CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. –
Team Charleston, another Thanksgiving has passed and if you are like me, you had too much turkey, too much sports on television and too much shopping on "Black Friday."
These are all typical Thanksgiving holiday activities most of us know well. The one thing that makes these so special is that they are best enjoyed when shared with our family and friends. Between now and Christmas, the opportunity for celebrations and much merry making are around both at home and at work. No matter the location, the most important ingredient is quality time with the people we love and care for the most.
Whether near or far, our family and friends mean so much to us. I was fortunate to share the holiday with my sister and her family. The wonderful day we had reminded me of how blessed I am. I'm grateful for every opportunity to share time with my family even if it's just a chat on the telephone. The love we have for our families and the desire to secure their future are chief reasons we are motivated to serve our country. We serve so they can have a country where they can grow strong and live free.
Just as we should not take our freedom for granted, we should also avoid taking our families for granted as well. We put a tremendous amount of energy into our work -- which makes us the most awesome force in the world. Our families are awesome and they deserve a similar degree of our effort. It's important for us to let them know how much we love and appreciate the sacrifices they make for us everyday.
This holiday season, amidst all of the demands of work and the stress of last minute-shopping and preparations, don't forget to do something special for your spouse and children. And as you count your blessings, remember them and thank God for your good fortune.
Last week I attended NCO Academy Class 08-A graduation at Robins AFB, Ga. We are extremely proud of them all and extend best wishes as they go on to use their newly acquired skills and knowledge. We extend special congratulations to our three distinguished graduates. They were Tech. Sgt. Jonathan Lynch, from the 437th Logistics Readiness Squadron, Tech. Sgt. Sheddrick Simpson, from the 437th Aerial Port Squadron, and Tech. Sgt. Ronald Trucott, Jr., from the 437th Maintenance Operations Squadron. It was a special honor for me to be the guest presenter who handed them their awards.
Also, please join me in welcoming my new assistant, Tech. Sgt. Cornelious Cunningham. He is an information manager who brings a wealth of experience to the job. I'd like to give my special thanks to Tech. Sgt. Nina Murphy for her outstanding command chief support throughout the past year. She returned to the 437th Mission Support Squadron where she can apply the experience she's gained. I'm confident she will do great things there just as she has at the wing.
Finally, congratulations to our December promotees. You have proven you are ready for greater responsibility and tougher challenges. We know you will rise to meet every challenge with overwhelming enthusiasm.
Team Charleston - Take the Fight to the Enemy!