Take the time for summer vacation

  • Published
  • By Col. Darren James
  • 71st Flying Training Wing commander
VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. --  Many of you are planning vacations this summer, and I highly encourage you to take the full amount of leave you are authorized each year. You definitely work hard and deserve the time off.

For many reasons, summer vacations present special risks to you and your family. You may be traveling to unfamiliar areas, spending time in locations where tourists are targeted by criminals, engaging in higher risk activities, or perhaps, driving long distances. Regardless of where you choose to vacation and how you choose to get there, I want you to plan well, be prepared, and know the risks.

I offer you a few safe vacation planning tips:

1. ALL TRAVELERS: There are numerous commercial travel websites that can provide you with safe travel and vacation tips (for example: fodors.com, lonelyplanet.com, frommers.com, etc.). Spend time reviewing information available for your destination. For medical care options while traveling, please see Tricare's traveler information and "Before You Travel" checklist at: http://www.tricare.mil/GettingCare/Traveling.aspx?sc_database=web. If you are driving long distances, check your car's tires and fluids, carry an emergency kit, plan breaks, and do not drive tired.

2. OVERSEAS: If you are planning a vacation abroad, visit the DoD Foreign Clearance Guide, since many countries have requirements and restrictions that may apply to you while on leave: https://www.fcg.pentagon.mil/fcg.cfm. Please also check out the US State Department International Travel page for planning tips, travel checklist, and traveler alerts. You can sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) so that you will receive automatic traveler updates and warnings: http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/english/go.html

3. MEXICO: If you are planning a trip to Mexico, including cruises that have ports in Mexico, please review my Mexico travel policy. Not all areas in Mexico are open to you at the moment, and any unofficial travel there requires approval from your chain of command.

4. UNDER 26: If you are under 26, complete an AETC Form 29B before traveling and discuss your plans with your supervisor.

If you are planning to travel this summer, I hope you enjoy a safe vacation - Double Checks, Not Second Thoughts!

Col. J