EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- The Declaration of Independence, signed 244 years ago, led to the establishment of a new nation, built on a foundation of unalienable rights: life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. I join with you to celebrate this momentous occasion, and remember the tremendous risks and sacrifices of our first patriots to secure freedom for all of us who followed. Those freedoms allow our nation to continue to grow and for us to improve as a people.
Today, we battle to secure our freedom on many fronts. Globally, we keep our near peer adversaries at arm’s length, and here at home keep equality for all our nations’ citizens and our Airmen at the forefront. Add to that the challenge to maintain our mission while the fight against COVID-19 is ongoing and we too are faced with many risk and sacrifices.
As we continue the proud tradition of celebrating our nation’s independence, I need you to take some time this weekend to pause and reflect on all those things we hold close and cherish in our hearts. I need you to put work aside and enjoy some well-deserved downtime, and I need you to do this safely. We must preserve our health, the health of our families, and that of our Wingmen.
The number of COVID-19 cases in our workforce is increasing, but each of us has the power to reduce this trend. I cannot emphasize enough how important your actions are in mitigating the spread of this public health threat and reducing the impact to our mission. I strongly urge Team Eglin military, civilian, and family members to find safe ways to celebrate this year’s holiday. If you find yourself attending an event or spending time with a larger group, I encourage you to wear a mask and to practice social distancing whenever possible.
Please enjoy the 4th of July weekend, and do so safely. I need each one of you back next week, serving our country, and protecting this nation we cherish.
Stay safe and stay connected.