Commentary: Commander sends holiday message to Airmen Published Dec. 6, 2009 By Col. Mark L. Clemons 442nd Fighter Wing WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE -- The holidays are a time when we can reflect on past year's accomplishments and look forward to the new opportunities and challenges of the upcoming year. It is also a time the three pillars of the reserves (the military, the family and the employer) often come together for holiday celebrations. Holidays can be a powerfully emotional period for many warrior Airmen and families. As you spend time with those closest to you, please pause for a moment for the thousands of service men and women away from their families this holiday season. They are unselfishly serving our nation and have been asked to sacrifice time from their loved ones so we could be with ours. Being an unrivaled wingman is not just a slogan, it is a way of living -- a way of watching out for each other. Find a friend, a family member or a fellow Airman and be their wingman for the holidays. We have faced challenges this past year and managed to meet many of our goals. I hope that in this new year we will continue to prosper and have a renewed focus on our upcoming endeavors, keeping in mind our core values as we work harder and more diligently to persevere as THE premiere fighter wing. As this holiday approaches, please know I am touched by the service you provide and that it comes at a great sacrifice for you and your families. I honor that service, and those who share in that sacrifice with you. Be safe out there. Your family and country needs you and all you bring to the Air Force Reserve. Rhetta and I wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas and outstanding New Year in 2010.