Rumsfeld welcomes combat controllers Published Dec. 19, 2003 By Gerry J. Gilmore American Forces Press Service FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. (AFPN) -- Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld welcomed a new crop of Air Force combat controllers Dec. 18 during a visit to Pope Air Force Base, N.C.During his graduation remarks, Rumsfeld said the Combat Control School "produces some of the finest warriors in the Air Force and the armed services."In fact, the secretary said, "some 85 percent of the air strikes in Operation Enduring Freedom were called in by Air Force combat controllers." This is a testament to the quality of training and of the personal courage and skills of the graduates, Rumsfeld said.It takes "an exceptional brand" of bravery and patriotism to accomplish difficult and dangerous combat controller missions, Rumsfeld said, as well as "a willingness to risk all for our country."The war against terrorism "is a fight that we are winning," the secretary told the graduates, pointing to the recent capture of deposed dictator Saddam Hussein in Iraq.Rumsfeld thanked the airmen for their service and saluted the "determination and persistence" of all servicemembers deployed worldwide in the fight against terrorism. He told the airmen they "should never doubt" the support and appreciation of the American people."They take great pride in your courage," the secretary told the graduates.Pride was evident as Donna Sheriff watched her son, Airman 1st Class Andrew Sheriff, graduate from the combat controllers course."He has worked very hard, and he has studied very hard … I'm very proud," the airman's mother said, adding she was impressed that Rumsfeld attended the ceremony and let the graduates "know how much he appreciates them."