Thanksgiving Day Safety Message (Sharp Point # 26-10)

  • Published
  • By Gen. Walter Sharp
  • United Nations Command, Combined Forces Command and U.S. Forces Korea commander
YONGSAN GARRISON, Republic of Korea --  1. On the 25th of November we celebrate Thanksgiving as a special time when America pauses to reflect on its beginnings as a nation and to give thanks for the many blessings we enjoy. Over this past year each of you has worked very hard to help USFK maintain peace and stability across Northeast Asia and I want to thank you for your hard work, selfless service and sacrifice.

2. Thanksgiving also marks the beginning of the holiday season and a time when our Service members, Civilian employees, and family members have an opportunity to take some time off to rest and relax. While the holidays are a time for celebration, they are also a time of increased risk, particularly on the highways. The potential for injuries and needless loss of life increases significantly during holiday periods.

3. I ask each of you to evaluate the risk involved with your holiday activities, especially those involving alcohol. Be responsible, don't drink and drive and remember that the abuse of alcohol often results in high risk behavior and misconduct. I need each of you to return safely from your holiday activities.

4. Involved and engaged leaders make a tremendous difference in how people respond to the call for responsible behavior. I ask leaders to conduct individual counseling with their subordinates on safe and responsible behavior and ways to decrease risks and avoid accidents.

5. Ensure your personnel avoid off limits areas, political gatherings or demonstrations and commit to using the buddy system. With winter approaching, it is imperative that we exercise greater caution as daylight hours diminish and temperatures get colder.

6. My goal is for everyone to celebrate and enjoy the holiday without loss of life, serious injury, or alcohol related offenses. I want your help to make these goals a reality.

7. As you celebrate Thanksgiving with family, friends and loved ones stay safe and enjoy some well deserved time off.