WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON)(SS/SW) Rick D. West released the following Independence Day message to the fleet June 30:
"Shipmates and Navy Families,
As we celebrate our great nation's 234th birthday, I hope that we all take time to reflect on the meaning of our independence and the sacrifices of those who have gone before us and those who continue to serve our nation.
Each and every one of you has a role in preserving the ideals the United States was founded upon. You are all patriots in defense of liberty and protectors of our independence, and I'm so very proud of you and your families for your dedication to our nation and our great Navy.
As you celebrate the Fourth of July, please keep in mind that many of our Sailors are deployed and can't be with their loved ones, but they do so in order that our fellow Americans can spend it with theirs. Currently, we have more than half of our ships and submarines underway, including five carriers and six large-deck amphibious ships, and more than 10,000 individual augmentees deployed 'boots on ground' around the world in support of overseas contingency operations.
Another item I would like for all of you to keep in mind, especially during this holiday, is safety. We must look out for our shipmates, families and friends as we take to the highways, waterways and our backyards. The Navy was successful during Memorial Day with zero fatalities, so I challenge you to keep our success rate. Use caution and practice ORM (operational risk management) when driving, participating in water activities or just conducting everyday activities. As you know many personnel will be out and about, and if you decide to drink, don't drive and have a plan to get home. Shipmates, stay safe and enjoy your much-deserved time off with your family and friends.
I'm honored to serve among you, and I'm thankful for all that you do in defense of our nation and our Navy.
Stay focused, stay alert and stay safe; happy Independence Day,
HOOYAH!"
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