1.
As
you know, our safety record during 2002 was very disappointing, especially in
flying safety. We damaged or destroyed
several of our aircraft, and more importantly, we lost the lives of several
dedicated volunteers so dear to us. Our
hearts and prayers go out to their families.
2.
For
many years prior to this year, CAP had the reputation of having the best flying
safety record in general aviation.
Along with increasing aircraft mishaps, our bodily injuries and serious
bodily injuries are on the rise, especially in the cadet ranks. We must have laser-like focus on mishap
prevention if we are to turn these trends around and regain the trust and
confidence of our cadet’s parents and the many customers that partner with CAP
in our missions for America.
3.
As
I ponder our safety problems, I reflect on the core values of CAP: Integrity, Volunteerism, Excellence, and
Respect. These values serve as the
bedrock of all that we stand for.
Without safety, these values mean nothing. If we do not have a strong safety program, it means; (1) that we
lack integrity
in self-policing our members and all of our CAP operations and activities; (2)
that our humanitarian efforts through volunteerism cannot be achieved; (3)
that we have failed in our quest for excellence in service to America;
and, (4) that we lack respect for the safety and welfare
of our members and those we serve. So,
in essence, for our core values to be fully realized, safety must be the wind
beneath our wings.
4. In order to reverse these negative trends in our safety record, we
must institute an organizational culture change that brings safety to the
forefront of our minds. To do so
requires the institution of a safety goal for CAP and a serious commitment
by every CAP member to attain that goal.
We must optimize the safety and welfare of our members in all CAP
activities, protect CAP resources and regain the stature of our organization as
being the safest flying organization in general aviation.
Safety Pledge
I am proposing a 2003 Safety Pledge For All CAP
Flying And Ground Activities. I propose
the following pledge and ask you to spread it constantly throughout our great
organization. I would like the pledge
to become an integral part of the start of every CAP gathering ranging from
unit meetings all the way to the National Board and Annual Conference. These meetings often begin with a recital of
the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag as a reminder of our patriotism. I would like the Pledge of Allegiance to be
followed by a recital of the CAP 2003 Safety Pledge.
The
2003 Safety Pledge For All CAP Flying And Ground Activities:
I
pledge to do my part to foster a safe environment during all CAP
activities, to be a responsible steward of CAP resources and to fully
prepare myself for the challenging missions that serve America.
Thank you all for your great service to CAP and the
nation. I look forward to reciting this
pledge with you.
RICHARD
L. BOWLING
Major
General, CAP
Commander