Risk Management Magazine

Professional courtesy can be defined as the courtesy given to senior-ranking officers or more experienced Soldiers. Unfortunately, it can also become a danger to a flight crew when inexperienced Soldiers are reluctant to announce hazards or lack the willingness to speak up and do what they know is right.

Most Army safety professionals did not seek out career paths to be business-minded salespeople. As unattractive as the role seems, this is a critical skill that must be adapted, learned and practiced. Safety within the Army does not happen without people. Organizations must develop acuity, grow partnerships and reduce barriers through reciprocal learning to increase success and drive initiatives.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the chance of a person being struck by lightning is less than one in a million. I’ve been struck twice — and I don’t feel very lucky.