Eighth Air Force command chief thanks you for your service Published Nov. 23, 2010 By Chief Master Sgt. Brian Hornback Eighth Air Force command chief BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. -- I hope this finds the men and women of the Mighty Eighth all doing well as we enter this holiday season! With Thanksgiving upon us and the mad rush for Christmas and the New Year quickly approaching, I wanted to take the time to let you know how much I appreciate your sacrifice and dedication to this great country. Thanksgiving is an opportunity for families to come together, look back on the year and give thanks for the many blessings enjoyed by all. I hope you take the time this Thanksgiving to thank your families, those both near and far, immediate and extended, as they sacrifice in serving alongside each of us. I also want to personally thank each of you for your service this holiday season - whether you're responding to the call in support of operations New Dawn and Enduring Freedom, deploying in support of the Continuous Bomber Presence, restoring our nation's confidence in the nuclear mission by being prepared for the numerous no-notice Nuclear Surety Inspections or remaining strategically vigilant in projection of nuclear deterrence around the globe. You, the men and women of the Mighty Eighth, epitomize the silent professionals that have kept this nation safe from outright attack, assured our allies and kept our enemies heads down as they know we can reach them anywhere on the globe, at our time and choosing, to strike in defense of this nation. Your quiet dedication is the backbone of the United States military and what allows us to do our job no matter where or when and it doesn't go unnoticed! Your silent dedication is what keeps the wheels of freedom turning everyday and for that I'm forever thankful for your service and sacrifice. On a personal note, it has been my distinct honor to serve as your Mighty Eighth command chief for the last 17 months. The Mighty Eighth has three great wings assigned, each with strong, steady leadership and great, dedicated and motivated Airmen - of all ranks. You can rightly be proud of your units and what you have accomplished over the past year, both at home and deployed. I wish each and every one of you a very happy and safe Thanksgiving.