On November 11, 1918, the First World War ended, marking the anniversary of the armistice and the end of fighting on the Western Front. In 1938, Congress made Armistice Day an official national holiday, eventually renaming it Veterans Day in remembrance of all those who served – past and present. We encourage you to take the opportunity to thank and honor those who have served selflessly before us; working with veterans and their families across our communities; and teach others the importance of serving our veterans and Veterans Day.

The long weekend provides an additional opportunity to spend time with friends and family while enjoying the Missouri outdoors. To mitigate risks, leaders will emphasize safety and risk management practices and remain committed to their training. Each person in the formation will have contact information for the chain of command and available resources.

Discuss the importance of travel preparations and driver safety, including topics such as vehicle inspection; pack emergency supplies; obey all laws, including wearing seat belts and obeying speed limits; and prepared and focused driving. Decreased daylight and increased deer movement increase the risk of collision. Adjust speed in limited visibility to increase reaction time. Alcohol increases risk in all activities – don’t drive impaired or distracted.

Continue to emphasize hunting safety, including gun safety and on-station hunting requirements such as mandatory gun registration with DES prior to entry on post; required use of iSportsman; and know authorized and unauthorized hunting areas. Whether you hunt on or off post, discuss weapons and gun safety; safe storage of weapons; and the importance of communicating your hunting plans to a fellow warrior or loved one. If teammates use utility or off-road vehicles, discuss required equipment and safety practices. Additional hunting safety tips and laws can be found online at the Missouri Department of Conservation or at the Outdoor Adventure Center at Fort Leonard Wood.

We hope everyone has an enjoyable holiday weekend with family and friends and, most of all, celebrates the veterans in your life. We are very proud to serve with you!

Victory Starts Here – Victory Through Skill!

Be all you can be!