Independence day is every day

Combat Edge, July-August, 2007 by Scott Eck

The 4th of July.

The very image evokes visions of fireworks, barbeques and people all over the country celebrating the freedoms that make this country great. I know what you are thinking. You think you're about to scan this article and see some safety tips for the 4th of July, right? Or maybe this article is about the same old things you have seen and heard over and again during your whole Air Force career; then again, maybe not.

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This year, we would like for you to celebrate a different kind of independence. We would like you to declare your INDEPENDENCE from:

--The hurt and emotional pain caused by the tragic loss of a loved one due to drinking and driving, be it either a 4-wheel or 2-wheel private motor vehicle.

--The injuries suffered from not wearing a seat belt or personal protective equipment when riding a motorcycle.

--The medical expenses and suffering caused by burns while lighting the grill or an E. coli infection arising from undercooked food at a family BBQ.

--Being blinded or maimed by a careless or unforeseen fireworks accident.

--An injury that resulted in a partial or total disability discharge and the pain of having to spend the rest of your life in a wheelchair because you dove headfirst into unfamiliar water and injured yourself.

--Being surrounded by EMTs who are trying to breathe air back into your cold, lifeless body after rescuers have pulled you out of the ocean's riptides.

--Poor decision making caused by a lack of poor risk management skills.

We know to some, this is a frank and candid message. It is meant to get your attention. We hope it does. If it saves just one member of our Air Force from unnecessary tragedy, then it has served a valuable purpose ... and gives you the independence from mishaps that you deserve.

by Mr. Scott Eck, Barksdale AFB, La.