Deployed warriors: Remember them, support them

  • Published
  • By Chief Master Sgt. Thomas Westermeyer
  • 96th Air Base Wing command chief
EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. (AFNS) --  There are people whose sole focus is on the holidays: planning, travelling, wrapping gifts, decorating and spending quality time with family and friends. They are the lucky ones.

For many servicemembers, their focus is on making the most out of the time they have before saying goodbye to friends and loved ones as well as making final preparations for their departure.

During this hectic time of year, it's easy to forget about deployed Airmen and those they leave behind. As we enjoy this holiday season, let's remember that our family extends beyond those in our homes. The term "Air Force family" is not just words, it's a sentiment that embraces all of us and challenges us to take care of one another.

When trimming the tree or sharing a laugh at an office holiday party, remember we are a nation at war. While enjoying all the excitement the season brings, don't forget about the men and women who are separated from those most important to them. Continue to support them and their loved ones.

People in many homes across our great nation will be saying goodbye to their loved ones as warriors pack their mobility bags, admirably responding to their nation's call. Many of these families will be alone for the first time, others have experienced this many times before and it never gets easier while their loved ones are gone. Deployed warriors will miss many milestones including holidays, birthdays, anniversaries and a child's firsts. Make the effort to let them know they are not forgotten. Send packages, letters or e-mails reminding them they're remembered.

Think of the warriors who are deployed. While they are serving our country, they need to focus on the mission at hand. If they lose focus, lives could be at stake. It's important to help ease the additional strain a warrior's absence will create. If the warrior is worried about home, his or her focus will not be on the job at hand: staying safe while deployed and coming home.

Be a good wingman.  Take the time to call a deployed warrior's loved ones and include them in holiday celebrations. Continue to communicate with those who are deployed. Use base programs to help alleviate additional stresses or find a support system.

Our warriors are worth taking that extra moment to remember.