2007 USAFE Holiday Safety Message Published Dec. 19, 2007 By Maj. Gen. Marc E. Rogers USAFE vice commander RAMSTEIN AIR BASE, Germany -- What a wonderful opportunity the holiday season brings. It allows us to get together with friends and family in a festive atmosphere! These celebrations often involve plenty of food, fun, and good spirit. While we enjoy the company of those close to us, let's make a concerted effort to have a safe and enjoyable holiday season in USAFE. Last year, we lost two Airmen during the extended holiday period from Thanksgiving to New Year's Day and we do not want to repeat that experience this year. I implore each individual to uphold their obligation to families, wingmen, and co-workers to make sound choices during this holiday season. Leadership by example, at every level, is critical in preventing fatal mishaps. Leaders and supervisors, invest your time and effort in our most valuable resource by personally engaging your active duty, ARC, and civilian Airmen. Our Airmen deserve better than cookie-cutter safety briefings. Discuss specific travel plans, fire safety issues, eating in moderation and the benefits of physical fitness activities. Remember to reach out to your deployed warriors and their family members. In short, identify your "at risk" population and prepare them for success. Although leadership is a key component to a safe holiday season, individuals must take personal responsibility for safety by mitigating the risk involved with their activities and situations. Act to stay alive! Avoid driving under the influence of alcohol as well as fatigue. Operate your vehicle within legal and personal limits, while adhering to changing traffic and weather conditions. Make wise decisions a key element in all your plans. Ask yourself what can go wrong and what you can do to prevent it. Honest answers to these simple questions can prevent mishaps and provide a memorable, enjoyable holiday season with family and friends. Be merry and, above all, be safe!