Lincoln left lasting impression on nation

  • Published
  • By Col. Mark Dillon
  • 60th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  As Americans, we all know the legendary speech that starts, "Four score and seven years ago ..." and for good reason. 
The Gettysburg Address helped galvanize the spirit of our country, which at the time, was divided by war. Spoken by President Abraham Lincoln four-months prior to the end of our Civil War, the three-minute Soldiers' National Cemetery dedication speech is considered one of the greatest in American history. Short, yet powerful, the Gettysburg Address and its author have made a lasting impression upon our nation. 

President Lincoln's life story is the embodiment of the American dream. From humble beginnings, his hard work, diligent preparation and focused dedication elevated him to the presidency. While serving in this position, he strived to provide freedom for all Americans. His actions and leadership ensured our founding fathers' nation "conceived in liberty" survived the test of civil war. 

There is a reason President Lincoln remains such an influential figure for leaders across the world -- he was an exemplary leader! More than 16,000 books have been written recounting his life and the qualities he possessed. 

His storied leadership qualities successfully rallied our nation through its greatest crisis, and inspired countless leaders such as Presidents Roosevelt, Truman and Kennedy and Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. President Lincoln's leadership to our nation could have not been timelier. 

During the Civil War, our sixteenth President truly defined the role of Commander-in-Chief. With the war beginning less than one month after his inauguration, President Lincoln took immediate action to energize the Union Army and Navy. Amazingly, he did so without any formal military training or experience. 

A natural strategist, President Lincoln shaped military policy through exhaustive study, reflective responsibility and effective communication. His aggressive military action, leadership and vision as CINC preserved our United States of America. 

Your faithful service as American Airmen ensure our "government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the Earth," and brings President Lincoln's legacy of freedom to all those who desire it. You have answered his call to aspire. As you celebrate Presidents Day, take some time to reflect upon the leadership of our CINCs. 

Time permitting, I strongly recommend you take some time to read more about President Abraham Lincoln. Enjoy your much deserved time with family and friends. Thank you for your service to this great nation. Have a safe and enjoyable Presidents Day 2009!