America's Spirit - Our Veterans

  • Published
  • By Chief Master Sgt. Kevin Candler
  • 423rd Air Base Group Superintendant
RAF ALCONBURY, United Kingdom --  As we approach Veterans Day, I'd like to share a few thoughts about those who I believe represent America's Spirit ... our veterans, those warriors who resemble this spirit, and the incredible sacrifices our men and women make each and every day as you, like so many before, continue to demonstrate this spirit.

Do you ever rise up in the morning and wonder what you would be waking up to as a citizen of another country? As Americans, we are blessed to be a part of the most prosperous society in the world. And, due to our commitment to advance air, space, sea, and land power from humble beginnings, we stand today as the most capable military force on the planet. However, to continue our transformation through the 21st century, we must further integrate our operations and improve technology. But I ask, is it technology that serves as the source of the Spirit of America? I say absolutely not.

I believe it is our sons and daughters who are the Spirit, because we've learned that to gain and maintain military dominance, one element is absolutely essential -- people. This is the real reason we pause on Veterans Day to recognize and celebrate the people who personify this spirit -- the men and women who have propelled America ever forward throughout the course of history -- our veterans.

One important question to ask at this point is what caused American men and women to step forward to answer their nation's call? America entered World War I not to retaliate for the loss of property, but to respond to the loss of American lives, and this is a common theme you can see throughout history. In World War II, it took the dreadful events of Dec. 7, 1941, which resulted in 2,323 U.S. servicemen losing their lives to once again awaken the sleeping giant. But once engaged, the Spirit resulted in a firm resolve to finish the job, not only in Asia, but also Europe. During The Korean War, Vietnam, and more recent conflicts, in each instance, American men and women have continued history's proud pattern of sacrifice and risk for freedom.

I'm happy to say the Spirit is alive, vibrant and continues to prevail. And what better time to celebrate than on Veterans Day. On that day we set aside our routine activities and pause to appreciate all the veterans who have served our great nation. We honor the combat veterans who stand out for having put their lives on the line again and again to preserve our freedoms. They have earned our nation's deepest admiration.

Today's force represents a broad cross section of our society. We are men and women representing every ethnic group. We are from the largest cities to the smallest towns. We are superbly trained and completely prepared because the events of the past several years have demonstrated the world's uncertainty and have proven we should take nothing for granted. In past times, it may have been easy to forget those who stood guard throughout the night allowing others to sleep. Today, with continued operations in Afghanistan and other parts of the world, we share a renewed focus on saluting and remembering those who've served.

On the 11th of November, we will reflect on all veterans who have served in the nation's armed forces, overseas and at home. Heroes from the past who made the world what it is ... and heroes of today who are shaping what the world will be like tomorrow. You, the Airman, Soldier, Sailor and Marine, are important as you are the liberators of the future, and you will decide what comes next. Reflect on that as you go about your duties, never accepting "good enough" as your standard. Thank You to the 'Spirit of America'!