By Kristi Antley
Motorcycles became readily available to the American public in the early 1900s, promoting adventure, rebellion, mystery, and unobstructed freedom. The initial prototypes were not only for fun; they were fast, agile machines that could easily navigate the battlefields of World War I and II, delivering messages when radio signals were weak, transporting supplies, and aiding injured soldiers. Unfortunately, bikers were often stereotyped as mean, dangerous, or disorderly, and viewed as outcasts or outlaws.
Vintage Hollywood actors such as James Dean, Marlon Brando, and Steve McQueen greatly softened the negative image, creating an atmosphere of glamor, sex appeal, masculinity, and power. Although motorcyclists were viewed through a cloudy lens during that period of history, the general public instantly developed a curiosity and appreciation for motorcycles, resulting in honor for the sport and respect for the drivers. Informal riding groups or organized clubs were highly beneficial to veterans being reintroduced into society; they provided common ground for interaction, resources, support, and camaraderie.
Today most biker groups, motorcycle clubs, and riding organizations are still based on a foundation of loyalty, patriotism, mutual respect, service, and protection. Each chapter has its own expectations and rules, governing hierarchy, apparel guidelines, territories, and events. Contrary to popular belief, the majority of these “brotherhoods” are based on a common interest other than just riding, such as supporting charities, promoting religious morals and political beliefs, protecting vulnerable citizens, and hosting community fundraisers. While some riders prefer solo “wind therapy” sessions, for those who are interested in connecting with active biker groups, here are a few great groups in Lexington County:
Christian Motorcycle Association
“Changing the World, One Heart at a Time”
Pastor Herb Shreve, founder of the Christian Motorcycle Association (CMA), realized that his most effective pulpit was his motorcycle. Established in 1975, the CMA is interdenominational and evangelistic, with over 1,000 chapters in the United States (14 in South Carolina) and an international presence in more than 30 countries. This 501(c)3 non-profit organization reveals the lengths evangelicalism is willing to change in order to reach new people in new ways. Its mission is: “To inspire our leaders and members to be the most organized, advanced, equipped, financially stable organization, full of integrity in the motorcycling industry and the Kingdom of God.”
CMA’s motorcycle ministry equips and trains members to reach the lost and encourage the hurting through donations, sponsorships and fundraisers. Members geographically and spiritually meet bikers where they are to share the Gospel, traveling to classic annual events such as the Sturgis Motorcycle Classic in South Dakota, Bike Week in Daytona Beach, Fla., and the Loudon Motorcycle Classic and Race in New Hampshire. Anyone above 12 years of age is invited to join and participate in CMA’s Kid’s Training and Patch program. There are many spiritual growth resources and materials offered to active members to develop a deeper relationship with Christ, as well as a free electronic magazine available to non-members called the “CMA Heartbeat”.
Blue Knights® International Law Enforcement Motorcycle Club, Inc. “Ride With Pride”
With over 15,000 members in more than 650 chapters across 31 countries, the Blue Knights Law Enforcement Motorcycle Club (LEMC) is the world’s largest law enforcement motorcycle club, consisting of active and retired law enforcement men and women. In 1974 several officers in Maine gathered over their passion for riding and formed the non-profit fraternal organization. Being a family-centered group, LEMC also invites spouses and children to participate in various rides, group functions, and events.
LEMC’s pledge reminds members and everyone in attendance of their purpose: “As a Blue Knight, I pledge to act with honor and pride to promote motorcycling and motorcycle safety by being an example of the safe use, operation, and enjoyment of motorcycles. I will work at all times to improve the relationship between the motorcycling law enforcement community and the general public. The fraternal spirit will always guide me in relating to other Blue Knights.” A few highlights of the group include support of businesses owned and operated by members, annual academic scholarships, member memorial recognition, opportunities for family members with the “Ladies of the Knights” and “Little Knights”, and the Blue Knight Special Fund which assists members who have been injured during club functions. As the LEMC website says, “There are no strangers, only friends you haven’t met”.
Patriot Guard Riders
“Standing for Those Who Stood for Us”
Other than a love for motorcycle riding, the Patriot Guard Riders (PGR) only require that potential members have a respect for military and first responders, their families, and each other. There are no fees or dues, no required purchases, or required meetings. The group’s main mission is to “attend the funeral services of fallen American heroes as invited guests of the family”. The presence of PGR members ensures dignity and respect at memorial services honoring fallen military heroes, first responders and honorably discharged Veterans.
Founded in 2005, PGR has grown to include thousands of members and their families across America. A volunteer 501(c) (3) non-profit organization, the group exists to shield families of fallen heroes from those that would disrupt the services of their loved ones. In addition to those responsibilities and benefits, the PGR has partnered with the Gary Sinise Foundation to support and recognize Gold Star families (the immediate family of deceased service members) with their Snowball Express program.
Honor Missions and HOTH Missions are the main two services provided by the PGR. Honor Missions are typically requests for service at funerals and memorial services; HOTH (Help on the Homefront) Missions include those that are meant to honor a group or a living individual through a dedication, a parade on Veterans Day, a sendoff for a military unit, and escorts to veteran’s events. This program basically provides services at any military or first responder related event that is not a funeral or memorial service. Services are provided by PGR without charge out of honor and respect for the families of fallen heroes.
Christian Motorcycle Association
Blue Knights International LEMC
Patriot Guard Riders
