CMSAF sends Memorial Day message

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The following is a Memorial Day message from Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force Gerald R. Murray:

“America remembers. We remember the names and faces of fallen heroes of past and current wars, and we honor them by setting aside a day to memorialize their sacrifice. This sacred tradition binds us together as a nation that lives in freedom today because of those who died in battle yesterday.

“This Memorial Day, many Americans will visit the graves of loved ones who died for their country -- a father, husband, son, brother, mother, daughter, sister, wife. The flowers they bring and the thoughts they think will bring back joyful memories, and the pain of loss.

“Others will attend Memorial Day services, not because they lost a loved one, but in gratitude for the freedom they enjoy because of the heroes willing to fight and die to preserve it.

“As airmen in the U.S. Air Force, take time this Memorial Day to remember your recently fallen brethren who laid down their lives in the global war on terrorism and in Operation Iraqi Freedom: Maj. William Watkins, Maj. Gregory Stone, Capt. Eric Das, Tech. Sgt. John Chapman, Staff Sgt. Scott Sather, Staff Sgt. Patrick Griffin, Staff Sgt. Jacob Frazier, Senior Airman Jason Cunningham and Airman 1st Class Raymond Losano.

“You carry the torch these brave Americans lit. Continue to carry it proudly. As a nation, and as comrades in arms, it’s important that we remember.”