VIEW FROM TOP>>An ounce of prevention

By Chief Master Sgt. Anthony Brinkley
19th Airlift Wing command chief

Many of us have heard the term “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” Lately, I have really been reflecting on how much work, pain, frustration and aggravation we endure when we don’t apply this adage.

An ounce of prevention when going out, such as having a good plan to execute, can save much damage to one’s life and livelihood when drinking. I can’t tell you how many people express remorse when they have been in my office when I was a first sergeant after a DUI. They clearly knew the simple steps that could have been taken to ensure safety of those around them as well as preventing the loss of career and finances.

An ounce of prevention can lead to better quality of life. Yet many people don’t apply this principle. The ill effects of smoking or carrying excess weight can lead to a poor quality of life down the road. I can reflect on family members who battled through tough times due to not practicing proper health considerations. If you are fortunate enough to have good health, it’s important to do all you can to maintain it through proper diet and exercise.

In our professions we can save time and efforts by following established procedures. When we violate safety or checklist discipline we all end up stopping our work because we have injured someone or compromised a mission. Yet, if we approach our daily tasks with attention to detail, we will not have to repeat the same task twice.

In our families showing you care and clearly communicating can limit the amount of stress you endure due to misunderstandings. At the end of the day I truly believe if we take the daily dose of an ounce of prevention that we will all lead better and more prosperous lives.

Combat Airlift!