Top Air Force leaders issue Independence Day letter to Airmen

From Secretary of the Air Force Heather Wilson, Chief of Staff of the Air Force Gen. David Goldfein and Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force Kaleth Wright: 

Fellow Airmen,

Two-hundred and forty-two years ago, the Declaration of Independence established a new republic, inscribing a foundation of unalienable rights: life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. We join together to celebrate this momentous achievement, and remember the tremendous risks and sacrifices of our first patriots to secure freedom for all of us who followed.

The first battles for independence inaugurated a proud tradition of American resolve and dedication to our founding principles. We cherish the memory and valor of citizens and families past and look to their example as we carry this heritage forward. As an Air Force, we do so in defense of air, space, and cyber domains unfathomable in 1776, but which comprise vital arenas for our nation’s security today.

While we celebrate our nation’s independence with our friends and families, we take the time to remember the importance of duty and sacrifice, embodied by our brothers and sisters standing watch around the world on our behalf. Few can claim the privilege of serving our nation in uniform … we do so with pride, integrity, and a single-minded devotion to advancing this venerated legacy.

We are honored to stand beside you, and wish you a happy Independence Day.