KAISERSLAUTERN, Germany - One of the privileges to being stationed in Germany is being able to drive on the autobahn. This road system is known for its increased speed limits and areas without speed limits entirely. In order to protect its Soldiers, one Army command is taking steps to prevent injury and loss of life or property on the open road.
The 21st Theater Sustainment Command held a command-wide safety stand down day focused on vehicle and driver safety Aug. 7.
Every unit within the 21st TSC took time out of their day to bring their Soldiers together to discuss driver safety, vehicle maintenance and the influence of alcohol on drivers. Unit leadership also educated their personnel on the dangers of driving fatigued, how to prevent a driving under the influence charge and the dangers of driving while distracted. Another important topic of discussion was having a plan every time a Soldier gets behind the wheel of their car.
"Safety is always important, no matter what the situation," said Master Sgt. Eugene L. Saunders, the 21st Special Troops Battalion, 21st TSC operations noncommissioned officer in charge and a native of Pittsburgh. "The commanding general (Maj. Gen. John R. O'Connor) wanted this safety stand down; I think it's great that he takes such a high interest in his Soldiers well-being."
As an added precaution, every Soldier's personally-owned vehicle within the command was inspected by an Army mechanic. The maintenance personnel ensured the vehicle fluids were at safe levels, the brakes were in working order, all lights were functional and that the tires had enough tread on them.
"We are having the mechanics do an in-depth safety inspection on each vehicle," said Staff Sgt. Ian Dimmick, an operations noncommissioned officer with the 21st STB and a native of The Dalles, Oregon. "We want to make sure that each vehicle is checked before the Soldier leaves today."
Other organizations from U.S. Army Garrison Rheinland-Pfalz and the 21st TSC gave presentations including the fire department and Soldiers from the 18th Military Police Brigade.
Although other topics such as fire safety and force protection were covered, the theme of the day came through in every presentation: today is about vehicle and driver safety.
"(There are) higher speed limits in Germany, so everyone should have their car in tip-top shape, so they will not have any problems on the road," said Brian J. Judge, the safety director for the 21st TSC and a native of Lawrence, Massachusetts. "Having your vehicle inspected by a military mechanic is a good way to prevent potential mechanical problems while driving."
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