Fellow Airmen, as the holiday season reaches its peak and 2015 draws to a close, we reflect on the accomplishments you have achieved in supporting the warfighter. Though it has been a year of conflict around the globe, you have delivered magnificently.
I fully recognize none of this is possible without the world-class people, Airmen, who keep the Air Force Sustainment Center thriving. The sacrifices you and your families make day-to-day bear true witness to your love of country. No matter what the challenge or the demands from the warfighter, you deliver.
I ask that during this season, let us continue to maintain our culture of being a good Wingman and remember those away from their families or struggling during this time of year. As many of you know there are more than 21,000 deployed Airmen supporting combat operations around the world. These Airmen will be spending this special time of year far from those they love most.
Being away from loved ones during the holidays is not new. In fact, during Christmas 1914, along parts of the Western Front of World War I, unofficial truces between British and German soldiers took place. In the trenches on Christmas morning carols were sung and rations thrown across the opposing lines. It was not long before the more adventurous soldiers started to take matters into their own hands and venture into no-man’s-land. Here they exchanged food, tobacco, cigarettes, drink, badges and buttons. Both sides saw the lull in fighting as a chance to find the bodies of their comrades and give them a decent burial. The story is one where man’s humanity overtook the act of war, and the holiday spirit shined.
As our nation’s servicemen and women engage in conflict during this holiday season, keep them and their families foremost in your hearts. I wish for them peace and a safe return.
My family and I also wish for you and yours a happy, peaceful holiday season and a 2016 that brings you joy. I’m proud to serve alongside you, and I look forward to the coming year as we continue to deliver unmatched combat power for America.
As always, I am proud to be your fellow Airman.
