Happy Holidays to all 22nd Air Force Airmen

  • Published
  • 22nd Air Force
DOBBINS AIR RESERVE BASE, Georgia --  Thank you for all that you do as part of this incredible Air Force! We are the greatest Air Force in the world because of people like you – our Citizen Airmen! Whether you wear the uniform, serve as a civilian, or as a contractor, you represent the best of our Nation and I am eternally grateful for each one of you. I would also like to thank your family members and friends for their sacrifice and support, which plays a vital role in keeping morale high as we carry out our primary mission of providing combat-ready forces.

Many of you will be engaging in time honored holiday traditions over the next few weeks with family and friends. Whether you’re going across town or across the country, please keep safety in the forefront of your mind. You are all an important part of the team and we need you back safely in the New Year! Have fun, but celebrate responsibly.

Holidays are supposed to be a time of joy and celebration, but for some people the stress and anxiety during this time of year may lead to sadness and a lack of fulfillment. As good wingmen, I ask that you actively stay alert for those who appear to be troubled, lonely or depressed. Please have the courage to reach out to them and offer assistance. An integral element of our wingman culture is for Airmen to take care of Airmen. Our Wingman Toolkit is a phenomenal resource to assist those in need (wingmantoolkit.org, available as a mobile app).

Finally, please remember our brothers and sisters deployed in harm’s way, and their families who remain behind. I encourage you to reach out to our Airmen and families and let them know that you are keeping them in your thoughts and prayers.

I look forward to a great year with all of you in 2017. I am honored to serve as your Commander and Sandy and I wish you, your family members and friends the warmest of holiday greetings and best wishes for the New Year!

Maj Gen John P. Stokes
Commander, 22nd Air Force