Eleven Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training Unit (CNATTU) North Island service members participated in a command-wide voluntary motorcycle ride June 10 to promote rider safety and build camaraderie.

The 122-mile ride, encompassing back roads and freeways in San Diego County, was planned by Aviation Support Equipment Technician 1st Class Michael Sanchez who said the Friday afternoon ride provided riders the opportunity to further hone their skills.

"Just like we train to fight and fight like we train, motorcycle riders should train to ride and ride like they have been trained," he said. "We are looking to increase the skills of everyone here to keep them accident free on the busy freeways of San Diego."

Sanchez said the ride began with riders inspecting each other's motorcycles, paperwork and personal protective equipment -- after which he provided a thorough safety brief.

CNATTU North Island Commanding Officer Cmdr. Michelle Debourge said events such as this quarterly motorcycle ride can serve a variety of purposes.

"Getting away from the office or classroom and engaging in activities for fellow service members can have a team-building effect," Debourge said. "We are training our students throughout the year, but we have to remember to train ourselves. All those who ride can benefit from others who also ride, and getting out and enjoying one another's company while doing something enjoyable is a welcome break."

Participants had the opportunity to practice single file, staggered riding and formation riding at various points along the route -- skills Sanchez said are critical in riding safely in the sometimes heavy San Diego traffic. He added that the ride also included planned stops to assess road conditions and riders' comfort levels.

Participants completed the ride at a motorcycle shop in Kearney Mesa, California. Sanchez said participants voiced their appreciation for the organized ride, and discussed different skills practiced during the five-hour event.

CNATTU North Island is a training unit of the Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training located at Naval Air Station Pensacola, Florida. CNATT develops, delivers, and supports aviation technical training at 27 sites located throughout the continental United States and Japan.

CNATT is a technical training agent for the Naval Aviation Enterprise, an organization designed to advance and sustain naval aviation warfighting capabilities at an affordable cost, and is the largest training center under Naval Education and Training Command.

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