The Surgeon General's Veterans Day Safety Message

By Lt. Gen. Patricia D. HorohoNovember 7, 2013

The Surgeon General
(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

After four years of bitter war, on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day in the eleventh month, the world rejoiced and celebrated because a cease-fire agreement was signed with Germany, bringing an end to World War I. Since that day in 1918, November 11th has been set aside to honor America's Veterans for their patriotism and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the many freedoms we hold so dear.

The Veterans Day holiday is the perfect time to focus on Autumn Safety. The Army Safety Center launched its "Know the Signs" campaign (https://safety.army.mil) designed to heighten awareness of seasonal risk factors and provide leaders, Soldiers, and Civilians safety and risk assessment tools and resources to keep safe. Fatigue is often a risk factor contributing to serious accidents; ensure you are getting adequate sleep as well as nutrition and exercise. Learn more about the Performance Triad at this link: http://www.army.mil/article/88044/. For cold injury prevention resources, be sure to visit the US Army Public Health Command's website at: http://phc.amedd.army.mil/topics/discond/cip/Paqes/default.aspx. In addition, I want all leaders to emphasize sexual assault risks, prevention, and response in their holiday safety briefings. Guidance is available at: http://armymedicine.mil/pages/sharp.aspx.

I challenge you to honor our Veterans by finding innovative ways to influence our Soldiers, Civilians, and Family Members to exercise safe and responsible behavior on and off duty. I expect individuals at every level to apply the appropriate risk management to all activities to help create a truly safe and enjoyable Veterans Day holiday. Your dedication and commitment continue to make us Army Safe and Army Strong!

Serving to Heal...Honored to Serve!

Related Links:

Army Medicine website

U.S. Army Public Health Command

Performance Triad