MARINE CORPS BASE QUANTICO -- 20 January 2014 marks the 28th National observance of the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. which was signed into law by President Ronald Reagan in 1983 with the first observance coming on January 20, 1986. Dr. King was born on 15 January 1929 and his birthday is observed to honor the countless contributions he made to the American Civil Rights Movement, which continues to have profound impacts and serve as a source of inspiration to others.
Whatever your plans may be for the holiday, safety must be at the forefront, and we all must work together to prevent on- and off- duty accidents. Let’s start the New Year right by keeping safety at the forefront of our decision making process whether at work, home or on the road.
I expect all Commanders, Directors, Commissioned and Noncommissioned Officers and first line supervisors to conduct thorough pre-holiday safety briefings with their personnel prior to the holiday weekend. Our achievable goal is no accidents, no serious injuries or incidents, no acts of misconduct, and no loss of life over the holiday period. Everyone should be trained in the benefits of risk management, be sure to consider the risks you may take.
Have a great weekend, be safe and stay Semper Fidelis.
Sincerely,
DAVID W. MAXWELL
Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps Commander, Marine Corps Base Quantico