A warrior's seasons greetings: Peace on Earth

  • Published
  • By Col. Ronald A. Rutland
  • 512th Airlift Wing commander
DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. --  'Tis the season where nights grow longer and the days colder, but many of us are enlightened and warmed by the spirit of the holiday season.

The holiday season means different things to different people. For many, it is a season of hope and joy, a time to reflect upon our blessings, families and hopes for the future.

One of my greatest privileges has been to command the outstanding men and women of the 512th Airlift Wing here and the 447th Air Expeditionary Group at Sather Air Base, Iraq, during my deployment this summer.

While our predecessors have set a very high standard for what we need to accomplish in the Air Force, Airmen today are no different when it comes to maintaining and raising that standard. Every one of these warriors stood up and volunteered to serve their country, and like every other conflict in our history, Airmen today continue to prove they are ready, willing and able to accept any challenge put before them. It's with great pride and distinct pleasure I watch these warriors carry on the legacy of our Air Force.

As we gather with our loved ones this holiday season, let's all remember the men and women who also fight freedom's cause in Iraq, Afghanistan and other locations within the Area of Responsibility. For these Airmen, Marines, Soldiers and Sailors the holidays will be about sacrifice, duty and service. These men and women will not be able to gather in their homes and watch their loved ones open presents, but will be standing guard in deployed locations protecting our gifts of life and freedom.

Take to heart all the families who are left behind. Let them know they are in our thoughts and prayers, and we are there for them if they need us. Much of this wing's success and accomplishments are due to the families who support us all year long.

So, this holiday season, savor the time you have with your family, and thank them for everything they do. May these special holidays bring peace to each one of you and your loved ones as well as bring you and your families closer together to enjoy this season.

To the men and women of the 512th AW, and our partners at the 436th Airlift Wing, Tanya and I are so proud to be part of the 512th AW family and Team Dover. We wish all of you a very safe and blessed holiday season and the happiest of New Years.