Remembering fallen servicemembers and the importance of holiday safety

On this Memorial Day weekend, we honor our Veterans who gave their lives to protect the liberties afforded all Americans. They did not celebrate war, but they stepped forward and answered when America called. Generations of brave Americans have shouldered the burden of defending freedom, so we might continue living in a free and democratic society. I ask you to take a moment to remember them and all those that served to protect our nation, our citizens, and our way of life.

Commanders, directors and supervisors must work diligently to protect our servicemembers, civilians, and Families that continue to serve. Please prepare your subordinates for the upcoming Memorial Day holiday by conducting safety brief-ings that include discussions about highway safety: seat belt use, fatigue avoidance and the consequences of drinking alcohol and driving.

Before taking a road trip, discuss travel planning to include the requirement of scheduling adequate rest stops and avoiding late night driving. Highlight the importance of designated drivers. Many accidents are caused by distracted drivers using cell phones while driving. Always use a hands-free device. Before leaving on vacation, have your vehicle checked to make sure it’s safe.

Emphasize use of battle buddies when attending parties and other social events. Make a special effort to ensure new unit members receive proper sponsorship from our best Soldiers.

Warm weather brings on new seasonal hazards: sunburn, swimming in unmarked areas and the mixing of alcohol with swimming. Operate charcoal grills only outdoors. Never operate a motorized watercraft without the proper training and keep the right equipment on board.

Finally, I remind all Soldiers that the use of the TRiPS on-line POV risk assessment tool is mandatory for all personnel on leave, pass, or TDY. I also encourage our civilian employees to use it. The TRiPS POV risk assessment tool may be found at https://crc.army.mil/home/.

Please enjoy this holiday weekend in remembrance of all American military personnel who have died for our country in all of our wars and conflicts.

Army Safe is Army Strong!

Maj. Gen. Michael S. Linnington

Commanding General,

Joint Force Headquarters-National Capital Region

and the Military District of Washington