were the Marines appreciative of the rider’s giving them their knowledge, the riders were also appreciative of the Marines.

“We are very thankful for not only getting the opportunity to interact with you guys, but help you progress as riders,” said McNeil. “It feels good for us to give back to the Marines because they protect us.”

The movie premier will be shown again for service members aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, June 25, in an effort to reduce motorcycle mishaps Corps wide.

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