18th Wing commander wishes Team Kadena happy holidays

  • Published
  • By Brig. Gen. Matt Molloy
  • 18th Wing commander
KADENA AIR BASE, Japan --  As we prepare to finish out 2011, my family and I wish you and your families a very joyous Christmas and happy holiday season!

We'd also like to thank you for your accomplishments this past year. Your hard work and professionalism led to outstanding support for our Japanese counterparts during Operation Tomodachi, a time when an allied nation needed us most. Let us not forget all of your dedication has also led to another year of peace and stability in the western Pacific region.

This time of year can be especially difficult for any service member who is stationed away from home. Team Kadena is a family. Therefore, I think it is important we reach out to make certain no one is alone this holiday season.

Please also keep in your thoughts and prayers the Airmen, Soldiers, Sailors, Marines and DoD civilians who are deployed, standing point all over the world. Unselfishly, they have reckoned that separation is a bitter but necessary pill to swallow for the cause of freedom.

During this festive season, don't forget to be a good wingman! Protect yourself, your family and friends by taking steps to make sure you and those you celebrate with have a plan to avoid driving under the influence of alcohol. Remember to always designate a non-drinking driver BEFORE any holiday party or celebration begins and don't be afraid to take the keys of those who are impaired.

Remember too that our decisions this holiday season not only affect Team Kadena, but our Okinawan neighbors as well. We are all U.S. ambassadors to our gracious Japanese hosts. It is important all service members and civilians continue to foster a great relationship with the people of Okinawa who have kindly extended their friendship, their country and their communities this holiday season and coming New Year. We do this simply by making responsible decisions.

Again, the Molloy family wishes you a joyous holiday season and we hope you have a terrific New Year!