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Marine Corps Base Quantico Independence Day guidance, safety message

26 Jun 2013 | Col. David W. Maxwell Marine Corps Base Quantico

    On 4 July 2013 we commemorate the 237th anniversary of our Declaration of Independence.  On 2 July, the Continental Congress voted in favor of independence, and two days later its delegates adopted the Declaration of Independence, a document drafted by Thomas Jefferson.  Although the 4th of July was declared a federal holiday in 1941, Americans have been celebrating our independence since the 18th century.

 

    We will start the holiday on Wednesday 3 July at 1630 and the liberty period will end on Monday 8 July at 0730.  We should take this time to celebrate and at the same time reflect on how fortunate we are to belong to and serve this great nation. 

 

    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.  According to the United States census 2.5 million people lived in the newly independent nation 237 years ago, now we share this nation with 316.2 million people.  Part of that population will be driving north and south on 95, making it a very congested and dangerous highway.  I ask for everybody to be vigilant and to pay attention to your surroundings to prevent any mishaps.  Keep in mind that we are in the middle of the summer and we should take in consideration the weather in our holiday plans.

 

    I expect leaders at all levels 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