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SUBJ/MOTORCYCLE SAFETY MESSAGE FROM THE SECRETARY OF THE NAVY// 
 
RMKS/1.  In the Department of the Navy (DON) we have a clear and defined 
mission to maintain, train, and equip combat-ready naval forces capable of 
winning wars, deterring aggression, and maintaining freedom of the seas.  In 
so doing we take all necessary precautions to systematically identify 
hazards, and assess, control, and weigh risk decisions through deliberate 
planning and application of proper risk management.  We must apply this same 
level of purposeful planning and risk management to our off-duty evolutions 
as we do when we prepare for a complex mission. 
 
I particularly want to highlight proper risk management off-duty.  In my 
first three weeks as Secretary of the Navy, I signed six letters of 
condolence due to motorcycle fatalities.  Even one loss of a Sailor or Marine 
to a motorcycle fatality is too many; however, the frequency of these 
fatalities alone underscores the need to aggressively address motorcycle 
safety.  
Mishap investigations have identified many causal factors to motorcycle 
mishaps including, but not limited to, speed, loss of control, failure to 
yield, or driver distraction.  Riders can mitigate all of these through a 
more dedicated and proactive application of safety knowledge and individual 
responsibility while still enjoying the benefits of riding a 
motorcycle.  Additionally, leadership involvement is imperative to promote 
rider awareness of, and adherence to, applicable laws and regulations and to 
stress operating the vehicle within its intended limits. 
 
Within the DON we have a dedicated program that focuses on motor vehicles and 
more specifically motorcycle safety.  This initiative addresses the three 
tiered training program, personal protective equipment requirements, 
motorcycle mentor programs, and a broad spectrum of necessary guidelines.  In 
addition, we have resources to draw on to include the Naval Safety Center 
Lessons Learned, Commandant of the Marine Corps, Safety Division publication 
Combatting the Blue Threat, and civilian motorcycle safety 
publications.  These are all valuable products that promote safe riding 
behavior.  I encourage all Sailor and Marine motorcycle operators to take 
advantage of these training opportunities and available products to enhance 
motorcycle safety. 
 
Finally, I encourage all levels of the chain of command to get involved and 
emphasize the importance of their riders taking every precaution to ride 
safely.  A loss of life is tragic, and not only does it negatively impact 
family and friends but it degrades our readiness and the continuity and 
execution of our naval mission.  Every member of our team is valuable, and we 
need each and every one of us to achieve our goals. 
 
2.  Released by the Honorable Carlos Del Toro, Secretary of the Navy.// 
 
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