Commander's message: Give thanks this Thanksgiving, stay safe doing so

Commander's message: Give thanks this Thanksgiving, stay safe doing so

Reported By MAJ J.LaFlash November 23, 2022

Ft. Stewart - For many, Thanksgiving Day marks the beginning of the holiday season. It is a time when Americans at home and abroad gather with friends and family to reflect upon the blessings of the past year with gratitude and look toward the future with hope and excitement. This year when we gather around the dinner table at Thanksgiving, we will reflect on the many things we are thankful for in this unit of ours. One thing I am very thankful for is that our men and women such as yourselves who have volunteered to serve our unit despite the sacrifices that service requires. You all make me very proud to lead such a group of individuals.

This Thanksgiving Day, I ask each of you to take a moment to remember our prior enlisted, retired and current Soldiers around the world. Every one of them added to our greatness as a unit, contributed their efforts and time to our unit, and continued to support our units mission and goals through their service with us. Every one of them made a difference to our unit. This holiday season, like all them prior will, be a hard time for many to go through. So always remember as the unit has been around for the last 19yrs, we will continue to be here for you this holiday season and your more then welcome to hop on teamspeak or discord have some fun. As we enter the last weekend of Operation Blue Giant and then rush into December for three weekends of fun prior to our Holiday Exodus which runs Dec 19th through January 2nd. During this time we will be hosting fun filled Fun ops, some pick up games of PVP or Antistasi. Simply put if anyone wants to put together a gaming day, do so! Lets make it a fun filled exodus. As I said above, for many, Thanksgiving marks the beginning of a joyous holiday season. For some, however, it can mark the beginning of a very stressful period where our teammates are feeling alone or facing hardship. I encourage leaders at all levels to remain engaged and to ensure that all of your Soldiers know that they are valued and can count on you regardless of our leave status.

On a note about Safety, Time for your safety briefing! For Soldiers, The next few days will be a of many TPRs. Consequently, many of you are making plans to visit family and friends or simply go sightseeing for the holiday weekend. If your plans involve driving, make sure your vehicle is prepared for the trip and you are rested and ready for the drive itself. Plan your drive and leave yourself plenty of time to reach your destination and return home safely. If you plan on being outside for an extended time, check the weather forecast -- carry rain gear or dress in layers for cold temperatures. Don't leave home without your vehicle winter survival kit tucked safely away in your car. In the event of an accident, breakdown or prolonged vehicle stall it may come in handy. Remember, inclement weather can change traffic and road conditions in seconds -- stay vigilant.

If you're staying home and inviting guests, don't place candles where they may be accidentally knocked over. Don't leave your Thanksgiving meal cooking unattended. If you're going to deep-fry your food, please follow the directions for preparing and cooking the food to avoid a mishap.

Do not actively encourage your guests to drink alcoholic beverages. Be a good host or hostess by offering non-alcoholic beverages and set the example by drinking responsibly. Above all, don't hesitate to take the keys from a guest who has had one too many. Have the phone number of the local taxi company available for guests you believe should not be driving. And reminder of the words of a Company First Sergeant " If you drink, don't drive. If you drive, don't drink, And if you drink, don't drink alone"

Leaders and supervisors should ensure every Soldier receives a safety briefing before they depart for the holiday. Because no one is immune from being involved in an accident, I encourage you to ensure your civilians family and friends also receive a safety briefing before they depart. Address the risks associated with their planned activities and ensure they have a plan to mitigate the risks and return safely.

Lastly, to the men and women of the 3rd Infantry Division Realism unit and all prior or retirement personnel, Command Staff and I wish you a safe and happy Thanksgiving Day. Enjoy your well deserved Holiday and return to us safely. We need you!

-War Eagle 6