U.S. Air Force Expeditionary Center leaders share Veterans Day message

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  • U.S. Air Force Expeditionary Center Public Affairs
JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. --  

 

USAF Expeditionary Center Family,

 

 

Today we celebrate and reflect on those who serve and have served in defense of our Nation. This has been a challenging year in our Nation’s history. In January, you supported the rapid deployment of the Immediate Response Force to counter Iranian aggression. In the following months, you responded to a global pandemic, providing critical aid around the world. You flawlessly executed our diverse mission sets all while preserving mission capability for our national leaders and minimizing risk to our force and our families.

 

You continued to answer the Nation’s call while juggling childcare, homeschooling, and civil and societal unrest. You showed incredible initiative to innovate, adapt, and lead through such challenges.  This year we learned a lot as individuals and an enterprise. 

 

This year also gave scores of examples of our historical significance to reflect upon. We marked the 105th anniversary of the first air raid on Britain by Germany in 1915, the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II, the 45th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War, and the 30th anniversary of the reunification of East and West Germany. Airpower played a significant role in all of these conflicts. This year also marked the 70th anniversary of the start of the Korean War – the last war where U.S. ground forces sustained losses from enemy aircraft.

 

This is your history. This is your legacy. In the words of President Kennedy, “as we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.” Today your service and sacrifice solidify our resolve. Today, Chief and I are especially thankful for you and your families. We are excited to get out on the road to meet you, celebrate your accomplishments, and thank you for all that you do. You have our best wishes for a happy and safe Veterans Day!

 

 

 

 

 

MARK D. CAMERER                                               MARIO M. SAENZ

Major General, USAF                                                Chief Master Sergeant, USAF

Commander                                                                Superintendent