An MQ-9 Reaper sits on the flight line at Hurlburt Field, Fla., May 3, 2014.The MQ-9 Reaper is an armed, multi-mission, medium-altitude, long-endurance remotely piloted aircraft that is employed primarily as an intelligence-collection asset and secondarily against dynamic execution targets. (U.S. Air Force photo illustration/Staff Sgt. John Bainter)

Commentaries

Memorial Day message from the commander

  • Published
  • By Col. Kevin Merrill
  • 919th Special Operations Wing
DUKE FIELD, Fla. --  

Citizen Air Commandos & Families,

This Memorial Day weekend Americans will take time to remember those who died in service to our nation.

Many have selflessly answered our nation’s call in the time of need. The Tuskegee Airmen, Doolittle Raiders and the Special Tactics Airmen who fought at the Battle of Roberts Ridge in Afghanistan are just a few examples of those who sacrificed for a set of ideals transcending themselves, and many did not return home.

Every loss of a servicemember is a loss to the nation, a loss to our military and more importantly a loss to the families who grieve. As we gather to honor the memories of the fallen, we may not always understand the depths of the sacrifice required of the loved ones left behind and their sense of loss. But we can show our appreciation and make sure the anguish these families feel is tempered by the gratitude of an entire country who knows these patriots died in support of a noble cause.

Please enjoy and be safe this Memorial Day weekend and observe in your own way a moment of remembrance by pausing from whatever you are doing to reflect on the brave sacrifices of those who have given their lives for us. In doing so, we will do our part to ensure these heroes are never forgotten on this day and every day!