U.S. Army Sgt. Michael Misheff flies the American flag from the back of a CH-47 Chinook helicopter over southern Kandahar province, Afghanistan, Aug. 24, 2014. Misheff is a crew chief assigned to 16th Combat Aviation Brigade. The pilots and crew chie...

Veterans Day commemorates the end of World War I. At the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, 1918 Allied negotiators met with German officials in a railway carriage near Compiègne Forest in France, and signed an armistice that put an end to the First World War. Over time, as the war to end all wars gave way to other conflicts and other battles, the day once called Armistice Day came to be called Veterans Day. Please take time this week to reflect and thank veterans, past and present, for their service to our nation.

I encourage everyone to take some much deserved time off to enjoy and celebrate with Family and friends. As you embark on your long weekend, please exercise caution and emphasize safety when taking part in holiday recreational activities.

While you make your holiday weekend plans, I ask that you keep safety a priority. As is the case with most holiday periods, there will be increased traffic on the roads. Remain vigilant while driving and do not take unnecessary risks such as speeding, texting and driving, and especially drinking and driving.

This is a good time of year to reemphasize upcoming winter risks and hazards. Ensure that your personnel are aware of safety hazards normally associated with dropping temperatures. Previous harsh winters have taught us to be proactive in identifying not only hazards around the house but minor maintenance such as checking and insulating water pipes before harsh weather transforms minor maintenance into major damage. It is also important to use carbon monoxide detectors in the home as we begin to button up windows for the winter.

Remember the sacrifices of those who came before us and the duties and responsibilities that we carry as citizens and Soldiers, alike. Continue to do your part to keep America free. Thank you for your service and happy Veterans Day.

Always Out Front! Army Strong

ROBERT P. ASHLEY

Major General, USA

Commanding