MOTORCYLES ARE HERE TO STAY Published Dec. 2, 2009 By Retired Tech. Sgt. Dennis E. Patterson Sheppard Air Force Base, Texas Via e-mail -- In response to Terry Green of Cleveland who wrote the "Torch Talk" letter titled "Outlaw Motorcycles?" in your July/August 2009 issue: If ever motorcycles were outlawed for military members, let's look at other items that could be included in the lot. Marriage -- can't do that because there's too much stress placed on the spouse. Morale, welfare and recreation -- can't have that because it offers many activities that can lead to potential injury. Club memberships -- cancel those because members could obtain a drinking habit there. Shall I go on? The characterization that professional athletes can't ride motorcycles is not exactly accurate. The National Basketball Association will allow players to ride motorcycles. In their contract it states "will not operate a motorcycle without written consent." That means they can ride if they have proper training and consent from the owning club. As for military members riding motorcycles, that also is a requirement. A member must complete the Motorcycle Safety Foundation approved course and obtain appropriate state requirements for the motorcycle endorsement before getting a license. Plus, members can't even get through the base gate on a motorcycle without squadron commanders signing off on their ability to ride. Furthermore, base organizations such as the Green Knights foster mentorship to new, young and seasoned riders alike. The bottom line is the military doesn't turn a blind eye to active-duty riders.