Holiday Season Message - 2000

SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. (USTCNS) --- The upcoming holiday season provides an opportunity for all of us to take stock of the important values that continue to guide our nation.

In this era of tremendous international uncertainty, the world continues to look to our country as the guiding light of freedom. Every day, from posts, bases, and ports around the world, America's soldiers, sailors, Marines, airmen, Coast Guardsmen and Department of Defense civilians steadfastly support and defend our nation's strategic interests. As the foundation upon which we have built and protected our freedoms, our great military remains central to our nation's ability to forward the cause of democracy to the four corners of the globe.

U.S. Transportation Command continues to project both compassion and strength across the entire spectrum of military operations. You should be very proud of your magnificent contributions to such a variety of missions. Our nation's demonstrated resolve to friends and foe alike is inextricably linked to your commitment to excellence.

I want to personally thank each of you for the professionalism and dedication that I see every day. I am proud to serve as your commander in chief -- and equally as proud of the service you give to our great nation.

As you, the great men and women of U.S. Transportation Command and our components Air Mobility Command, Military Sealift Command and Military Traffic Management Command, gather with your families this holiday season, give thanks for the stability and prosperity you provide the world.

Please celebrate this holiday season safely, and look forward to the next year with great hope and charity. Happy holidays!