Remembering Those Who Served Before Us Published Nov. 7, 2012 By By Brig. Gen. Anthony J. Cotton Commander, 45th Space Wing PATRICK AFB, Fla. -- Every November 11th, our great nation celebrates the tremendous men and women who have served in the Armed Forces. As we observe Veterans Day this Sunday, remember their sacrifices and continue to be inspired by their service. This Veterans Day, we should especially remember those Americans who are currently in harm' s way. We should recognize them, pray for them, and thank them for their service. When was the last time you thanked a veteran for his or her service? I encourage you to do so this Veterans Day at any of the venues from around the local community. Treat Veterans Day as a true day to remember and not "just another day off." Freedom is not free. On November 1st, the Commander-in-Chief signed a proclamation designating November as Military Family Month. Before signing, he lauded the challenges faced by both spouses and children of our military service members. "With loved ones serving far from home, military spouses take on the work of two. Their children show courage and resilience as they move from base to base, school to school, home to home," said the President. So while you are thanking a veteran, give their spouse and children a hug and tell them how much they mean to you, too. They deserve our recognition and our support; they give way more than anyone can ask for. Speaking of recognition, I had the honor on Tuesday of presenting the Major General L. Dean Fox Award to Lt. Col. Riordan-Smith, Commander, 45th Civil Engineer Squadron, during her Commander's Call. This award is given to the senior military manager of a CE unit for superior performance. In addition, I was able to congratulate the entire unit on winning 14 out of 18 awards at Air Force Space Command! This was an all-time record for any unit in the Command. Congratulations to our CE warriors! In closing, we want to say thank you to all who made the Air Force Ball such a success last Friday: the Air Force Ball Committee chairs, 1st Lt Roberto Cornier, 45th Security Forces Squadron, and 2d Lt Laura Buster, 45th Logistics Readiness Squadron; the 45th Space Wing First Sergeants Council; the Chiefs Group; Top Three; and Mrs. Nancy Trainer and Mrs. Billie Jean Ludwick, 45th Space Wing Protocol Office. Our guest speaker, the Honorable James R. Clapper, Director of National Intelligence, as well as all in attendance, were very impressed with the extraordinary event. Great job to each and every one of you. Remember to stay safe. Keep pushing, Sharks!