Camp Arifjan, Kuwait –
The 1st Theater Sustainment Command's Operational Command Post conducted a nontactical vehicle safety training event at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait, April 26, 2019.
The training discussed ways to be a defensive driver, the responsibilities of the assistant driver, and best practices while in the host country to keep everyone safe and ensure their safe return back to the base.
"A lot of people feel they should drive like the host nation but that's not the answer. When you're on the road here, you need to be aware of the drivers around you at all times. Drive defensively so that everyone comes back the way they left," said Mr. Minnick Eargle, 1st Theater Sutainment Command safety director.
The training also included video footage of driving in the city, accidents that have been recorded, as well as eye-opening accident statistics.
"This training was a part of General Walker's intent. Safety trainings are to occur quarterly," said Chief Warrant Officer 4 David Hardigree, 184th Sustainment Command safety specialist.
Drivers that are new to Kuwait often are unfamiliar with the local ways of the roads, which are similar to conditions in a major city.
"We don't want Soldier fatalities. We want to be proactive with safety awareness so that we're not playing catch up. We want everyone to arrive safely," said Eargle.
The next safety awareness training for the unit will occur in June.