Critical Days of Summer safety campaign begins

  • Published
  • By Kevin Gaddie
  • Team Eglin Public Affairs
EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  The 2011 Critical Days of Summer safety awareness campaign kicked off here May 18 at the enlisted hall, where base personnel were given a lively and humorous talk about the serious subject of safety.

Col. David Harris, Air Armament Center vice-commander, opened the event by encouraging everyone to get the most out of their tour of duty at Eglin, while understanding the mission is first and foremost.

"The mission requires each and every one of you to perform it," he said. "I need you all to be healthy and I need you all to be alive. That's why I'm ensuring we get the word out. As the summer weather comes and all the great activities it affords, make sure you have in the back of your mind the concepts and ideas you need to stay happy and healthy."

The stage was then turned over to Brad Montgomery, a motivational speaker from Denver, who kept the audience laughing throughout the brief while weaving card tricks, magic and even false buck teeth into his safety message.

"We know this is all about safety," he said. "We know this is about trying to keep you safe this summer for your friends, for your families, for your Air Force, for your wingmen. We're going to try to make it fun."

Mr. Montgomery emphasized that happiness, humor and an appreciation of life can play a part in making good decisions in ensuring safety.

"There are three things to remember," he said. "Find happy, pick happy and act happy. Happiness makes our day better. Happiness is a choice."

Mr. Montgomery said showing gratitude for the good things and people in one's life are two keys to finding happiness.

"I love the Air Force's 'wingman' concept," he said. "Everyone here has each others' backs, which is great, especially if someone isn't practicing good safety habits off-duty."

Montgomery said he appreciates the job the military does in serving the United States. He said that the same dedication and commitment can be applied to staying safe, on and off duty.

"Life is good," Mr. Montgomery said. "If we figure out ways to enjoy ourselves while we are working and while we are playing, then we're better, we're happier and we're safer."