Contact Us
The American Legion
Department of Florida
1912 A Lee Road
Orlando, FL 32810
800.393.3378
Main: 407.295.2631
Fax: 407.299.0901
mail@floridalegion.org
Message from American Legion Rider and FMSP Program Administrator Jim Wineland
I spent eight rewarding years serving as Chairman of the American Legion Riders – Department of Florida before retiring from that role in June of 2026 to focus on my work as Program Administrator of the Florida Motorcycle Safety Program (FMSP).
The program is dedicated to making Florida’s roads safer for motorcyclists through education, training promotion, and outreach. Since the program launched in 2023, Florida has made positive progress in reducing motorcycle crashes and fatalities, but it continues to rank in the top three states in the nation for motorcycle-related fatalities. Our work is far from done.
As a lifelong rider and someone with deep ties to the riding community, safety has always been paramount to me. I thought I’d share a little background on the history of motorcycle safety, along with some Army guidance for mentors and leaders that I have learned along the way. I hope those who lead group rides or provide rider training will find these insights helpful.
Research into helmet benefits began in the 1930s after a high-profile crash involving T.E. Lawrence, the British Army officer and writer better known as Lawrence of Arabia, which spurred neurosurgeon Sir Hugh Cairns to advocate for helmet use.
The first major public shift toward motorcycle safety came in the 1940s and 1950s, influenced by World War II military riding practices. During this time, helmets became widely accepted; they were made of leather and cork, while protective gear such as leather jackets became more common.
Looking at other resources, below is a slide based on one of the Army's rider training programs that asks Road Chaplains to consider several thought-provoking questions about mentoring and leadership. I believe these questions are just as important today for anyone who leads or mentors riders.
These are also good questions for our Road Captains to consider before a ride: “How do I deliver the message?” and afterward: “Did I achieve my goal?”
For example:
My responsibilities to my group
- Make sure every rider walks around and thoroughly inspects their motorcycle before each ride.
Regulatory requirements
- Deliver a clear understanding of the planned route and expectations for the ride.
Creating a Disciplined Rider
- Instill in each rider the importance of following established procedures through your demeanor and delivery of the message.
Fostering a Culture of Safety
- Your approach to safety matters. If you’re preaching the importance of protective gear but don’t wear any yourself, why would anyone listen?
Administrative Actions for Safety Non-Compliance
- Discipline is dictated by the organization under which you are riding, but as the ride leader, you can move someone to the back of the group for safety reasons.
Motorcycle Mentorship Program
- One of the main goals is to develop a common-sense approach to safety. Through positive support, new riders will develop a “can-do” attitude toward safe riding practices.
Motorcycle rider training became a requirement in Florida on July 1, 2008, when riders were required to complete an approved Basic RiderCourse℠ (BRC) before obtaining a motorcycle endorsement.
Remember, most of the rules are based on riders’ mistakes and lessons learned from those mistakes. These rules are designed to keep us all safe.
Motorcycle riding is an uplifting experience if you learn to respect the rules and hazards along the way. It’s up to you to “ride your own ride” and know your limitations.
The individuals below are volunteers dedicated to the success of the American Legion Riders program. Their contact information has been provided, and they are eager to help and increase involvement. Please be respectful and considerate of the time these volunteers offer to make this program successful.
