Martin Luther King Jr. Day celebrates Dr. King's life, his contributions to the Civil Rights Movement, and his enduring legacy. Dr. King employed nonviolent means to bring about social change and the promise of equality for all Americans. His promotion of public service drove Americans to action in the courageous struggle for equality in America. He is a role model for all of us and we take time to celebrate his life, his accomplishments, and his legacy.
As you enjoy this great holiday, remember that many of Americans will take to the roads, so please plan accordingly to reduce your risks. Drivingcontinues to be the most dangerous off-duty activity encountered by our Soldiers, Army Civilians, and their Family members. Distracted driving and
alcohol use are especially associated with holiday travel. Please remember to follow the fundamental rules to stay safe; watch your speed, keep an eye on the weather, use seatbelts, do not text while driving, watch weariness, and have a plan for a designated driver if consuming alcohol. Plan your trip using the Travel Risk Planning System at https://safety.army.mil. We
want you to enjoy a safe holiday season with your family and friends.
In many states, booster seats for children over 40 pounds until at least age 8 are required. For children 9 years and older, car seatbelts reduce injury risk by about 50 percent. Unfortunately, many parents unknowingly install car safety seats incorrectly or improperly restrain their children. Infants should ride in rear-facing seats as long as possible, until they are at least 12 months old and weigh at least 20 pounds. Children over one, and who weigh between 20 and 40 pounds, should be placed in forward-facing child safety seats. Around age 8, children can move to regular lap and shoulder belts. However, some vehicle restraint systems may not properly fit children weighing less than 80 pounds and who are less than 4 feet, 9 inches tall. In these instances, you may need to continue using a booster seat to properly protect your child. Regardless of the child restraint system used, all children ages 12 years and younger should ride in the back seat. This
eliminates the injury risk from front passenger-side airbags, and places children in the safest part of the vehicle in the event of an accident.
The holidays can be a stressful time, especially for those who serve overseas. I ask that you be a good Battle Buddy and keep an eye on one another. If you find a friend, coworker or Family member struggling, intervene and help get them the support they deserve. If you find yourself
needing help, do not hesitate to seek assistance through your chain of command or at this site: http://www.armyg1.army.mil/hr/suicide/default.asp.
CSM Hartless and I hope everyone enjoys some well-deserved rest and relaxation with family and friends over the holiday weekend. The entire command team is proud of all you do. But do not relax your vigilance and your efforts to ensure safety. Your personal involvement and genuine
concern can make a huge difference in saving a life. Your actions can save our most precious resource, our people. Army Safe is Army Strong.
Army Strong!
LTG Mike Ferriter CSM Jeff Hartless
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