1. On February 20, we will celebrate the birthdays of Presidents George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. Through tradition, these birthdays have become a time to honor and celebrate all our former presidents' birthdays. I salute all leaders, past and present, who have and continue to serve this great nation.

2. Safety for one's self and one another is important during any holiday, and I encourage you to take every precaution to ensure a safe and joyous celebration. Service members going on leave, pass, or moving from one post to another must complete the automated risk assessment. Civilian employees must also do the same (per Army Regulation 385-10) when using their privately owned vehicles during a move or going TDY and are encouraged to use this tool when taking leave. Your chain of command must brief all service members and civilians on preventive actions to avoid accidents or injuries.

3. I challenge you to eliminate common risk factors, such as excessive speed, alcohol, fatigue, failure to wear seatbelts, and failure to wear protective gear for motorcycle riding. The automated TRiPS POV Risk Assessment web-based tool can be found on the US Army Combat Readiness/Safety Center website at https://safety.army.mil.

4. George Washington once wrote, "Discipline is the soul of an army. It makes small numbers formidable; procures success to the weak and esteem to all."

5. Thank you for the great contributions you and your Family make every day in ensuring our nation's freedom. Have an enjoyable, accident-free weekend with your Family and friends.

WILLIAM B. CALDWELL, IV

Lieutenant General, USA

Senior Commander

Fort Sam Houston and Camp Bullis