Airmen in Afghanistan pay tribute to Air Force anniversary

AFGHANISTAN

09.14.2007

Story by Tech. Sgt. Cortchie Welch 

NATO Training Mission Afghanistan

By Tech. Sgt. Cortchie Welch
Combined Security Transition Command Afghanistan
Public Affairs Office

CAMP EGGERS, Afghanistan – Coalition and airmen assigned to the Combine Security Transition Command (CSTC) Afghanistan gathered to pay tribute to six decades of air and space power by celebrating the Air Force's 60th anniversary on Sept. 14.

The celebration, titled "Heritage to Horizons: Commemorating 60 years of Global and Space Power," began with the raising of the Air Force flag at Camp Eggers here in Kabul, Afghanistan. The event included a moment of silence in observance of Prisoner of War/Missing in Action Day, cake-cutting ceremony and a video presentation highlighting the service's history, contributions and sacrifices made by the men and women of the Air Force, past and present.

Army Maj. Gen. Robert W. Cone, CSTC-A commanding general, who served as guest speaker for opening ceremonies of the celebration, said the Air Force's commitment to core values -- integrity first, service before self, and excellence in all we do -- "is inspiring."

"Together with the Air Force Reserve and Air National Guard forces, the United States Air Force is the best in the world," Cone said. "Although the Air Force is the youngest of the four services, it's achieved so much in such a short time due to its ability to travel and cross boundaries at the speed of sound and, in my opinion, was naturally postured to capture the new technologies of the 'new age' which increased its lethality, capabilities and relevancy.

"Thank you for your service to the armed forces of the United States, your service to Operation Enduring Freedom, and your commitment to carry your full share of responsibility for the United States."

• Date Taken: 09.14.2007
• Date Posted: 09.14.2007 13:40
• Story ID: 12347
• Location: AF