Commentary by Gen. Lori Robinson
Headquarters, Pacific Air Forces
11/10/2015 - JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii -- -- To
the men and women of Pacific Air Forces and to veterans across the
services, I offer my sincere gratitude and appreciation for your
dedicated service. As you know, this Wednesday commemorates a
significant date in our nation's history, a day in 1918 where a signed
armistice marked an end to World War I. The historical significance of
Veterans Day reminds us of the sacrifice of military service. On this
day, let us honor the thousands of American veterans, past and present,
for their love of country and their willingness to be a part of
something bigger than themselves.
A couple of weeks ago, the University of Hawaii hosted the Air Force
football team, resulting in a 58-7 victory for the Air Force. I had the
privilege of attending a pep rally where I met many of our Air Force's
future officers from the 2016-2019 graduating classes. One of the things
that struck me was their connection to our heritage through their class
exemplars. The Airmen they selected to aspire to were Maj. David
"Klepto" Brodeur, Col. George "Bud" Day, and Capt. Louie "Zamp"
Zamperini.
Brodeur was a decorated F-16 pilot who deployed as an advisor to the
Afghan Command and Control Center and was subsequently killed in 2011
when an Afghan military trainee turned gunfire on him. Col Day served
during three major wars and when shot down in Vietnam, refused to yield
to his tormentors at the Hanoi Hilton for five years and seven months,
escaping once despite tremendous injuries. Capt Zamperini, the subject
of the book and subsequent movie "Unbroken," was a World War II
bombardier who survived 47 days at sea after his plane experienced
mechanical difficulties and had to ditch, only to be captured and held
prisoner for two years in Japan.
Every generation has faced difficult challenges, and our generation is
no exception. This Veterans Day, I ask that we reflect upon the
importance of what we do. Whether you are military or civilian; active
duty, Reserve or Guard; Soldier, Sailor, Marine, Airman or Coast
Guardsman, each and every one of you plays a vital part in safeguarding
our way of life. And, despite how much we ask of you and your families,
you continue to amaze me with your character, your resilience and your
devotion to duty and country. Truly, from the bottom of my heart, thank
you!
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