Wing commander sends holiday message to reservists

  • Published
  • By Col. Eric S. Overturf, 442nd Fighter Wing commander
  • 442nd Fighter Wing
WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. --  To the Airmen, civilians, and family members of the 442nd Fighter Wing:

Happy Holidays! This year has been an incredible year for the 442nd Fighter Wing. We grew to be the largest fighter wing in the Air Force Reserve, we kicked butt in an operational readiness inspection that tested our deployment readiness, and now we are proving that readiness where it really counts, by sending combat Airman and airpower downrange.

Hundreds of you will celebrate the New Year away from your families so that A-10 Thunderbolt II air power will be there when our ground forces need it, and because of you and your families' sacrifices, a soldier, sailor, Marine or Airman may live to come home to his or her family at the end of their deployment. Thank you for giving a tremendous gift of service to our nation during this holiday season - your efforts give hope to people around the world and make America's future bright for our children and grandchildren.

For those of you who are not deploying, please keep all the deployed servicemembers and their families in your thoughts and prayers. I hope you can spend time with friends, families and loved ones during the holiday season, and if you travel to do so, please be careful. If you drink, don't drive, and if you see someone that shouldn't be driving, step in and save them from a poor choice. Also remember that the holidays can be a period of increased stress for some people, so please take care of your wingmen and ask for help if you need assistance.

Again, thank you and your family for your service and commitment to our nation and the 442nd Fighter Wing. I am honored and blessed to be a part of the best A-10 wing in the Air Force! Have a joyous holiday season and a happy New Year.