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Commentary: Happy Holidays!

  • Published
  • By Lt. Gen. Jan-Marc Jouas
  • Seventh Air Force Commander
OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea --  It's hard to believe that 2014 is right around the corner. A year goes by quickly, as thousands of Airmen assigned to Seventh Air Force well know. Looking back on 2013, our Airpower Team has a long list of accomplishments: "Excellent" Combined Unit Inspections, world class US-ROK training in Max Thunder, successful BEVERLY BULLDOG and BEVERLY MIDNIGHT exercises, and always being ready to "Fight Tonight." Most importantly, we consistently demonstrated our ability to Deter aggression, Defend the Republic of Korea, and if necessary, Defeat any adversary.

In recognition of your outstanding performance, President Park Gyun Hye honored us with a Presidential Unit Citation this year. Thanks to your dedication and service, the Republic of Korea remains a pillar of stability and prosperity in a volatile region, and our Airpower Team remains the strongest part of the strongest alliance in the world.

As we approach the holidays, Marion and I have a simple message for the Airmen of Seventh Air Force, the members of the Airpower Team, and your families: "Thank you!" Thank you for what you do each and every day to maintain peace on the Peninsula. Thank you also to your families for their sacrifices while you are in Korea supporting our mission - our successes belong to them too.

Whether you are celebrating the holidays at home with family, or with your Air Force family in Korea, look out and care for one another - be good wingmen, brothers, and sisters. Don't allow anyone to be put in a dangerous situation - bring each other home safe and sound.

Again, from our family to yours, Marion and I wish you the very best this holiday season and thank you for your service and commitment to this great alliance. We are honored to serve with you.

Lt. Gen. Jan-Marc and Marion Jouas