Safety briefings usher in New Year

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Jacob Corbin
  • 14th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs
COLUMBUS AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. . --  The 14th Flying Training Wing held safety briefings Jan. 5 as part of the Air Force's "January Challenge."

Topics at the briefings ranged from flying safety and regulations, to off-duty safety as well.

"Each and every member of the BLAZE Team came back safe and sound (from the holiday break)," said Col. Roger Watkins, 14th Flying Training Wing commander. "Thank you for exercising good judgement."

The emphasis of the briefings was on pilots being vigilant during their return to flying after a long break.

"It's going to take a couple of flights for you to get back to where you were (in proficiency)," said Col. David Reth, 14th Operations Group commander. "Do your best and the rest will take care of itself."

Colonel Watkins echoed Colonel Reth's sentiments.

"If you come prepared and know your procedures you will do your part to make sure our mission is completed safely," Colonel Watkins said.

After the BLAZE Team leadership spoke, Maj. John Lindell, 14th FTW Safety, gave the actual January Challenge brief.

The major covered a variety of safety topics, including operational risk management, on and off-duty safety.

"If you see anything that looks, dumb, different or dangerous - speak up," the major challenged.