Yesterday and Today: Enabling Freedom through Respect, Accountability and Common Sense Published July 3, 2013 By Col. Johnny Roscoe 15th Wing commander JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii -- Today is a day for celebration; not only for the birth of our country, but also for the establishment of the structure that would eventually evolve into your United States Air Force. On this great day for America, I defer to the words of a great American, John Wayne: "Don't pick a fight, but if you find yourself in one I suggest you make sure you win," and in America winning is in our blood! The United States has fielded forces against tyranny for the past 237 years, and every day we put on our uniforms this noble tradition continues to thrive. The birth certificate of our country, the Declaration of Independence, boldly drew a line against tyranny and delivered the dawn of a new era of freedom. Just as thirteen colonies grew to 50 strong states, and one mighty nation, so too, has our military evolved from a disorderly militia into the most professional fighting force on the planet. Though the guiding principles we operate on locally may sound more Spartan than the masterpiece created by our country's Founding Fathers, the spirit that they encompass is the same: All men are created equal (respect) Governments derive their powers from the consent of the governed (accountability) We hold these truths to be self-evident (common sense) Whether you are the pointy end of the spear, deliver reinforcements and supplies, or enable any of the above, members of the 15th Wing are an integral part of the engine that will enable America to celebrate the 4th of July for many years to come. On this day, and every day, I am proud of what it means to be an American and to carry on the legacy of defending Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness.