VIEW FROM TOP>>Honoring our Veterans

By Brig. Gen. Rowayne A. Schatz, Jr.
19th Airlift Wing commander

I would like to thank everyone who made Gen. Arthur J. Lichte’s, Air Mobility Command commander, and Chief Master Sgt. Joseph Barron’s, Air Mobility Command command chief, visit a success. They were both very impressed by all the Airmen of Team Little Rock.

During their visit, General Lichte had a chance to attend our Community Council luncheon and accepted a check for $5 million from the Honorable Tommy Swaim, City of Jacksonville mayor, on behalf of the Air Force. The citizens of Jacksonville raised the money to help us build a joint education center.

The general and I were also afforded the opportunity to meet members of the 306th Bombardment Group. It was an honor and a privilege to dine with these living legends. They were the first U.S. Army Air Force unit over Germany during World War II.

One member of their unit, Maynard Harrision Smith, was awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor for his heroic deeds during their bombing missions.

On Monday, we will honor these great men and the tens of millions of Americans who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces at a Veteran’s Day retreat ceremony at Heritage Park. I ask you all to take the opportunity on Veteran’s Day to reflect on the contributions of the men and women who have served in the Armed Forces. Their role and the role you fulfill today, have been vital to maintaining our freedoms and the way of life enjoyed by the people of our great nation.

We are an all-volunteer force. Our military men and women serve eagerly and willingly, displaying a quiet courage and exemplary service. This Veterans Day, it’s important to remember these heroes for their loyalty, dedication and valor. Let the sacrifices and courage of all who have served before you inspire you today as we work, as a military and as a nation, toward advancing peace and extending freedom around the world.

I am proud to serve with you, and I thank you and your families for your dedication and sacrifice to our team, our mission and our country. Combat Airlift!