FORT LEONARD WOOD, Mo. — On Monday, we will commemorate the life, legacy and dream of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. His leadership during the civil rights movement reshaped our nation and laid the foundation for America to become a more perfect union. From the 1955 Montgomery bus boycott to the 1963 march for jobs and freedom in Washington, D.C., Dr. King served on the front lines of the movement to bring equality to all Americans, regardless of race, gender or creed. Dr. King’s leadership was motivational and his life was inspirational.Dr. King once said, “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’” It is fitting, then, that Martin Luther King Jr. Day is the only federal holiday designated as a national day of service. It calls us to reach out and engage our fellow Americans, help those in need and improve our communities. We encourage every teammate to serve others.Since 1948, when the military became the first of America’s institutions to end segregation, we consistently strive to treat all people with compassion, dignity and respect. But we still have work to do. Continue to foster inclusive behavior within your formations, allow every teammate’s voice to be heard and communicate how diversity is what makes our team the greatest on earth.Over the long weekend, whether you serve locally or if you travel, take into account increased traffic, weather and other risk factors. Make sure your vehicle is in good working order; wear seatbelts and ensure all in your care do the same; obey posted speed limits and law; use hands-free devices; and avoid anything — such as alcohol, sleep deprivation or phone use — that impairs your driving ability.Although winter has been mild so far, January is often the coldest month of the year at Fort Leonard Wood. Prepare for weather-related emergencies like power outages, frozen water lines and hazardous road conditions. Adjust training as needed, take precautions when outdoors and know the symptoms and treatment for frostbite, hypothermia and other cold weather injuries. Follow local, state and federal regulations in addition to General Order No. 5 to protect yourself and our teammates as COVID-19 risk remains high.We are proud of the incredibly diverse and talented team here at Fort Leonard Wood!Victory starts here — victory through skill!