9/16/2011 - WASHINGTON (AFNS) -- I send greetings to all those celebrating the 64th birthday of the United States Air Force.
As president, I have no greater honor than serving as commander in chief of the greatest force for peace and security the world has ever known. Performing their duties with impeccable gallantry and excellence, members of the United States Air Force embody the highest ideals of our nation.
Since America's earliest forays into flight, brave patriots have answered the call to defend our way of life from the skies above. Serving in times of war and peace, these guardians of freedom and justice have kept our people safe and strengthened our security at home. Our Airmen have also exemplified our spirit of compassion abroad, from bringing hope to a divided Berlin to aiding a recently devastated Japan.
Today, we pay special tribute to the 9/11 Generation -- the more than 5 million Americans who have worn the uniform over the past 10 years. These service members have contributed immeasurably to the excellence and professionalism of the United States Air Force. Tour after tour, they have borne the extraordinary burden of a decade of war. They have written their own remarkable chapter in the narrative of America's armed forces and earned a place among our greatest generations. It is with unending gratitude that we pledge to serve them and their families as well as they serve us.
On behalf of a grateful nation, I thank you for your service. May God bless and protect you and your families, and may God bless the United States of America.
