Airmen in Afghanistan pay tribute to Air Force anniversary

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Cortchie Welch
  • Combined Security Transition Command-Afghanistan Public Affairs
CAMP EGGERS, Afghanistan (AFPN) --  Coalition servicemembers and Airmen assigned to the Combine Security Transition Command-Afghanistan gathered to pay tribute to six decades of air and space power by celebrating the Air Force's 60th anniversary Sept. 14 here. 

The celebration, titled "Heritage to Horizons: Commemorating 60 years of Global and Space Power," began with the raising of the Air Force flag. The event included a moment of silence in observance of POW/MIA Day, a cake-cutting ceremony and a video presentation highlighting the service's history, contributions and sacrifices made by the men and women of the Air Force, past and present. 

Army Maj. Gen. Robert W. Cone, CSTC-A commanding general, who served as guest speaker for opening ceremonies of the celebration, said the Air Force's commitment to core values -- integrity first, service before self, and excellence in all we do -- "is inspiring." 

"Together with the Air Force Reserve and Air National Guard forces, the United States Air Force is the best in the world," General Cone said. "Although the Air Force is the youngest of the four services, it's achieved so much in such a short time due to its ability to travel and cross boundaries at the speed of sound and, in my opinion, was naturally postured to captured the new technologies of the 'new age' which increased its lethality, capabilities and relevancy. 

"Thank you for your service to the armed forces of the United States, your service to Operation Enduring Freedom, and your commitment to carry your full share of responsibility for the United States." 

The CSTC-A was officially established on Apr. 4, 2006. Their mission, in partnership with the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and the international community, is to plan, program and implement structural, organizational, institutional and management reforms of the Afghanistan National Security Forces in order to develop a stable Afghanistan, strengthen the rule of law, and deter and defeat terrorism within its borders.

The event brought together the coalition forces and servicemembers in tribute and celebration to six decades of air and space power.

Comment on this story (comments may be published on Air Force Link)

View the comments/letters page