Labor Day Safety Message from the Surgeon General

By Lt. Gen. Patricia D. HorohoAugust 29, 2012

LTG Patricia Horoho
(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

Labor Day is dedicated to recognizing and honoring our Nation's workforce; it also marks the traditional end of the summer season. CSM Brock and I salute the MEDCOM workforce for your dedicated service to our Nation. Your service continues to strengthen the health and readiness of our AMEDD and Army Family.

As we enter the last month of this fiscal year, unsafe motorcycle and privately- owned vehicle operation is the leading cause of accidental fatalities both Army and MEDCOM-wide. Your personal leadership and engagement are vital in protecting the "at risk" population. Use all available resources to increase safety awareness and educate our Soldiers and Civilians on the application of risk management in their off-duty activities.

Leaders with personnel traveling over the holiday must ensure the Army's Travel Management System (TRiPS) is used. First-line leaders must meet with their subordinates to discuss the results of their TRiPS/Information Planning System assessment.

The US Army Combat Readiness/Safety Center provides an extensive collection of tools, resources, and safety tips to assist leaders, Soldiers, Civilians and Families with valuable risk mitigation information to better prepare for off-duty and recreational activities. Go to https://safety.army.mil and click on the Take-5 logo to access these products and bolster your summer safety program.

I encourage Soldiers, Civilians and Family Members to fully enjoy this historic holiday. I 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 Labor Day weekend. Army Safe is Army Strong.

Serving to Heal…Honored to Serve!