Back to Basics - Leadership at All Levels

Published May 27, 2010
By Laura McAndrews
Air Mobility Command Public Affairs

SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill -- With the Critical Days of Summer right around the corner Air Mobility Command senior leaders are asking Airmen to be safe and cautious.

Every year between Memorial Day and Labor Day, the Air Force sees a rise accidents and fatalities of its Airmen and their families. This year's theme is, "Back to Basics - Leadership at All Levels" because of the roles we as Airmen, commanders and supervisors as wingmen play in helping each other help AMC reach its goal of zero fatalities during this year's Critical Days of Summer.

"I need your help to eliminate the tragic consequences of preventable mishaps," said AMC Commander Gen. Raymond E. Johns Jr.

Last summer the Air Force lost 22 Airmen and AMC accounted for three of those fatalities.

"What makes these particular tragedies especially difficult is the fact they were all preventable," said Chief Master Sgt. David Spector, AMC's Command Chief. "No one wants to repeat these mistakes."

All three of the fatalities were single vehicle accidents which involved excessive speed, and two of the accidents involved alcohol.

Generally speaking, motor vehicle accidents are the main cause of death and injury among our Airmen during the summer months, accounting for more than 80 percent. Many of these accidents involve excessive speed, loss of control, alcohol and a lack of seatbelt use.

Mishaps related to sports and recreation, specifically water sports, are the second leading cause of death in America during the summer. Primary factors contributing to these deaths are fatigue and alcohol.

"Use personal flotation devices when appropriate, or ensure you have the proper safety equipment depending on your activity, from mountain biking to rafting," said AMC Ground Safety Division Chief, Mr. Mark Erpelding. "No matter what you do, take a moment to ensure you're doing all you can to minimize any chance of injury."

AMC has created several programs to help keep Airmen safe, including "Alive at 25," the "AMC Sport Bike Safety Course," and the "Airmen-to-Airmen Program," which specifically focuses on the 18-26 age group.

"This program [Airmen-to-Airmen] is designed to help our Airmen share their safety mishap experiences so others don't make the same mistakes," said Chief Spector.

Another important tool in the AMC safety arsenal is Operational Risk Management.

"ORM is really nothing more than taking the time to think through the possible consequences of our actions before we do it," said AMC Director of Safety, Col. Donald Halpin. For example, it's not necessary to wear steal toed boots to mow, the lawn but flip-flops may not be the best idea. Or, while it's impossible to never drive at night, starting a long road trip at 10 p.m. after working all day may be a risky decision.

"So, whether it's taking a moment to evaluate road conditions before you set out, or designating someone to drive if you know you're going to have a drink, ORM is a way to set the conditions for minimizing risk," said Colonel Halpin. "Use it to make smart, safe decisions."

"Our command is performing a dynamic mission through your selfless devotion to duty and the tremendous support of you families," said the general. "Your selfless spirit and willingness to drop everything at a moment's notice to go halfway around the world is nothing short of extraordinary."