Risk Management Magazine

The rider stopped his motorcycle to render honors to the flag in front of 1st Armored Division Headquarters. The military police had halted all traffic, as the flag was to be lowered in just a few seconds. Then, the unthinkable happened — an inattentive driver plowed into the rider at 40 mph.

Celebrating decision-making sounds about as exciting as celebrating the move from fifth grade to middle school. But decision-making is the key for a successful day that involves multiple search-and-rescue missions flown in the high country of Colorado.

Failing to use the principles of risk management can lead to a tough lesson learned. It doesn’t matter where or how a loss occurs, the result is the same — decreased combat power or mission effectiveness.