Columbus Day Safety Message 2015

By Lt. Gen. Patricia Horoho, Army Surgeon GeneralOctober 7, 2015

Army Surgeon General
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History holds remarkable examples of heroism and adventure, and the voyage of Christopher Columbus from Lisbon, Portugal, in 1492 is one of history's great stories of exploration and bravery. We have come to celebrate Columbus' arrival in the Americas as the day that charted the course of our Nation's history.

Columbus Day, the first holiday weekend of fall, is accompanied by a transition to cooler temperatures, tailgate parties, hunting season, and enjoying the great outdoors. Just like the change in seasons, activities and hazards also change. To help Soldiers counter the hazards, the US Army Combat Readiness/Safety Center recently released the new Seasonal Safety Campaign, Ready...or Not?, a resource that leaders and supervisors may use to augment their existing risk management programs. The seasonal safety campaign, including tools and resources, is available at the Army Combat Readiness/Safety Center website, at: https://safety.army.mil/HOME.aspx. All Soldiers are reminded to have their vehicles inspected and use the Travel Risk Planning System (TRiPS), if they plan to take leave, pass, or be on TDY. Additionally, I want all leaders to emphasize sexual assault risks, prevention, and response in their holiday safety briefings. Guidance is available at http://armymedicine.mil/Pages/SHARP.aspx. Our goal is to provide a safe and healthy environment for all Soldiers, Civilians, Family Members, visitors, and contractors across our command.

CSM Ecker and I encourage all Soldiers, Civilians and Family Members to fully enjoy this historic holiday. We challenge each of you to place safety at the top of your holiday plans and make the "right' decision in whatever you do. Have a safe and happy Columbus Day weekend. Army Safe is Army Strong.

Serving to Heal...Honored to Serve!

Related Links:

Army Medicine homepage

MEDCOM SHARP

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Army Combat Readiness/Safety Center