ANNISTON ARMY DEPOT, Ala. -- The holiday season has arrived! For many, this is a great time of joy and celebration with family and friends.

It's such a joyous season and a time to be thankful for the year's blessings as we celebrate and revive our family traditions.

As a depot family, we have a long tradition of amazing generosity.

Over the last few months, you've poured yourselves into the community in response to the needs of others.

As of yesterday, the tally indicates your lavish donations supported 210 children in protective custody at the Department of Human Resources. While we may never see their faces, we can imagine that their hearts have will be lifted on Christmas morning. And you did not stop there, you remembered your depot teammates and their families who are experiencing hardships during this time of the year, too. Without fail, you continued showing your concern and kindness by donating $9,201, to help those who needed it most.

When this year's annual Combined Federal Campaign kicked off, there was an overwhelming response by depot employees who chose to support many of the non-profit organizations and charities who depend upon the donations to remain open. Because of your pledges, $155,435 has been contributed to CFC so far. When we close the books on it later this week, the grand total will be sent on behalf of each of you and on behalf of the Anniston Army Depot.

On behalf of all those who receive your blessings and may not have the chance to thank you personally, let me do that now! THANK YOU! Thank you for what you do every day. You never cease to amaze me.

Once again this year, as you gather around your holiday tables with friends and loved ones, I ask that you remember our military service members and civilians who fearlessly volunteer to serve our nation and who are, at this very moment, defending our nation in distant places -- away from their families this holiday.

We are forever grateful for their sacrifices. Because of the shared commitment by those of us serving at home and abroad, our families are able to experience freedoms cherished by so many.

Whether you are enjoying some downtime at home or taking to the road to visit, keep safety in mind. Do not let your guard down. I ask that you avoid complacency and please do not take any risks.

Just like the depot's Target Zero program helps us identify safety issues here on depot, your goal for personal safety this season should be zero accidents.

Plan ahead, make smart choices for yourself and look out for others.

As a reminder, when traveling, exercise caution as winter weather and holiday traffic may complicate your plans. Ensure you rest and adequately prepare yourself and your vehicles for your trip.

Drive defensively, buckle up, carry the right safety equipment in your car and do not speed. Of course, do not text and drive -- and be sure to avoid all other driver-distractions.

Additionally, as I am sure you noticed, December is Drunk and Drugged Driving Awareness Month. Take a close look at the wrecked vehicles parked in the vicinity of the entrance ways to the installation. They serve as reminders for all of us of the consequences of alcohol and drug related incidents.

Remember, a drunk or drugged driving conviction can change your life and a drunk or drugged driving accident can end your life or the lives of other innocent people who are sharing the road.

Finally, the holidays can be a very difficult time for some. Depression and feelings of anxiety can be common.

If you or someone you know or love feels alone, neglected, stressed or depressed, there is help available NOW, and there is ALWAYS hope for the future. The staff at the Employee Assistance Program stands ready to assist at 256-240-3182 or 256-240-3379. Our SHARP line is also available to you, any time at 256-624-8510.

As we look forward to 2017, please let me take this brief opportunity to thank you, once again, for all you do in support of Anniston Army Depot, our Army and our nation. From my family to yours, we hope you will have a happy, healthy and safe holiday season and you will return renewed and refreshed in the New Year!