Motorcycle Helmets Still Required for Sailors, Marines

The Naval Safety Center reminds all Sailors and Marines they are required to wear a helmet while riding a motorcycle, both on and off base, even if the state in which they are riding permits bikers to go without. This reminder comes because Sailors and Marines stationed in Virginia recently may have heard about a proposed change to existing laws that, if passed, would allow riders to forego the helmet on roads considered scenic byways. Master Chief Machinist’s Mate (SW/AW) James Cooke, a safety specialist at the Naval Safety Center said that, no matter what, Sailors and Marines must wear helmets. "Bottom line: you have to wear one," said Cooke. Naval instructions require all military motorcyclists to wear either full-face, 3/4 or 1/2 helmets approved by the Department of Transportation or the Snell Memorial Foundation.