Martin Luther King, Jr. Day is January 17, 2022. As a student, Dr. King graduated high school at 15 years old and earned a doctorate at age 26. As a leader, he founded the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, named Time Magazine’s “Man of the Year,” and was the youngest recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize, at the time. As a man of principle, he challenged and changed the social awareness of America and dedicated his life to the fight for civil rights and social justice.
In January 1986, Mrs. Coretta Scott King oversaw the first legal holiday in honor of her late husband. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day is now celebrated by millions of people in more than 100 countries. In 1994, Congress designated Martin Luther King, Jr. Day as a national day of service. The theme of the day is, “A Day On, Not a Day Off” to encourage individuals to dedicate the day to community service. Even under the pandemic conditions, there are many virtual service opportunities. Check out your town and community websites and use this time to safely honor Dr. King’s legacy of compassion, justice, and equality for all.
Now that we are in the middle of winter, keep in mind the safety concerns the cold weather months bring. As COVID-19 continues within our communities, please also remember this is the season for colds and influenza as well. Please take the appropriate actions to stay safe and healthy. If you become sick, please stay home.
When planning for winter vehicular travel, pack an emergency kit with items such as warm clothing, ice scraper, flashlight, extra batteries, jumper cables, first aid kit, water, snacks, small tool kit, and road flares. Carbon monoxide poisoning risk is also more common in cold weather months due to the improper use of heaters. Never use an oven or stovetop to heat your home. Let’s all take the necessary steps to mitigate risks and stay safe.
This holiday is an occasion to remember Dr. King’s remarkable life, rededicate ourselves, and unite through his principles of unity and equality. We recognize the values of courage, truth, justice, compassion, dignity, respect, humility, and service he taught us through his actions. Have a happy, healthy, and safe holiday.
Army Safe is Army Strong!
People First! Winning Matters!
Winning Together Matters More!
DAVID C. TRYBULA
Brigadier General, USA
Commanding
20220114 Senior Commander's Safety Message MLK 2022 signed.pdf [PDF - 162.2 KB]
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