Fort Riley is doing well in keeping COVID-19 numbers down and that's a testament to the effort of the residents on post. That was one message from Major General D.A. Sims this week. "I think you're taking the appropriate measures and have been now for awhile as we've seen those numbers decline."
Sims urged those who have not been vaccinated for the coronavirus to get their shots. "If we want to see these masks disappear more routinely the way to get to that is to vaccinate."
The commanding general of the 1st Infantry Division and Fort Riley did say that he's increased his concern associated with operational readiness." People who are not vaccinated, in some cases are letting their guard down. Although they may think that to themselves this won't impact anybody but themselves it now is placing the operational readiness of the unit in jeopardy."
Col. Will McKannay, Garrison Commander, said a few weeks ago the commanding general lifted some of the coronavirus restrictions and the majority of Fort Riley community members have cooperated well with off-post businesses. "I'd ask you to continue to follow Fort Riley and the Department of Defense guidelines no matter what you're doing no matter whether it be on or off post because it is all about as the commanding general mentioned about the readiness of our forces here and the safety and health of everyone."
The Fort Riley leaders spoke this week during a town hall session on post.