MARINE CORPS RECRUIT DEPOT SAN DIEGO -- Because of the increased number of accidents throughout the Marine Corps since Oct. 1, 2007, the commandant of the Marine Corps, Gen. James T. Conway, has set stricter regulations when it comes to riding and owning motorcycles.
Last year, 19 Marines were killed in motorcycle-related accidents, more than anytime in the history of the Marine Corps. In contrast, 14 Marines were killed in combat in Iraq and Afghanistan since Oct. 1, 2007.
“These numbers are staggering and completely unacceptable,” said Gen. Conway. “These trends fall short of the professionalism I expect from all Marines.”
The new (014/08) ALMAR requires that all Marines who own motorcycles have their vehicles properly registered and attend a basic riders course.
Marine Corps Order 5100.19E, Marine Corps Traffic Safety Program, already requires completing a motorcycle safety course prior to driving a motorcycle on base. The new ALMAR works in conjunction with this order as an additional safety measure to further include Marines who do not ride on base, according to safety division officials.
Furthermore, riders must wear appropriate safety gear, including eye protection, gloves, reflective vests, long-sleeve shirts, and pants and footwear that cover the ankles.
“In the past it was easier for Marines to purchase motorcycles without having the foundation to ride safely,” said Staff Sgt. Tara Walsh, accident investigation chief for the depot. “This ALMAR will prevent some of the accidents that occur with Marines.”
“Even if we go an extended period without any accidents or a decreased number of accidents, it is important that we continue to implement these regulations,” said Walsh. “I definitely think it will help save lives.”
The new regulations also state that before prospective riders purchase a motorcycle, they must consult with their chains of command to ensure they are aware of the resulting responsibilities.
Marines who have motorcycles must report ownership within 48 hours of purchase to their command. The command will then verify that the owners have the appropriate motorcycle endorsement on their driver’s licenses and have taken, or are scheduled to take, the required safety classes.
The commandant also referenced the mandatory use of seat belts from White Letter 01-07, dated April 11, 2007, as mandatory for all Marines—whether operating or riding in a motor vehicle, on or off duty, or whether on or off any Department of Defense installation. He said that seat belt use dramatically reduces the chance of injury during vehicle mishaps, and failure to wear a seatbelt is punishable under the Uniform Code of Military Justice.
Failure to comply with the ALMAR can result in non-judicial punishment.
In the ALMAR Gen. Conway stated that safety programs do not replace leadership, but instead act as additional tools to commanders. The actions listed provide motorcycle riders with the equipment and training they need to improve their chances of survival in a motorcycle mishap.
He charged leaders with ensuring strict adherence to the orders, and to set the foundation of safe practices to preserve the Marines and sailors and the equipment they operate.