Leaders issue Memorial Day message

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SAN ANTONIO (AFNS) --  The Air Force's top leaders remember those who have been killed, wounded or permanently disabled in a Memorial Day message today . 

Secretary of the Air Force Michael Donley and Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Norton Schwartz issued the following message:

"Never in the field of human conflict was so much owed by so many to so few." These famous words were uttered by British Prime Minister Winston Churchill on Aug. 20, 1940, to the House of Commons during the height of the Battle of Britain. He was referring to the daring British airmen whose courageous actions against overwhelming odds dealt the seemingly invincible Nazi war machine its first defeat.

"Americans owe a similar debt of gratitude to the over one million Soldiers, Sailors, Coast Guardsmen, Marines and Airmen who have made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of freedom since this nation's inception. The Air Force and its joint teammates have been continuously deployed for over 18 years, and many of us have gone in harm's way. Some of our courageous comrades were killed, others wounded and some permanently disabled. They and their families deserve our continued heartfelt thanks and unqualified support.

"As a nation and as a service, we must never forget the sacrifice of our fallen and wounded. Today, let us renew our pledge to take care of the husbands, wives, sons and daughters who struggle on, reaching out in the solidarity and kinship of military service.

"This Memorial Day, please join us in pausing to remember our fellow warriors who gave of themselves to secure the blessings of liberty for all. So much is indeed owed by so many to so few."

This joint letter to Airmen in addition to other senior viewpoints can be found in Viewpoints.