By American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, DC - The chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff issued his holiday message today, thanking servicemembers and families for their service and asking that others remember their sacrifices.
"I thank each of you for your dedicated service as you defend
our national interests around the world. Whether on the ground, in
the air, on the sea, or under it, you are making life better and
safer for millions of people. Please know you have your nation's
deepest gratitude," the statement from Navy Adm. Michael G.
Mullen reads.
"As we count our many blessings, let us
never forget our brothers and sisters in harm's way and the families
with empty seats at their holiday tables. Theirs is the sacrifice,
the great and noble service, that allows our comfort and our freedom
this season. Reach out to them if you can. Let them know they are
remembered," Mullen wrote.
The chairman is this week
traveling with the 2007 USO holiday tour on the 15-stop,
seven-country tour thanking the forward deployed troops for their
sacrifice and service.
With Christmas a week away, Mullen
passed along his holiday greetings in person during a stop in Kuwait
yesterday.
"I'd like to express my appreciation for what
you do, not just for the nation, but for the world," he said.
"You are making a big difference in a very challenging part of
the world."
Mullen said he knows the holidays are a hard
time to be away from family.
"We know that, and we keep
them in our thoughts and prayers, and we hope we can bring a little
cheer during this holiday season for you as you serve on this
deployment," he said. "You could not be as successful on
this deployment without the support of those families, and we're
extremely grateful for all the things that they do to make your
service possible."
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