Safely celebrate while giving thanks

  • Published
  • By Brig. Gen. Robert P. Steel
  • 48th Fighter Wing commander
ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England --  For many of us, the thought of turkey and dressing with family and friends is still resonating in our minds. This Thanksgiving holiday, I ask all of us to take the time to reflect on our deployed service members, the sacrifice military families make, and how you can make the holidays as safe as possible for you, your family and your wingman.

First, whether you say grace before the holiday meals or simply spend a few minutes on your own reflecting on what you're thankful for, remember in your words and thoughts those who cannot be with families and friends this holiday season. Many Liberty Warriors are deployed around the world ensuring our freedom as Americans. Take a moment to give thanks for their service and their sacrifice.

Secondly, while you gather with your loved ones over the holiday, be thankful for each other. As a military member, you aren't the only one affected by temporary duty assignments and deployments; your family is affected as well. Thank them for their continued dedication, sacrifice and understanding.

A simple "Thank you" can go a long way.

My family and I are thankful for each and every member of the Liberty Wing. As a team, we cannot afford to lose anyone. With that said, keep safety in mind this holiday season. For those of you traveling, have a plan to reach your destination safely. For those who plan to have a few drinks with holiday dinners, have a designated driver or wingman available. There are so many programs on base that offer a safe ride home; take advantage of them. Liberty warriors, I implore you, don't damper your holiday season with a DUI or an alcohol related incident.

During the holiday season, the wingman concept is critical. Bottom line: take care of each other. As service members serving in a foreign country, separation from our loved ones in the U.S. can be stressful. Take the time to talk to your fellow Airmen, ask them where they might be having dinner. Call the family of a deployed co-worker and tell them you are thinking of them this holiday season. These small acts of kindness are what Airmen taking care of Airmen is all about.

This, from the Steel family to yours -- enjoy the time with your family and friends, and have a safe and blessed Thanksgiving holiday.