AFMC Warriors:

The upcoming Labor Day weekend will close out the 2009 "Critical Safety Days of Summer" campaign. Unfortunately, we lost four of our civilian team members this summer in off-duty accidents. I implore all of you to remain vigilant over the long weekend and ask that we all do our utmost to make decisions that minimize risk to ourselves and others in all our activities.

On a lighter note, one activity that I would like to highlight is our 13th annual USAF Marathon in mid-September. Nearly 10,000 runners from across the country will travel to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base to participate in a 5K, 10K, half marathon or full marathon during this world-class event on the 18th and 19th of September. Additionally, we have Airmen around the world participating at their deployed locations. If you are not already training for one of this year's events, I encourage you to start now for next year. And if you aren't quite ready to tackle the half or full marathon, there is still time to register for the 5 or 10K, or for any of this year's events at www.usafmarathon.com.

Lastly, I need to stress that training safely as well as being aware of pedestrians while driving cannot be overemphasized. Last week, we lost one of our own in a tragic accident only 10 minutes from Wright-Patt and another of our workers was seriously injured at Hill Air Force Base. Both individuals were out jogging and were struck by cars. Although these two runners began their exercise routines the same as all the others, both ended tragically. Remain vigilant while running or driving, especially during periods of reduced visibility.

In closing, please enjoy the upcoming and well-deserved holiday weekend. Have fun, stay fit, and most importantly, stay safe. Thank you for what you do every day for Air Force Material Command and your nation.

Gen. Donald Hoffman

Commander