The holiday season is a great opportunity to give thanks for the many blessings we have, reflect on our accomplishments of the past year, and look forward to the coming year. For the Command, it highlights the important work we did together in the past year to support the security interests of our Nation and in helping build self-sustaining security and stability in Africa.

Together with family, friends, and teammates and in the communities we live or areas we serve, take a moment to enjoy this season and recharge and refresh, so we remain ready to address the challenges and take advantage of the opportunities that lie before us.

Also, as you celebrate, please take a moment to remember those who are not able to enjoy the holidays with their families this year, both in Africa and around the world on deployments away from home. May they be successful in their missions and all come home safely.

Joyce and I wish each of you the very best for this season, and a healthy, safe and happy 2011!

Happy Holidays!

General Kip Ward
Commander, U.S. Africa Command

Click here for a New Year's Message from General and Mrs. Ward