- [Barbara] Airmen, space professionals,
and Department of the Air Force
civilians and families,
today our nation faces an unprecedented threat.
COVID-19 presents a challenge we have not faced before.
We will get through this together,
just as we have every other obstacle
our nation has faced.
Secretary Esper directed all installations worldwide
to increase the health protection level
to Charlie as a prudent measure
to protect our forces.
Over the past few weeks
we have witnessed the country working together
with our entire government,
and with allies, industry, and community partners
to tackle this pandemic.
Already airmen and space professionals
have been called to action.
Airmen of the 86th Airlift Wing
transported hospital beds to Italy
to increase the patient capacity
of our Italian allies.
In Honduras airmen evacuated US citizens.
And across the country Total Force airmen
are among the 9000 guardsmen
who support governors and interagency partners
mitigating the spread of COVID-19 in their communities.
What you are doing goes beyond the core mission
of the Air Force and Space Force,
and I thank you.
Wherever you are working today,
you play an important role keeping jets flying,
satellites operating, and our nuclear forces ready.
I understand the new operating environment
causes hardships on you and your family.
Our goal is to protect you
while minimizing the spread of COVID-19.
The next several weeks will test us.
We will continue to focus on three priorities.
First, protect the force, their families and communities.
Second, maintain readiness.
And third, support the entire government's response
to this pandemic.
Together, with the dedication and sacrifice
airmen and space professionals make every day,
we will lead through this.
We will do everything in our power
to take care of you and your family
while you take care of our nation.
Thank you for everything you do
to make this the world's greatest
Air Force and Space Force.