Memorial Day, originally known as “Decoration Day” was initially dedicated in 1868 to remember and honor America’s fallen. Since then, Memorial Day has served as an opportunity to reflect on the ultimate sacrifice our soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines have made to maintain our country and its ideals.

Every day while military volunteers defend our freedoms in combat, the number of men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty continues to grow. We can never fully repay these fallen warriors, and all those we lost before them.

It is easy to take for granted the freedom and opportunities we all share, yet important to remember our freedom does not come free. As we observe this Memorial Day, let us never forget those who have defended our freedoms with their lives, and remember why we serve — we serve to defend, protect, and preserve the foundation of our nation’s freedom.

To all of our Airmen, you witness the daily dedication and sacrifices of our brothers and sisters in arms. Please set aside some time on this Memorial Day to reflect on what it takes to make the freedoms and opportunities we enjoy today possible for all of us. The preservation of our way of life comes at a high price and I ask you to think about our service and the commitment and sacrifice of those who served before.

I wish you all a safe holiday. It is my honor to serve with you, and I thank you for your commitment to Team Hill, our Air Force, and the United States of America.