Commander’s Message
Garrison Commander
Fort McPherson and Fort Gillem
Monday is Memorial Day. We tend to approach this traditional first day of summer vacation with both the solemnity of its original purpose and in celebrating the gathering of Family and friends.
I have the honor to attend two Memorial Day events. The first one was the Georgia State Memorial Day Ceremony at the state capitol on Thursday. The second will be the 66th Annual Memorial Day Ceremony being held at the Marietta National Cemetery.
These ceremonies are important to us as Soldiers, retirees and DA Civilians. They commemorate the ultimate sacrifice made by those who have served America in military uniform. Those fallen warriors are an intricate part in the support of all the freedoms we enjoy in this country.
We should all take time over this busy weekend to remember their devotion to duty and selfless sacrifice. I invite you to join me in Marietta Monday. If you can’t make that event, perhaps there is some sort of memorial happening closer to your home. If not, I would like you to take a moment, wherever you may be, over the holiday and reflect on all the blessings you have thanks to those who have served. Maybe you can share a personal story or two with family and friends during the next few days that will help them to understand what Memorial Day means to you.
Of course, I don’t expect you to spend the whole time in solemn reflection. We need to take the opportunity to enjoy those freedoms in a break from the day-to-day. Those freedoms include pool and beach openings, boating opportunities and cookouts with loved ones. The weather promises to be excellent for all these outdoor activities and more. However, please don’t let a momentary lapse in judgment ruin your fun.
First, make sure you leave in plenty of time to get where you are going. You all know the Atlanta area congested roads only get more choked over the holiday weekends. Make sure you have alternate routes planned and keep track of the traffic by television, radio or internet. If you plan ahead, your frustration level will be diminished and you won’t feel the need to drive aggressively, or faster, in order to reach your fun in the sun.
Next, let me encourage you to do everything safely. If you enjoy alcoholic beverages, ensure that you do so moderately. Alcohol, along with soda and our famous Georgia sweet tea, does not hydrate you. They will make you more susceptible to injury from the 90+ degree heat and the blazing sun. Make sure you stay hydrated with water and protect your skin with plenty of sun screen.
I know you’ve heard it all before, but I am compelled to remind you that drinking alcohol and driving, swimming or boating, doesn’t mix. Think before you drink. Even if you don’t drink, watch out for your buddy. This is especially important around water. Don’t let any of your family and friends get in over their head " literally.
Additionally, it’s getting pretty dry here in Georgia right now. It wouldn’t take much of a spark to start a fire. As you grill those burgers and hot dogs, be aware of what’s going on with your charcoal. Make sure your fire is cold before you dump it. If you happen to be in a park or resort, don’t leave your grill unattended. Also, watch the little ones around the grill area. They can get too close and burn themselves.
These are just a few high points. If you plan before you act, your chances of having a safe time this weekend are much improved. While we need you to come back on Tuesday refreshed and whole to continue our mission, it’s even more important you be there for your loved ones.
Be safe and enjoy.
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