1. SER 003/10 JULY 2010
SPECIAL EDITION TRAGIC HOLIDAY STORIES
Leaders, the intent of this edition is to provide immediate attention to severe mishaps
in our Navy
This past 4th of July weekend produced two tragedies
for our Navy and Marine Corps team. One incident
involved two Sailors suffering major injuries in a PMV
mishap and we lost three Marines to drowning in
Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. The following are summaries of
those events:
SAN DIEGO - According to Debbi Baker of the San Diego
Union-Tribune, two Sailors in a Mustang were apparently
racing when the driver made an abrupt lane change. He
lost control of the car, skidded into a metal guard
rail which crushed the driver’s side door and caused
the car to overturn. Both Sailors were ejected and both July 6, 2010 |
of the driver's legs were severed below the knee. This
account comes from California Highway Patrol Officer A high-speed crash on southbound I-5 to
Ken Jackman. The link to the story is provided for more eastbound SR94 has put two Sailors in
details. Talk to your Sailors and Marines about safe the hospital, leaving one without his legs.
driving and remind them that racing and speeding can be
very costly.
Police say the crash was the result of
street race along I-5. (Photo: 10News)
http://www.signonsandiego.com/photos/2010/jul/06/192021/
GUANTANAMO BAY, CUBA - According to two survivors, on the 4th of
July several Marines decided to go snorkeling at Cable Beach on
Guantanamo Bay. Two of the Marines entered the water to snorkel and
were immediately overtaken by the strong surf and undertow. A third
Marine tried to rescue the others but he was pulled into the surf
by a large wave, becoming a victim himself. Leaders, this was
another tragic and preventable mishap for our naval team. Talk to
your Sailors and Marines about the dangers of swimming in high surf
and strong undertow areas. Ensure they have a plan and use sound
judgment. As a naval service, we should lead the way when it comes
to water safety. Remind all of your Sailors and Marines that even
excellent swimmers can be overcome by a strong undertow. Basic
Risk management dictates swimming in areas with life guards and
rescue services on duty.
Lines of communication are open!
Email: dominick.torchia1@navy.mil
Become a FAN of Safety Center’s Facebook page. Phone: DSN 564-3520, EXT 7012
(O) 757-444-3520 EXT 7012
(C) 757-374-3317