June 18, 2009
Earlier this year
General Schwartz and I had the privilege of presenting the
Air Force Cross, the Air Force's highest distinction of
valor in combat, to Staff Sergeant Zachary Rhyner for his
efforts on April 6, 2008 in Afghanistan. Family, friends and
comrades gathered to honor the extraordinary heroism of
Sergeant Rhyner and his Joint teammates -- and to be
reminded of the remarkable tenacity of the American warrior.
Like all of America's Airmen, Sergeant Rhyner's story is one
of teamwork --
teamwork that began well before combat started.
As Sergeant Rhyner
and his Army teammates fought their long and grueling
battle, they were not alone! Contributions came from many
corners and Services. Acquisition professionals and
industry partners ensured that the team deployed with
reliable and effective equipment. Veterans of recent
expeditionary operations ensured that the team's tactics,
techniques and procedures were first-rate by passing on
hard-won knowledge. Finally, combat power from the skies
above helped secure the team's position by multiplying their
firepower.
This remarkable experience reminds us
that teamwork starts with YOU. By joining the Air Force, you
have joined a cause greater than yourself -- one where
success comes from collective efforts. Daily, you build on a
rich legacy of Americans who pooled their talent to change
the world -- from launching American military aviation with
the Wright Flyer ... to catapulting the Project Mercury
astronauts into space ... to being a critical component of
the Joint cyber team. And, while domains of air, space and
cyberspace continually evolve, our heritage demonstrates
that teamwork is the linchpin of success.
We
have added Sergeant Rhyner to a long list of distinguished
Airmen -- rightfully so, as the actions of his Joint team
reflect the finest traditions of American warriors in
battle. In the process, we are reminded that
all Air Force
stories -- including your own -- begin with Airmen who
commit to working together to serve our Nation. Thank you
for all that you do for our continued success as a Total
Force team.
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