Stay safe this holiday weekend

  • Published
  • By Col. Steve Arquiette
  • 60th Air Mobility Wing commander
TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  Labor Day was established by Congress to recognize the contributions of the American worker, which is a source of our nation's strength and prosperity. For the Air Force, it also marks the end of the 101 Critical Days of Summer safety campaign.

As we begin this well-deserved four-day weekend, I encourage everyone to enjoy the last days of the summer, but to do so safely and with situational awareness. Everyone counts and everyone counts on each other. In order to fulfill our extremely important global mobility mission during this time of war, we need each person healthy and ready for duty.

Historically, Air Mobility Command experiences one serious mishap during the Labor Day weekend. During this year's 101 Critical Days of Summer campaign, AMC has had three accidents, with two of those coming from Travis. Most mishaps are preventable, and I encourage you to always be looking out for the next accident that is waiting to happen.

The extended weekend also affords our members and their families the opportunity to travel or participate in their favorite recreational activities. There are certain safety precautions to take with any outdoor activity such as hiking, camping, swimming, barbequing or any other activity you may be participating in. I encourage you to be aware of these precautions, and adhere to them to ensure your safety and the safety of others around you.

Safety is no accident and I need each of you to thoughtfully plan your outdoor recreation, motorcycle rides or any events where alcohol will be consumed. Last week, Travis lost an Airman in an alcohol-related motorcycle accident. This tragedy marks the second time this year we have lost an Airman during the 101 Critical Days of Summer in a motorcycle accident. Riding motorcycles is a high-risk activity - mixing motorcycles and alcohol proves to be deadly.

While we all need to take the time to take care of ourselves and relax, we must do so smartly. Make a plan before you go out, especially if drinking will be involved, and stick to it! Following the guidelines provided by 0-0-1-3 helps immensely. Also, the Airmen Against Drunk Driving program affords you an opportunity to make the right choice by calling 424-0013. Each of you must be aware of your surroundings and make responsible choices, and those responsible choices include using the programs we have in place to ensure you arrive home safely.

As we near the end of 101 Critical Days of Summer campaign, we should not lose focus. Safety has to be your number one priority, both on and off duty! I need your help in preventing further loss of life here at Travis.

BE PROUD & BE SAFE!