Wednesday, July 03, 2013

Senior leaders remember fallen heroes on America's birthday

7/2/2013 - WASHINGTON (AFNS) -- Acting Secretary of the Air Force Eric Fanning, Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Mark A. Welsh III and Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force James Cody send the following Independence Day message to the men and women of the U.S. Air Force:

Happy Birthday, America! For 237 years, our Nation has been built on the bedrock of freedom and democracy that our Founding Fathers established when they signed the Declaration of Independence. We draw on the courage of those patriots and take inspiration from the countless acts of heroism that followed as America's sons and daughters fought to protect our free and independent Nation.

On this Fourth of July, as Americans around the world gather to celebrate with families and loved ones, let us remember our service members who have fallen in battle. These brave heroes paid the ultimate price to make freedom possible. We must also never forget the families who have lost fathers, mothers, sons or daughters-they are part of our extended family. Remember them this Independence Day, as well as those who stand guard while we celebrate our Nation's birthday.

The American people look to our men and women in uniform as symbols of the strength and commitment of this great Nation. As Airmen, we live up to a high standard and we are grateful for all you do to defend our precious freedoms each and every day. We are proud of you, and we wish you and your families a safe and happy Fourth of July!

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