Memorial Day 2023.pdf [PDF - 118.1 KB]
FORT NOVOSEL, Ala. ─ Memorial Day, the last Monday in May, is a day to honor the men and women who have died in defense of our great nation. This duty of remembrance is one we accept willingly and gladly, and your continued service ensures their sacrifices will never be considered in vain. Thank you for what you do every day for our country and our Army.
While we encourage you to enjoy the long weekend ahead, please remember to play it safe in all you do; all who continue to serve are critical to maintaining the legacy of our predecessors. The arrival of summer brings with it many enjoyable activities, but those do not come without risk.
From here through the end of the fiscal year, risk management will be especially important in safely enjoying the critical days of summer. The most dangerous activity a Soldier participates in, both on and off duty, is operating or riding in a motor vehicle, so wearing seat belts and obeying speed limits are critical risk mitigation measures. Already this fiscal year, more Soldiers have died in PMV-2 and PMV-4 mishaps than in 2022. History shows we can expect a steady climb in off-duty accidents these next few months, but you can reverse that trend by applying the principles of risk management to your off-duty activities.
Leaders, stay engaged and know what your Soldiers’ plans entail; there is no way for you to know if you never ask. Soldiers, take ownership of your personal safety and make smart risk decisions while looking out for your buddies. Safety is pretty simple — make a plan and always do the right thing.
The U.S. Army Combat Readiness Center is ready to help! The 2023 Off Duty Safety Awareness Presentation was just released and addresses persistent hazards Soldiers face in their personal time. You may find it and many other risk management tools on our website at https://safety.army.mil.
We wish you and yours a safe, healthy, and enjoyable Memorial Day weekend and a safe summer in the upcoming months. Thank you again for your service to our nation.
People First - Winning Matters - Readiness Through Safety!
Gene Meredith
Brigadier General, USA
Commanding
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