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931st Commander issues holiday message

  • Published
  • By Col. Mark S. Larson
  • 931st Air Refueling Group Commander
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. --  To the 931st Air Refueling Group,

Where has the time gone?

It seems like just yesterday my family and I drove into the state for the first time. In just five short months we have grown to love Kansas and the 931 ARG; they have become our new home and family. My only regret is that I have not yet had the opportunity to personally meet all of you due to our high operational tempo and deployment cycle. The Air Force and I have asked a lot from you and you have unfailingly delivered.

As we enter this holiday season, I encourage you to take time to be with friends and loved ones. Enjoy the many traditions and celebrations that are unique to this season of the year. As you do, please express to those around you my appreciation for the hard work and sacrifice on the part of our service members and their families.

This season abounds with unique opportunities to serve and assist others. I have often found that some of my most memorable holiday moments have come when I look outside of my own needs and find a way to lighten someone else's burden.

Be mindful of those members of our group who will be separated from their families and the unique challenges they face during this time of year. We owe them a debt of gratitude. Please be good wingmen and take care of the home front while our members are deployed.

To those of you who are away from home: A special thanks for the service you are giving. We wish you happiness and safety. We miss you and we look forward to your return home (I enjoyed the card from the desert).

For most the holiday season provides an opportunity to celebrate and a short respite from the stresses of work. To others it can be a stressful period, especially in unsure economic times. Reach out to the members of your unit and provide the support they need. Please be safe. For those of you who are traveling, plan well and don't overextend. As you are celebrating, use sound judgment and if you drink, don't drive. I want to see all of you back next year safe and prepared to tackle the challenges we have ahead of us.

As I have said before, it is a privilege serving with you. I congratulate each of you on a remarkable year full of accomplishments, both as a group and individually. We are truly poised for even greater success in the upcoming year.

Best wishes to you and your families for a happy holiday season.

Respectfully,

Col Larson