Risk Management Magazine

Everyone in the military has their own reasons for joining. I volunteered because I needed to support my growing family. I almost ended my life and Army career at age 19, however, when I — like so many Soldiers before and after me — rolled a HMMWV.

I am a pretty calm guy. I find that getting worked up about things only tends to make matters worse. That’s not to say I don’t enjoy getting other people riled up, particularly those who are being jerks. I eventually learned, however, that could be dangerous.

As an aviator, I am cautious around anyone who uses the word “easy.” Just because a mission appears to be simple does not mean it will turn out that way. It is our responsibility as pilots to conduct proper flight planning procedures and risk management to identify potential hazards in the mission before takeoff.