Remembering America’s Veterans

  • Published
  • By Gen. Darren McDew
  • Air Mobility Command
SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. --  Mobility Airmen,

I'd like to take a moment to honor a distinguished group of men and women. This group has an unmatched track record in transforming seemingly insurmountable circumstances and challenges into triumph. It is a group accustomed to putting service before self and making the extraordinary seem routine no matter the time or place. As you may have guessed, this group of men and women consists of our military veterans from all Services, past and present.

Few people in this country are as affected by world events as our service members. Whenever the United States faces a crisis - from armed conflict to humanitarian emergency - our veterans have met the challenge. Whether it's the Minutemen from the Revolutionary War, the Tuskegee Airmen of World War II, the dedicated heroes of Vietnam, or the hundreds of thousands of men and women who have served in these last 13 years of conflict - and still support operations around the globe and at home this very moment - we have a strong heritage of bold leaders willing to answer our Nation's call.

Our military pioneers were courageous risk takers, willing to sacrifice everything to accomplish the mission, to save the lives of their brothers and sisters in arms, and to protect freedom and democracy. These veterans shaped our Service and made us what we are today - a preeminent, unrivaled fighting force that represents the American spirit.

Their brave service has inspired others to take on the mantle of service and leadership. I remember watching TV when I was young, seeing images of prisoners of war returning home from years in captivity in Vietnam. Those men made a lasting impression on me. Each one of them, many of whom had been physically decimated by years in captivity, made a point to walk off that aircraft on their own strength and salute our flag - proud of their service; grateful to be home. 

Make no mistake, all of our service members, past and present, have made a lasting impression on this country and the world. Your Nation is proud of you and all you have done. I'm thankful for the heritage that was laid before us, and for the opportunity to serve beside all of you - America's best and brightest.

Thank you for your dedication, and the sacrifices you and your families continuously make to accomplish the mission. I stand with a grateful Nation, saluting each Airman, Soldier, Sailor, Marine and Coast Guardsman.