Troop Talk

Two federal holidays in November are almost upon us. The Veterans and Thanksgiving Day holidays are each followed with training holidays occurring Monday, Nov. 13 and Friday, Nov. 24. Both holidays are celebrated with four-day weekends and are great opportunities for gathering with family and friends.

Veterans Day is a solemn time to remember our brave men and women who served this great nation with honor, dedication, and in many instances paying the ultimate sacrifice with their lives. Remember these great warriors on Nov. 11 with your prayers.

Thanksgiving Day is a joyful time when our grateful country remembers and celebrates its heritage. While it is a time of joy and renewed contact with family and friends, it is also a time when a the lack of attention, especially when driving, can turn the festive occurrence into one of tragedy and loss.

Prior to personnel departing on leave or pass, discuss trip planning and driving hazards such as vehicle deficiencies, road conditions, adverse weather, and fatigue. Emphasize that the use of seat belts is “mandatory” on and off the installation. Remind your personnel that four Fort Bliss Soldiers involved in fatal POV accidents this year may have survived if they had used their seat belts. The enclosed POV safety briefing information will assist first-line leaders in preparing and conducting their pre-holiday safety briefings for their subordinates. CDs of the briefing materials are available at the Installation Safety Office.

To avoid accidents during these high-risk periods, units’ chain of command must be fully engaged in applying the same composite risk management standards and techniques used for training missions. Leaders must establish high standards of conduct for their subordinates on and off duty. I encourage everyone to take the time out to enjoy these holidays and keep safety foremost in all of your activities.

First to fire!

Brig. Gen. Robert P. Lennox
Fort Bliss Commanding General