DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR.
HOLIDAY SAFETY MESSAGE
Each year on the third Monday in January, our Nation commemorates the life, legacy,
and dream of one of our most respected Americans, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.; an
activist, humanitarian and national leader in the African-American Civil Rights Movement.
When we celebrate this holiday, we are recognizing the countless contributions of a man
who brought hope and healing to our Nation, and honor the values he exemplified in his
life as well as his teachings-courage, truth, respect, integrity, humility, and service. Dr.
King's strength and purpose are matched by those of the men and women who serve our
nation, representing Americans of all ethnic, religious, and cultural backgrounds.
This holiday weekend also affords each of us the opportunity to spend time with family
and friends, as well as participate in MLK Day celebration events. As you do so, I ask that
you keep in mind hazardous winter road conditions due to ice, snow, rain, and/or fog,
coupled with extended hours of darkness, which increases the risk of vehicle accidents. If
you plan to travel, consider that the decisions you make before and during travel can save
your life and the lives of others. The Travel Risk Planning System (TRiPS) is an excellent
vehicle accident prevention tool for assessing an individual's risk. While not mandatory
for DA Civilians (unless on TOY or PCS), it is for all Soldiers. TRiPS can be accessed at
https://trips.safetv.army.mil/army/Home.aspx, (CAC/PIV required).
As the winter season continues, so does the use of wood burning stoves, space
heaters, and fireplaces. Although all these heating methods are acceptable, they are also
major contributing factors in residential fires. Be sure every level of your home has a
working smoke alarm, and be sure to check it monthly. When using heat generating
products and equipment, remember to also invest in a carbon monoxide detection device
to safeguard against carbon monoxide poisoning.
The theme for the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday is: "Remember, Celebrate, Act- A
Day On, Not a Day Off." As you celebrate this special holiday, I ask that each of you
remain aware of the safety risks that life presents to us each day. Remember to plan your
holiday weekend activities with an eye toward minimizing hazards and returning to work
rested and ready to support AMC and our Army missions.
Each of you is a valued member of the AMC team. Thank you for all of your hard work
and dedication. Have a safe and enjoyable holiday weekend.
AMC SAFE IS ARMY STRONG!
DENNIS L. VIA
General, USA
Commanding
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