LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. -- In the month of January, the 56th Fighter Wing experienced 21 documented vehicle accidents, ranging from minor fender benders to serious collisions. In addition,
many more were not reported to security forces.

On Feb. 1, two Thunderbolts experienced potentially fatal vehicle accidents; one involving a red-light runner who broad-sided an Air Force civilian and another accident
involving a six month-pregnant 56th FW Airman.

Also on Feb. 1, Air Education Training Command experienced a fatal vehicle mishap
involving a Sheppard Air Force Base, Texas, Airman traveling toTyndall AFB, Fla.

In the last two years, our 56th FW family has lost six active-duty and Air Force civilians due to vehicle mishaps.

Fellow Thunderbolts, we must all elevate our focus and attention to-detail when operating motor vehicles. I have decided to focus each driving experience as if
going through a construction site in a heavy rainstorm -- drive defensively and constantly look for every possible conflict 360 degrees around your vehicle.

I think the 56th FW has been extremely lucky over the past few months because our
vehicle accidents have not been serious, life changing experiences. Regarding
vehicle safety, let's change blind luck to "thorough preparation makes its own luck."

Luke has a driving program Arrive Alive at 25 for our younger Airmen. Let's all make
it a reality to arrive alive at 85.

Brig. Gen. Tom Jones, 56th FW commander, the fighter wing and the nation need you for the mission. In addition, your spouses, mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, sons,
daughters and future children need you for a wonderful life.