Green Knights ride through Turkey

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Anthony J. Hyatt
  • 39th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
INCIRLIK AIR BASE, Turkey --  Inactive for more than two years, one club has recently re-established itself at Incirlik. The Green Knights Military Motorcycle Club Chapter 44 of Incirlik, Turkey, is a club that was formed to organize base motorcyclists for activities and to bring awareness to Department of Defense riders, as well as individuals who do not ride.

Currently, there are 90 chapters worldwide in the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Army, the Royal Air Force, Irish Defense Force and the Canadian Forces of Canada.

"The club is open to and comprised of men and women who share the love and passion to ride two wheels," said Master Sgt. Darryl Carpenter, 39th Logistics Readiness Squadron flight superintendent and Incirlik's motorcycle club president. "We fight for motorcyclists rights on base and help raise motorcycle awareness to let people know we're out there."

Formed in late 1999, the Green Knights were formally recognized in 2000 at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, N.J. The club works hand and hand with wing safety offices and security forces squadrons to help riders retain their rights while following the regulations set forth by the federal, state and base regulations.

"Joining the club helps promote togetherness, raise awareness and provide mentorship rides to improve your motorcycle skill sets for riding in Turkey," said Carpenter. "Most of all, (we ride for) the enjoyment of sharing your motorcycle passion with others."

Each week, the club meets and rides together.

"We do rides within the local area, like Adana, trips to Mersin, rides through the Tarsus Mountains and Pazanti," Carpenter added. "We've found some of the most scenic locations around Adana and even some locations further out that are best traveled by motorcycle."

Incirlik's motorcycle club currently has 15 active members.

"We do not discriminate against any type of motorcycle or scooter. We are always looking for new members. If you are a military, retired, DoD or military contractor motorcycle rider and would like to learn more about joining, contact the club's Facebook page," said Carpenter.

According to the Green Knights website, members are required to ride safe and have fun.

For more information about the Green Knights Military Motorcycle Club, visit www.greenknightsmc.com or go to Incirlik's Green Knights #44 Facebook page.