What is Sergeant at Arms in a Motorcycle Club?
In the world of motorcycle clubs, there are various roles and positions that each member plays. One of the most critical and respected positions is the Sergeant at Arms. But what exactly is a Sergeant at Arms, and what are their responsibilities?
Definition
A Sergeant at Arms is a high-ranking officer in a motorcycle club who is responsible for maintaining law and order within the club. They are often considered the "enforcer" or "bodyguard" of the club, and are responsible for ensuring the safety and well-being of all members.
Responsibilities
The Sergeant at Arms is responsible for a wide range of tasks, including:
- Security: They are responsible for ensuring the safety and security of all members, both on and off the road. This includes providing protection from outside threats, such as rival clubs or law enforcement.
- Discipline: They are responsible for enforcing the club’s rules and regulations, and for meting out discipline to members who break those rules.
- Intimidation: They are often called upon to intimidate or persuade others to comply with the club’s wishes.
- Investigations: They may be responsible for investigating incidents or disputes within the club, and for gathering evidence to support disciplinary actions.
Key Qualities
To be a successful Sergeant at Arms, an individual must possess a number of key qualities, including:
- Courage: They must be willing to stand up for themselves and the club, even in the face of danger or adversity.
- Intimidation: They must be able to intimidate or persuade others to comply with the club’s wishes.
- Discipline: They must be able to enforce the club’s rules and regulations, and to mete out discipline to members who break those rules.
- Loyalty: They must be fiercely loyal to the club and its members, and must be willing to put the needs of the club above their own.
History
The role of Sergeant at Arms has its roots in the early days of motorcycle clubs. In the 1930s and 1940s, motorcycle clubs began to form in the United States, and the Sergeant at Arms position was seen as a way to provide protection and security for club members.
Types of Sergeant at Arms
There are several types of Sergeant at Arms, including:
- Club Sergeant at Arms: This is the highest-ranking Sergeant at Arms in the club, and is responsible for overseeing all security and disciplinary matters.
- Road Captain Sergeant at Arms: This position is responsible for leading the club’s rides and events, and for ensuring the safety and security of club members on the road.
- Clubhouse Sergeant at Arms: This position is responsible for maintaining security and discipline within the clubhouse, and for ensuring the safety and well-being of club members.
Code of Conduct
Sergeant at Arms are expected to adhere to a strict code of conduct, which includes:
- Respect: They must show respect to all members of the club, regardless of rank or position.
- Loyalty: They must be fiercely loyal to the club and its members, and must be willing to put the needs of the club above their own.
- Integrity: They must be honest and trustworthy, and must always act with integrity and fairness.
- Confidentiality: They must maintain confidentiality regarding club business and member information.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Sergeant at Arms is a critical and respected position within a motorcycle club. They are responsible for maintaining law and order within the club, and for ensuring the safety and well-being of all members. To be a successful Sergeant at Arms, an individual must possess a number of key qualities, including courage, intimidation, discipline, and loyalty.
