Airmen must understand price of freedom

  • Published
  • By Lt. Col. Chris Van Hoof
  • 21st Airlift Squadron commander
TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  I was born and raised in the small farming town of Freedom, Wisconsin, and when asked, am proud to tell people where I am from.

While growing up, I often asked my dad how my hometown was named.

"According to the Freedom Historical Society, the town received its name when the first non-native settler to the area, James Andrew Jackson, an African-American, was asked if the town could be named after him," dad said. "Instead of naming the town Jackson, he suggested the name Freedom, because this was where he obtained his freedom." As they say, the rest is history.

As we approach our nation's Independence Day next week, I would like to reflect on a phrase I hear often, "the price of freedom." That phrase can mean different things to different people, but has a special meaning to those of us in the military. To many who have served or are still serving, the price of freedom can be described as paying the ultimate price.

As you enjoy freedom from work this Fourth of July with your family, grilling out, vacationing and watching fireworks, remember that thousands of Airmen, Soldiers and Sailors are currently deployed away from home, defending our freedom and the freedom of those in the countries where they are deployed. Take a moment to reflect on the price that has been and is currently being paid for the freedoms we enjoy in this amazing nation.

Many in our country today take their freedom for granted. As you're preparing to watch fireworks with your children, explain to them the cost of the freedoms they enjoy. Millions of people in countries across the globe do not enjoy these same freedoms. Just turn on the evening news or look at recent events in Africa, Iraq, Syria and Ukraine to name a few. Many in these places do not have the freedom to even step outside their home for fear that they or their family member's lives are in danger.

Two-hundred and thirty-eight years ago, the founders of our great country declared and fought for their freedom. Today, our nation is a beacon of freedom for all to see. I, for one, can't imagine being from anywhere else but the "land of the free and the home of the brave." I am proud that I have been a part of promoting freedom around the globe.

Thank you to the men and women who have served and are currently serving our country for defending my family's freedoms. Have an amazing, safe and "free" Independence Day.