Memorial Day Commentary Published May 20, 2019 By Col. Todd Moore PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- Knights,As we commemorate Memorial Day this weekend with friends and family, I ask that you take time to remember and reflect on our brothers and sisters who have paid the ultimate price defending the freedoms we enjoy in this great nation. Their legacies cement the importance of wearing our nation’s cloth with dignity and respect.Memorial Day weekend is also considered the unofficial kickoff to summer, bringing new safety risks as temperatures rise. People spend more time outdoors when the weather is nice and off-duty mishaps remain a top concern for maintaining individual readiness. Whether you are hiking, biking, barbequing, rock climbing, water sports, or just enjoying time in the sun, it is important to remain vigilant and consider the many safety hazards wherever your adventures may take you.I ask you to be mindful of the 5 D’s: dumb, difficult, different, distracted, or drunk. Make a plan in advance for whatever you choose to do…and have a backup plan in case the first one falls through. Know who your wingman is. Use all of your personal protective equipment and seatbelts whenever you are operating a motor vehicle or motorcycle, and only drive when sober and rested.Have a GREAT, SAFE holiday weekend and be ready to return to work disciplined, aggressive and creative…like you always do. We need you well and focused on our mission and each other.It’s an honor to serve with you. Strength and Preparedness!Vr,Col MooreTODD R. MOORE, Colonel, USAFCommander, 21st Space Wing