Honoring those who served before us Published May 23, 2007 By Chief Master Sgt. Michael Williams 60th Air Mobility Wing command chief TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- It's Memorial Day weekend and most of you are the beneficiary of a four-day weekend. For those of you who don't know, Memorial Day was originally called Decoration Day; a day of remembrance of those who died in the service of our great nation. In fact, Gen. John Logan, commander of the Grand Army of the Republic, officially proclaimed Memorial Day on May 5, 1868. Nevertheless, there are many stories as to its actual beginnings; from the women in the South decorating graves before the end of the Civil War to spontaneous gathering of people to honor the dead from the war in the 1860's. Regardless of how it was derived, it's appropriate we pause to recognize those that dedicated their lives to our great nation...and those that paid the ultimate sacrifice to ensure we are able to enjoy the freedoms they so proudly preserved. Those same freedoms we now protect and defend. So for me, Memorial Day is a time for reflection and a time for fellowship with family and friends. Reflecting on why we serve, what it means to serve our great nation and a celebration in remembrance of our fallen comrades. We must also not forget there are civilians that have not worn the uniform, but have bought and paid for our freedoms and liberties with their lives as well. So as you fire up the grills with Old Glory flying in the wind beneath the sun and the aroma of the barbecue in the air, remember those pioneers that paved the way for us. This weekend the weather is projected to be nice, which is usually the catalyst for parties, the barbecuing and taking pleasure in an ice cold beverage...man that sounds great. However, as you partake in your libation please remember you are an Airman in the United States Air Force, so enjoy yourself but do it safely and responsibly. If you are attending a party; have a plan not to drive, stick to your plan and don't drink and drive. If you are hosting a party, you are responsible for everyone's well-being during the event, and making sure no one drinks and drives...that's what a wingman does! As wingmen we sometimes have to make tough choices and there are times when that's a challenge. But it's imperative we conjure up the courage to make the right call in taking care of our fellow Airmen...especially during this weekend when there is sure to be an increase in the intake of alcoholic beverages. Alcohol impacts everyone differently and it's well documented as the reason for domestic violence, sexual assault, domestic disturbance, rape and many, many others. We must make responsible choices and not place ourselves in compromising positions. This should be standard practice for Airmen. As we reflect this weekend on this duty we volunteered for and pay homage to our fallen comrades, take care of one another and make sure Travis is incident free this Memorial Day weekend. Let Old Glory fly in the wind, fire up the grills and have a great Memorial Day weekend. As always be safe, make responsible choices and I will see you around campus.