Off We Go

This past week the Air Force celebrated their 60th anniversary.

Happy Birthday, USAF!

I have a very clear memory of celebrating the 50th Air Force Anniversary on a Navy base. In September of 1997, we had just arrived at Pensacola Naval Air Station for aviation training. Living on a Navy base for two years gave us a huge understanding of the differences between the armed services. And made us appreciate the Air Force all the more.

Okay, inter-service rivalries are a long standing tradition. The Air Force takes more than its fair share of ribbing from the other services, mostly because we are relatively young. But I also believe there are some fundamental differences that set us apart.

I love being a part of the Air Force and I'm proud that my husband chose his service wisely. The traditions, attitudes and values of the Air Force are just a better fit for our family.

But as much as we all tend to highlight the differences between the services, I know that our common bonds outweigh any deep seeded rivalry. We all sacrifice. We all understand honor. We all understand what it really means to support a nation.

All service members, whether they are jar heads, squids, grunts or fly boys all leave behind the same things when they go to war. They leave behind wives, parents, children, families and friends who love them.

But this week is a week to celebrate those who serve in blue. For me especially, it is a week to celebrate one special Air Force member who spends all his time with Army and Navy people in Iraq. He's done his part for the last twelve years of the Air Force's sixty. Nothing can stop him.

And..."Nothing can stop the U.S. Air Force!"