Honorary commander expresses thanks 16th MSG Published Sept. 15, 2006 By Catherine Dokey 16th MSG Honorary Commander HURLBURT FIELD, Fla -- On behalf of all the 2005-2006 Honorary Commanders, I would like to express our sincere thanks to Col. Norman Brozenick Jr. and all the 16th Special Operations Wing leadership and Airmen for their support of the Honorary Commanders and Command Chief Program. As the honorary commander for the 16th Mission Support Group, I had the opportunity to learn about the mission of the wing and tenant organizations, plus the organization, training and equipping of Air Force special operations forces. Three tours were arranged to visit the Medical Group, Mission Support Group and Operations Group. Throughout the year, I attended numerous ceremonies, quarterly award breakfasts and even had the opportunity to go to a USAF Special Operations School Dynamics of International Terrorism Demonstration. Two of my most memorable experiences were spending an afternoon with Col. Skip Day and the 16th Security Forces Squadron at the gun range, where I was an active participant in an awesome fire power demonstration. The second was flying on a MH-53 with the 20th Special Operations Squadron - what a bunch of warriors! I had an absolute blast and I appreciate the crew allowing me to fly with them and shoot the .50 cal and mini gun. The empty shell casings make a great conversation piece in my office. Overall, I was honored to see first-hand how the groups operated and how they get the job done! Although the missions are different, the Airmen are the same. Full of enthusiasm, professionalism and above all else, the obvious love of what they do. I would be remiss if I did not mention another "special" group of folks that I had the pleasure of getting to know this past year. To the men and women of the 720th Special Tactics Group and 23rd Special Tactics Squadron - thank you so much for the outstanding job that you do and to your families who support you. The emotional impact of being not only an honorary commander, but an American hit home the day I attended the memorial for Senior Airman Adam Servais on Aug. 25. Along with the special tactics families and Hurlburt Field, I too mourn the loss of this great American. I was truly touched by all the Airmen who came to honor Senior Airman Servais for the supreme sacrifice he made for his country. Please remember whether you are deployed or here at home there are many Americans like myself who fully support you and the mission. As I reflect on the past year many memories flood through my mind and all I can say to myself is, "Wow!" Being a part of Hurlburt Field has been an awe-inspiring experience and one I will never forget. Having a better understanding of the mission of the 16th MSG and the 16th SOW will assist me in being your advocate in the community. I am so proud that I live in a military community, and the men and women I have met at Hurlburt Field are a true testament to what Air Force special operations is all about. We live in the greatest country in the world and that is because of your service and the service of all the men and women who came before you. Our values and our way of life are preserved because of your dedication in serving our country. I thank each and every one of you for your unwavering commitment to the Global War on Terrorism and protecting our most precious gift - freedom. You truly are America's heroes; may God bless all of you and your families.