AFDW commander shares holiday message with Airmen, families

Published Dec. 16, 2011
By Maj. Gen. Darren W. McDew
Air Force District of Washington Commander

NATIONAL CAPITAL REGION -- As the holiday season brings 2011 to a close, I offer my sincere thanks to our Air Force District of Washington Airmen and their family members. It has been a challenging year, but the AFDW team worked hard throughout 2011 to achieve the highest standards of excellence. I am proud to serve with each one of you.

I encourage you to take some time off and focus on two very important responsibilities - taking care of yourselves and your families. Enjoy some quality time with your loved ones, recharge and come back ready to tackle the challenges the New Year will bring.

Whether you are relaxing at home or traveling, please don't forget your wingman and extended Air Force family. The holidays can be a difficult time for people who may be dealing with personal issues. Make sure your wingman or someone in their family is not trying to handle a heavy burden on their own. Be ready and willing to lend a helping hand to those around you.

Remember our Soldiers, Sailors, Marines, Airmen and Coast Guardsmen who are spending the holiday season away from their families in places far from home. Be wingmen for their families. To those serving in harm's way, I extend my deepest appreciation and wishes for a successful deployment and for your safe return to the National Capitol Region.

Evelyn and I thank you for all that you do for our nation, our Air Force and the command. We wish you the very best for the holidays and a happy new year.