Sturgis, South Dakota — Officers from around the country assist Sturgis police with law enforcement duties during rally week.
Many of them patrol the busy streets on foot.
Maintaining law and order can be as simple as exchanging handshakes.
If Aaron Kahre wasn’t wearing his uniform and vest, you might mistake him for just another rallygoer strolling down Main Street in Sturgis.
“I am on vacation. Isn’t this obvious? Kahre spoke.
Kahre is a Huron native who works as a law enforcement officer for the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. He is using his vacation time to work the rally.
“I’ve been a biker since I was old enough to get a bike,” Kahre explained.
However, Kahre’s patrol involves walking rather than riding.
“During the day, I feel a little bit like a tour guide because you’re telling people where stuff is at, and how to get to Lead or Deadwood,” Kahre told me.
This friendly face-to-face interaction between law enforcement and rally attendees helps keep Sturgis safe during the event.
We try to be ambassadors. We want people to come here and enjoy themselves. However, we want them to keep safety in mind. We want to ensure that they are following all laws,” Sturgis Police Chief Geody VanDewater stated.
According to Kahre, bikers appreciate the officers’ duties at the rally.
“The support out here is incredible. I’ve probably had my hand shaken a hundred times, and I’ve only been at work for two hours today,” Kahre explained.
According to Kahre, one person even offered to pray for his safety.
“I would never turn it down. “I need all the help I can get at my age,” Kahre stated.
Calling on a higher power in Hog Heaven. This is Kahre’s 18th year working the rally, and God willing, he will return next year.
“I usually take a couple weeks and heal up before I decide whether to come back,” Kahre told me.
Kahre is not the only member of his family working the rally this week. Both his oldest son and daughter work security at the Sturgis Community Center.
