Take care of yourselves, families and wingmen this holiday season Published Dec. 8, 2009 By General Gary North Pacific Air Forces Commander Hickam AFB, Hawaii -- With the holiday season fast approaching, Chief Master Sgt. McLean and I and the entire HQ PACAF staff and our families want to offer a sincere thank you to the entire Pacific Air Forces team--military, civilians and family members--who have enabled continued success for our command in the Asia-Pacific region in 2009. This time of year allows us to spend very special moments with family and friends, and also gives us a chance to reflect on our mission to promote peace and stability in the Pacific region, and to thank those and their families that are serving around the world...some in harm's way in the CENTCOM AOR. We have met and overcome enormous challenges this year, thanks to the skill and precision of our Airmen working side-by-side with our joint and coalition partners. From providing immediate support to disaster relief efforts in Indonesia and American Samoa to conducting bi-lateral training with allies in South Korea and India, we've continued to engage and build partnership capacity and military capabilities in the region while maintaining responsive combat airpower. While we reflect on these great accomplishments, we must also remember the importance of taking care of ourselves and our families. Part of that means taking time to recharge and relax with our family, friends and loved ones. It is also imperative that we stay tuned to watch out for our "wingmen" and their families, as many members of our team will spend this holiday season away from home. Additionally, we will continue to celebrate the Year of the Air Force Family this holiday season focusing on our Airmen and their families in recognition of their dedication and service to our nation at war. This initiative aims to raise awareness of the many support products, services and events available; assess our quality of service; revive a sense of community and culture; and even expand and enhance our support initiatives. The Year of the Air Force Family is about leadership rallying our energy, efforts and resources around our Airmen and families. Again, our sincere thanks for what each of you--and your families--do each day for our Air Force, Our Joint and Combined forces and for our great nation! Happy Holidays!