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View from the Top: Wishing you a safe, wonderful holiday season

  • Published
  • By Gen. William R. Looney III
  • Air Education and Training Command commander
RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE, Texas (AETCNS) --  The holidays are an important time to reflect on the past year and give thanks for our family, our friends and the opportunity to serve the American people in the greatest Air and Space Force the world has ever known.

This year, the Airmen of the First Command were presented with many challenges: recruiting, training and educating our future force; preparing for and responding to Hurricanes Katrina and Rita; and engaging in the Global War on Terror. You met each of these challenges with the integrity, excellence and selfless service that are the hallmarks of our command.

But we all know that without the support of our families, we would not be where we are today--as individuals or as a team. We certainly would not have been able to achieve this year's tremendous successes. That's why I encourage you to take a break from the speed of everyday life during this holiday season to enjoy time with the people who are most important to you.

As you reflect on this past year, remember the Airmen, Soldiers, Sailors, and Marines who are fighting in the Global War on Terrorism. Remember in your prayers and in your actions families who are separated during the holidays...this is a tough time for them and they need our support. Remember those Americans who have lost loved ones in this struggle...because while the rest of our citizens enjoy this season of celebration, they bear an especially heavy burden. These families need to know that their loved ones died serving a noble cause. Each generation of Americans has answered the call to sacrifice for the values we cherish, and this generation is no different. We are fighting the Global War on Terrorism for our children and our children's children. Thanks to those who have paid the ultimate price--and those who continue the fight--our families will enjoy the blessings of liberty for years to come.

Still others faced heart-wrenching losses this year, and we must remember them. For those who are still recovering from this unprecedented hurricane season, know that the Air Force is behind you every step of the way. Nothing is more important than family - and you are a part of ours. You can continue to rely on us.

Finally, to all our Airmen and their families: Be safe!

If just one piece of a jigsaw puzzle is missing, your eyes are immediately drawn to the absent part. The same principle applies to our command. We are an interdependent team, and each of you is vital to our success. When even one piece of the AETC puzzle is missing, we all feel it. Use common sense and personal risk management while traveling and enjoying holiday activities.

Savor the holidays, and come back whole, healthy, refreshed and fully prepared to do your part to make 2006 a benchmark year for the First Command. My wife, Marilyn, and I wish you a wondrous holiday season, and we wish you health, happiness, and success in 2006 as we continue to develop America's Airmen today...for tomorrow.