Thanksgiving Day Safety Message
Our Nation will celebrate Thanksgiving on Nov. 22, 2012, a day set aside to pause, reflect and give thanks for the gifts of peace, freedom and the opportunity we share as Americans.
Historically, holiday weekends are periods of increased risk. The additional time off provides a well-earned respite from the duties and rigors of training and an opportunity to travel and visit family and friends. Increased travel means increased exposure to the hazards associated with heavy holiday traffic, unexpected adverse weather and impaired drivers.
Additionally, many of us will enjoy home cooked meals prepared by loving hands; please ensure you’re prepared with the necessary safety precautions, such as a working fire extinguisher and smoke detectors, when baking and frying turkeys.
Encourage your junior leaders to identify “at risk” personnel and empower them to intervene when appropriate. Alcohol use, reckless driving, speed, fatigue and failure to wear seat belts or required motorcycle personal protective gear are behaviors that are inconsistent with good order and discipline. Use every resource at your disposal to raise safety awareness.
I extend my sincere appreciation for your service to our Nation. Tradition encourages we reflect and give thanks this time of year — I want to extend my deepest regards and admiration to all the men and women in uniform. I am grateful for each of you and the dedication, selfless service and sacrifice you and your families make every day. Let us unite in spirit and deed to make this Thanksgiving the safest. Happy Thanksgiving!
Always Out Front! Army Strong!
