SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill (USTCNS) --- On this Veterans Day we are a nation at war-a new kind of war, but certainly one that will require the brave sacrifices like that of our valiant men and women who have honorably served in defense of our great nation in past wars.

The attacks on our nation on September 11th will once again call on the spirit of America to rise up to meet the terrorists who seek to destroy us. We did not seek this fight, but we will win this fight! As President George Bush said, "We will not allow this enemy to win the war by changing our way of life or restricting our freedoms."

Our fellow citizens and the free world look to those of us in uniform as the keepers of the flame of freedom. We have a duty to them and to our brothers- and sisters-in-arms who preceded us. Our great force today assures the defense of our Constitution through a strong tradition of dedication to duty…brilliantly honoring those who have served.

The men and women of United States Transportation Command and component commands-Air Mobility Command, Military Sealift Command, and Military Traffic Management Command-exemplify the values that have made our nation a shining example to the world. Today and in the days ahead, America will expect nothing less than greatness from us.

By your continued professional performance of duty, I know you will continue to honor the memory of our past great veterans.