CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. –
July 4th is a celebration of our independence and the forging of a new path for a nation. I am reminded of the sacrifices our nation has made so we may enjoy the hallowed sanctities of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. President Lincoln spoke of patriotism not only as pride in where one lives, but the fortitude of conviction in a life that would make the place where you live proud of you. I see many examples of that patriotic principle here at Charleston AFB, where each of you has taken initiatives to improve your work place and focus on the mission.
In the Air Force, we do not typically tie a specific date to a feeling of patriotism; rather, patriotism is a life-long practice and a part of who we are. What the men and women of Team Charleston have done for their country is nothing short of miraculous in terms of time, commitment and sacrifice.
This week, Chief Master Sgt. Mike Ivey and I started our visits with North Charleston Mayor Keith Summey and enjoyed listening to him praise all we accomplish at Charleston AFB. On base, we went to the 437th Medical Group and saw individuals performing heroic efforts to ensure our mission capability. Leon Smith, who has served Team Charleston since 1982 as the medical equipment custodian, still uses his blue typewriter at 60 words per minute! Lt. Col. (Dr.) Donald Lane, caring for our children as the clinic's Pediatrician has a tremendous responsibility and thrives in his duty. I saw Tech. Sgt. James Jordan provide outstanding biomedical technical services in the medical group and was fortunate to see Capt. Chris Palumbo, who is PCSing from Charleston knowing he led the medical group's logistics to great heights!
I stopped by and visited one of our most significant safety initiatives, our Sport Bike Safety Course. Tech. Sgt. Aaron Abercrombie, Staff Sgt. Daryl Washington and Senior Airman Stephen Lacey endured soaring temperatures on hot asphalt to give lifesaving instruction - they are making a difference! I also met Tech. Sgt. Earla Webb and Staff Sgt. Catherine Johnson as they began to implement our new identification card scanning equipment to ensure safety within our gates.
My hope for you over this July 4th weekend is that you have time to reflect on the patriotic sacrifices of those who made this country free. While we respect the sacrifices of great Americans, take an introspective look at what you can do in your personal or professional life to make not only Charleston AFB, but also this great nation proud of your service. Thank you for your patriotism.