COMMENTARY: Thank you for your service Published Nov. 9, 2014 By Col Hubert C. Hegtvedt 442d Fighter Wing Commander WHITEMAN AFB, Mo. -- 442d Fighter Wing, Thank you for your service. As a nation, we have prospered because we have always had citizens like you willing to rise to answer the call to serve. The millions who have worn the military uniform have expressed our national resolve. Next Tuesday, we honor our veterans for their unyielding sacrifice and dedication to our great nation. Veterans Day was first observed in 1919 to commemorate the Armistice Agreement ending World War I - the supposed "war to end all wars." President Dwight D. Eisenhower broadened its meaning in 1954 when he officially renamed it Veterans Day, to recognize all those who had served. We have much to be thankful for on this Veterans Day -- all of our Airmen returned home safely from a challenging 6-month combat deployment. We have an exceptional military family here in the 442d Fighter Wing. You can and should be proud of your service to our nation. Please enjoy this Veterans Day and know the purpose is: "...a celebration to honor America's veterans (you) for their patriotism, love of country, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good." Thank you for your service. Respectfully, NATO HUBERT C. HEGTVEDT, Col, USAFR Commander, 442d Fighter Wing