MCB Camp Butler: Okinawa, Japan - (January, 2010) – Between January 12th and 23rd over 12,000 Marines attended the motorcycle safety orientation film “Semper Ride” at Marine Corps Bases Japan. The Semper Ride events tour started on mainland Japan at Marine Corp Air Station Iwakuni, carried on to the island of Okinawa and premiered at Marine Corp Air Station Futenma, then Marine Corp Camps Foster, Kinser, Courtney, Hansen and Schwab.
In conjunction with the film premiere, Marines interacted with 4-time X-Games gold medalist Ronnie Renner, world stunt motorcycle champion Chris “Teach” McNeil and freestyle motocross pioneer Jeff Tilton. The pro’s signed autographs and educated Marines on the latest options in Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). One of the most popular elements of the traveling show was the suit Teach used to crash in the movie at 40mph+. Camp Butler’s Director of Safety, Lawrence “Jake” Jacobs stated; "The showing of the Semper Ride video was an overall success for Marine Corps Bases Japan during our annual Back in the Saddle (BITS) training evolution that produced 17 shows over a two week period. It was well received from all riders and potential future riders from active duty Marines, sailors, and civilian employees. The professionalism of the Semper Ride team and the entire video production proved to have a lasting effect on all that attended the training."
Thanks to the efforts like this, Headquarters Marine Corps Safety Division has helped reduce motorcycle deaths by 44% in 2009 from the unacceptable fatality rate of 25 Marines in 2008.
But even one Marine fatality is too much, so Semper Ride and the premiere events are part of a fresh new approach to educate Marines in what is involved with owning and operating a motorcycle. “It has been an honor to be a part of this project and to be a part of a team that is helping to mitigate a problem that is not only a huge concern for the Marine Corps but all branches of the military.” Semper Ride Executive Producer Jim Conway said. The film uses pro athletes to pass on valuable information in a relaxed peer-to-peer style. The Headquarters Marine Corps Safety Office’s strong support for the events has been a key element in impacting each Marine with the intended safety oriented message. As a result, the 2009/10 events have proven very successful with large attendances and great reviews from the Marines. "Semper Ride has been instrumental in reaching our young Marines on their level and successfully delivering a safe and responsible riding message,” said Col. Fortunato, Director of Safety, Headquarters Marine Corps Safety Division.
The Semper Ride events supplement existing Marine Corps motorcycle educational initiatives; but even more, Semper Ride is meant to inspire Marines to make the right choices that will still allow them to really enjoy their motorcycles, but in a responsible manner.
About Semper Ride:
Movie trailer: http://www.semperride.com/videos.html
The Semper Ride campaign is produced in conjunction with the United States Marine Corps by One Eyed Bird Marketing and Entertainment & Strategic Action Solutions. The team consists of Dirk Collins, Jeff Tilton and Jim Conway. Semper Ride was produced to deliver state of the art, high definition, big screen action that promotes a responsible riding theme. The ongoing campaign combines the film with events, a website, public service announcements and local and regional programs.
Athletes: James Stewart, Ben Bostrom, Ronnie Renner, Myles Richmond, Tommy Clowers, Jeremy McGrath, Keith Code, Chris “Teach” McNeil, Jason Britton, Sara Price, Josh Herrin and beyond.
About One Eyed Bird
One Eyed Bird is a lifestyle based marketing and entertainment agency. We provide brand and campaign management focused on integrating high quality film, events and social media. Our specialty is creating authentic, personal experiences within action sports, outdoor adventure and cause related missions. With credibility among core influencers we help build long-term relationships between brands and their audience.
About Strategic Action Solutions
Strategic Action Solutions is a general risk management consulting firm specializing in action sports and dynamic risk environments. SAS provides turnkey risk management solutions for companies and organizations looking for a more energetic and entertaining method of delivery than traditional safety messaging. Using today’s successful entertainment and media techniques, SAS has been able to present what were traditionally dry and uninspired safety messages in a new vibrant format that is intended to motivate viewers towards positive behavior changes.