The Green Knights ride for Laughlin

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman John D. Partlow
  • 47th Flying Training Wing
LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  The Green Knights, a military affiliated and chartered motorcycle club, have just established themselves as an official Laughlin private organization, allowing them to become more involved with helping the base and their local community.

"Now that we're allowed to operate on base, we're able to support charities for various causes," said Master Sgt. Robert Husted, 47th Security Forces Squadron superintendent of plans and programs and Green Knights Chapter 101 ride director. "We want the base and local community to know that we are here to support them."

Helping the community is exactly why some Laughlin riders wear the Green Knight's patch.

"I joined because I wanted to be a part of a good cause," said Husted, "And the more people we get, the better the chapter is going to be."

Established in 2000 on McGuire Air Force Base, N.J, the club's core values are charity, honor, respect, truth, loyalty, support and commitment.

"The point of the Green Knights is to provide camaraderie, mentorship and an increase in safety and awareness," said Master Sgt. James Jackson, 47th Security Forces Squadron superintendent of resources and logistic and Green Knights Chapter 101 president. "When we go on these big group rides, it gives new bike owners the confidence and practice they need to ride safely, and it reminds those around us that there are riders on the road they need to watch out for."

The Green Knight's Chapter 101 began at Laughlin in 2012, and the camaraderie, mentorship and increase in safety and awareness the Green Knights offer goes out to more than just patched members.

"You don't have to be a member to join in on rides," said Jackson. "Anyone on Laughlin can join us to stay safe, see some cool places around Texas or to just socialize with other base members. The group rides are all about safety."

In fiscal 2012, 18 Air Force members were killed due to a motorcycle mishap.

"Losing just one person is too many," said Jackson. "If we can make just one person aware of motorcyclists on the road, then we will have succeeded as a club."

The club is always looking for new members and encourages families to get involved. For more information, contact Jackson at 298-4315.

"It's awesome to be a part of something you're already passionate about," said Jackson. "I joined the Green Knights simply because I love riding and I love my Air Force family."