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Air Force leaders issue Sept. 11 message
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  MICHAEL B. DONLEY
 CHIEF MASTER SERGEANT OF THE AIR FORCE JAMES A. ROY
 GENERAL NORTON A. SCHWARTZ
Air Force leaders issue Sept. 11 message

Posted 9/6/2011 Email story   Print story

    

9/6/2011 - WASHINGTON (AFNS)  -- Secretary of the Air Force Michael Donley, Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Norton Schwartz and Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force James Roy issued the following message to the Airmen of the U.S. Air Force:

September 11, 2011, marks the tenth anniversary of the terrorist attacks that claimed the lives of nearly 3,000 innocent people -- at the World Trade Center; at Shanksville, Pa.; and at the Pentagon -- and affected the lives of countless others across our great country and beyond. In all, 90 countries lost citizens, and people the world over would condemn these acts of terrorism.

This tragic event altered our view of the world and sparked a global effort to combat terrorism and the conditions that give rise to extremism. We are proud of the international efforts that have led to the capture or killing of many of the terrorist leaders, but our success has not come without significant cost. As we reflect on the horrific day that marked the beginning of our struggle to better secure the world from these threats, we honor the tremendous selfless service that today still distinguishes American Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen, comprising the most dedicated, professional and powerful military force in the world. We also recognize that the need for sacrifice is not over.

We sincerely thank you and your families for what you have done for your country to date, and thank you in advance for bravely facing our future challenges. Please take a moment this day to reflect on the tragic losses of September 11, 2001, as well as the losses and wounds that we have suffered in our campaign to maintain security for our Nation since that fateful day. Today, we also remember the families and friends of the lost and wounded, who bear the heaviest burden, whose loneliness we seek to ease, and whose sacrifice we hold in the highest regard.



tabComments
9/11/2011 8:40:59 PM ET
I think about those that have sacrificed their lives for our American republic all the time. I'm surrounded by emblems of our freedom from something as tangible as my retirement U.S. flag to the simple unseen freedom of being able to go about my business without question as long as I'm not harming others. Many countries on Earth don't afford their people such a right. We should constantly think of those that have sacrificed their lives. Don't wait for an anniversary.
Marie Shipley, Idaho
 
9/10/2011 10:49:10 PM ET
My Husband was activated due to the events of 10 years ago. I also had my son son-in-law and nephew serving our Country proudly. All 3 of the boys have been deployed to the war zones multiple times all 3 are serving to this day. God Bless all who serve and the families who wait at home jumping every time the phone rings or whenever there is a knock on the door. God Bless America.
Rita Anne M., South Jersey USA
 
9/10/2011 10:42:39 PM ET
10 years ago our son decided that he would do whatever it took to defend his country. He was 10. 2 years ago he did just that and swore in to the USAF at the age of 18. We stand proud with him and his fellow Airmen and all the young men and women who on 911 made that commitment in their hearts....that no matter what....they would never let this happen to us again May GOD bless our USAF our military and all those who choose service before self. 911 Never Forget. God Bless America. Our son AC1 Ronald Antos is now stationed at Lakenheath RAF.
Jackie Antos, Crest Hill IL
 
9/9/2011 11:01:17 AM ET
I love the Air Force and I love the United States.
BEEK, Beavercreek Ohio
 
9/6/2011 8:04:33 PM ET
We will never forget. We will never surrender. God bless the United States of America, her service members and her citizens. May those who fight continue to be strong and may the rest of the nation understand and appreciate the sacrifices made by so few. Thank you for those that support us, shame on the ones that do not.
Patriot, USA
 
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