CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. –
Team Charleston, the long hot days of summer continue, and we continue to enjoy them.
Pool parties with friends, beach time with the kids and cookouts with the family are just a few of the ways we spend our time. What would summer be without these fun activities? As you enjoy your good times this summer, make it a point to play safe. If we are not careful, harmless activities can quickly turn into harmful activities.
Although Team Charleston has been fortunate not to have had any fatalities during these 101 Critical Days of Summer, we have not gone without several accidents. One of our most recent accidents involved an active-duty member on a motorcycle without a helmet; this was a seasoned rider with years of experience.
Sometimes our knowledge and skill can create a confidence level that causes us to take ill-advised risks. Our safety and the safety of those closest to us are at stake. Recognizing the unsafe situation isn't the problem; the problem is choosing to respond in a safe manner.
Although there are only 26 days left until the end of the 101 Critical Days of Summer, that does not mean we should stop thinking safe, working safe and playing safe. Let's end this summer with the fun factor high and the accidents nonexistent. That means remaining vigilant not only when we are performing our Air Force duty, but also when we are at home with our friends and family.
We must make safety a second nature activity that is integrated into every aspect of our lives. So if you are planning to take up a new sport or activity, invest in a few lessons from a professional so you can play safe. If you plan to drink, drink responsibly. It's better to play safe than it is to be the latest safety incident briefed at the mission update.
When it comes to safety, having a good Wingman close is an important factor. The Wingman is not a concept that just applies when we are at work; it also applies when we are at play. At work, we have the constant reminder of supervisors, Air Force instructions and the like. At play, our Wingman and our common sense are our only guides. A good Wingman always insists that we wear the proper safety gear, even if it is not the most fashionable thing to do.
Finally, I would like to extend my congratulations to this month's Diamond Sharp winners. This award is given to individuals who display outstanding performance when they are unaware that someone is watching. This type of behavior speaks volumes on behalf of the character of the recipient.
This month we acknowledged two Team Charleston warriors: Staff Sgt. Michael Ruiz, 437th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, and Airman 1st Class Brent Hillard, 437th Aerial Port Squadron. You both are a true example of our Air Force Core Values: integrity first, service before self and excellence in all we do. Thanks for giving your best, even when no one is watching.
Team Charleston - Take the Fight to the Enemy!