Holidays are time for reflection Published Dec. 15, 2006 By Col. Gary Batinich 419th Fighter Wing Commander HILL AIR FORCE BASE, UT -- The holiday season is once again upon us and another year will soon come to a close. As I look back I am once again reminded how blessed I am to be called your commander. Your accomplishments and unwavering dedication humble me and make this wing the consistent outstanding performer it has always been. Thanks for carrying forward the vision of excellence many of our alumni set as the foundation of this great organization. Each year, as I reflect on our wing's accomplishments, I am so thankful each of you has made the choice to serve this great nation. Please take some time out from the hustle and bustle of the holiday season to reflect on how blessed we are to live in a country where we are free to speak our minds, choose our religion, and elect our leaders. We live in the most prosperous nation on earth, yet many rarely stop to consider the cost of that prosperity. This high price is being felt by many families who face the holiday season with the staggering realization that their loved one is never coming home, having made the ultimate sacrifice in an effort to keep this country safe from those who would do us harm and to promote peace and goodwill to many parts of the world where our presence represents the first and possibly only hope for many thousands of people. Last year at this time many of our people were deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Thankfully, most of our people will be home with their families this year, but we do have small groups of our folks deployed to various locations across the globe. Please keep them - and their families - in your thoughts and prayers ... as well as the hundreds of thousands of other service members who are also far from home. While our members overseas may not be able to stay out of harm's way, I would also ask that you focus on staying safe here at home. With the freezing temperatures, snow and ice, it is important to slow down and take additional precautions while driving. Also, remember to use appropriate equipment when hanging holiday decorations and lighting. Sometimes small mistakes can lead to tragedy. Please use common sense when it comes to alcohol consumption and be a designated driver when you can. If you need a ride, call a friend, your supervisor, or a cab. Don't ever drive if you have been drinking! It takes less than a minute to call for a ride, and there is no excuse for not making the right choice. Finally, I would ask that each of you take some time to reflect on the accomplishments of the past year and shift your focus to what lies ahead in 2007. In addition to the many things we have planned for this next year, we will face many challenges we are presently unaware of. I know I can count on your professionalism and dedication that has always ensured we have not only tackled our challenges but greatly exceeded all expectations in the process. Along with my wife, Bobbie, and our family, I wish all of you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.