Triad Corner: CAPT Rafael Facundo

Team Souda,

May brings many reasons to celebrate: May Day, Greek Orthodox Easter, Star Wars Day (May the Fourth be with you), Cinco de Mayo, and Mother’s Day (May 9, don’t forget to call your Mother!).

There are two other days In May that I want to talk about here — May 15, when Greece is scheduled to open for tourists, and May 31, Memorial Day.

If everything goes as planned, Greece will officially open to tourists May 15. We expect to be able to move freely around the island for the first time in 6 months. This new-found freedom allows us to travel, spend time with friends, go to restaurants, hang out at the beach — all the things we anticipated doing on a tour in Greece. It also brings a responsibility to keep ourselves and the rest of Team Souda safe.

You’re going to want to cut loose — get out there and ENJOY! I want you to have fun and explore all the good things Crete has to offer. I also expect you to be smart. Always have a designated driver, or take a taxi home. Obey the speed limit and other traffic laws. Use the buddy system — don’t go swimming, hiking, or to nightclubs alone. Bottom line: Don’t put yourself in a situation where you’ll be watching everyone else enjoy liberty. And remember, whether you are vaccinated or not, social distancing measures are still in place.

The PAO team will continue to provide updates via All-hands emails and on the official NSA Souda Bay Facebook page.

At the end of the month, on Monday, May 31, we will observe Memorial Day, a day to remember those who sacrificed and died in our nation's service, while fighting for and defending our right to freedom. These are our brothers and sisters in arms, all taken too early, all giving the most precious thing they had to give — their lives. Let us honor and remember our fallen friends and teammates, and their families who bear the pain of their loss, in ways worthy of their sacrifice.

May is going to be a busy month. Keep your head in the game, watch out for each other, and stay safe.