Green Knights bike club provides fellowship for riders Published Sept. 10, 2014 By Senior Airman Tristin English 375th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. -- The Green Knights began in 1999 as a group of Air Force motorcycle riders and in 2000 was formally recognized by McGuire Air Force Base as an official Air Force organization. Since then, the group has turned into both a military mentorship and riding organization. The Green Knights have organizations stateside and overseas as well. Matt Howard, President of the Scott Air Force Base Green Knights chapter, said, "We have more than 200 chapters geographically located around the world. We [Green Knights] teach new or inexperienced riders how to ride, participate in community service projects and provide a networking outlet for members." The Green Knights club welcomes all military and Department of Defense riders. "We are not, per se, a veteran's organization or a veteran's club like the VFW riders or the Leathernecks. We allow veterans to join, but our main membership is comprised of active duty or retirees," said Howard. The Green Knights emphasize safe riding, on and off base. For example, when a member of the club has to commit to a permanent change of station, if there is a Green Knights chapter established at their new location, the club offers an outlet to learn the local road customs, courtesies and laws. "To be that voice of safety, the riders refer to the base's mandatory motorcycle safety course," said Howard. "The club was the voice of concern in the most recent motorcyclist identification policy here." The Green Knights don't discriminate against the type of motorcycle an individual has and they do not actively recruit members. "It doesn't matter if it's a Yamaha, Suzuki, street bike or cruiser," said Howard. "We treat all riders the same regardless and when it comes to getting members into the organization it's usually from word of mouth or talking about it at a motorcycle all call." The Scott Air Force Base Green Knights chapter currently has 30 members and welcomes new members to join the organization. "This is the second chapter I've been in," said Master Sgt. Ben Parish, Air Mobility Command headquarters. "I was in a chapter at Andrews AFB as well. I enjoy being part of the group because I can call anyone in a Green Knights chapter no matter where I am, in the states or overseas, for help with anything. My experiences have been nothing but good. Anytime you need something someone is always willing to come and help." For more information on the Green Knights contact Matt Howard at 910-3151 or visit www.facebook.com/GKChapter18/info.