This post is republished from the Army Surgeon General's blog.

Labor Day is dedicated to the achievements of American workers and the contributions they make to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country. Labor Day weekend also marks the end of the 101 Critical Days of summer; a period historically associated with increased mishaps. Over this Labor Day weekend take a well-deserved break and recharge. Bear in mind we must always exercise safety and continuously manage risk.

As we enter the remaining month of this fiscal year, MEDCOM's accidential fatalities are down significantly- yet we still lost three members of our MEDCOM family to preventable accidents. Unsafe operation of vehicles continues to be the leading cause of accidental fatalities both Army and MEDCOM-wide.

We must always remain vigilant and recognize that primary threats have not changed; failures to use safety equipment like seatbelts, driving while impaired or fatigued, speeding. I expect all of you to exercise the appropriate safety measures. Finally, if you decide to drink, I expect you to assign a designated driver.

My sincerest thanks to each and every one of you for the things you do day in and day out. I am proud to serve alonside every one of you. Be safe over the long weekend. Your hard work, dedication, and professionalism continue to make us "Army Safe and Army Strong." Enjoy a safe Labor Day weekend.

Army Medicine: Bringing Value...Inspiring Trust