Secretary of the Air Force Michael B. Donley, Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Norton Schwartz and Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force James Roy send the Air Force family holiday greetings and remind all to remember those who are apart from family and friends. (Air Force illustration/Billy Smallwood)
by Janie W. Santos
Defense Media Activity-San Antonio
12/16/2009 - SAN ANTONIO (AFNS) -- The Air Force's top leaders send the Air Force family holiday greetings and remind all to remember those Airmen in harm's way apart from family and friends.
Secretary of the Air Force Michael B. Donley, Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Norton Schwartz and Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force James Roy send the following:
"During this holiday season, please take the opportunity to reflect on our blessings as Americans, and to remember the many people who enrich our lives. As we celebrate these holidays with more than 36,000 Airmen-as well as our joint partners-engaged in combat operations across the globe, we are thankful for the men and women who have answered our nation's call in a time of war, and who selflessly serve to ensure our freedom.
To our deployed Airmen, your commitment to the defense of America and her ideals, and your family's quiet sacrifice that sustains your service, are worthy of our deep and enduring respect. Know that millions of Americans are truly thankful for your courage and sacrifice, and pray for your well-being and safe return to your families.
For those of us with the good fortune to celebrate at home with family and friends, please remember our fellow Airmen in harm's way and the family members who miss them. Especially during this Year of the Air Force Family, we ask that you reach out to these families as well as our single Airmen, and welcome them into your holiday celebrations, in the spirit of giving and support that makes our greater Air Force family so special.
Finally, we ask that you consider safety during all of your holiday activities. Take extra time to ensure your travel plans don't put you or your loved ones at risk. Each year we lose Airmen to preventable accidents, so we ask you to redouble your efforts to think about safety--for you, your families and your wingmen.
In all of the joyous ways that this holiday season is celebrated, we wish you and yours the very best--during this special time, and throughout the New Year."
