Celebrate a spirit of gratitude Published March 16, 2007 By Col. Rick Martin 305th AMW commander MCGUIRE AIR FORCE BASE, NJ. -- Be thankful! During temporary duty in San Antonio this week, I had the privilege of visiting patients at Brooke Army Medical Center -- one of the world's leading care centers for burn victims. It was a visit I won't forget! Why? Because I had the opportunity to visit our wounded heroes from Iraq and Afghanistan who display tremendous personal courage and fortitude. As I looked each of them in the eye, I was overcome with a spirit of gratitude -- gratitude for their courage to serve, for their sacrifice, for their character to endure difficult circumstances. I also witnessed their appreciation for the tremendous care they receive, passion in serving their country and pride in the camaraderie of being in the U.S military. It was also a very present reminder that my occasional hurts and frustrations pale in comparison to the challenges these great warriors are dealing with every day. It was a reminder that the support from fellow service members and our families is critical to our success as a military team. Thanks to all who serve and the medical professionals who care for us! As an ombudsman at McGuire for those who are ill or injured, please let me know if there's anything we can do to better care for our Airman, their families, and our joint brothers and sisters. While our Air Force system of support has proven effective, we cannot afford to be complacent. I pledge to keep this a priority and work with our AF Medical Service professionals to provide the best care possible. I would also like to express my heartfelt appreciation for the opportunity to serve at McGuire and partner with the warriors of the 621st Contingency Response Wing. The "Can Do" wing is proud to team up with the 621st CRW as they demonstrate their warrior pride and readiness during this week's Operational Readiness Inspection. We look forward to celebrating a successful completion of the ORI next week! Speaking of pride, I'd like everyone at McGuire to dedicate the week of March 19 to spring clean up -- inside and outside. Let's tidy our closets and workspaces, and ensure the areas surrounding our buildings and homes represent the pride of McGuire! I know Maj. Gen. and Mrs. Jim Hawkins, our 18th Air Force commander, and numerous other visitors next week, will see the pride of McGuire in our actions as well as our appearance! Thanks for showing the pride of McGuire and thanks for celebrating a spirit of gratitude for our Airmen and their families! Can Do!