ASA(ALT) Family,
On Monday, February 18th, our nation will observe Presidents' Day, a Federal
holiday that honors the leadership and achievements of all who have held
America's highest elected office. U.S. Presidents historically have provided
decisive leadership in times of crisis and have shaped important world
events. We especially honor the rich legacies of Presidents Washington and
Lincoln whose birthdays we celebrate this month.
As our first President, George Washington gave strength and legitimacy to
our young democracy while ensuring the newly formed Federal government
remained accountable to the American people. He helped shape the 13 colonies
into a nation dedicated to liberty and justice for all. More than 70 years
later, President Abraham Lincoln sought to unite America behind these same
fundamental values. Through the extraordinary hardship and sacrifice of the
Civil War, he remained devoted to freedom and equality and to preserving our
Union. As the Civil War ended, President Lincoln demonstrated remarkable
compassion and determination to bind up our nation's wounds and restore
dignity to all people.
Coming from diverse backgrounds and geographical regions, each of our 44
Presidents has answered the call to duty and helped to lead a fledgling
nation to the greatest military power on earth. As we remember those who
served as our Commanders-in-Chief, let us also remember the men and women
who serve in our Armed Forces today, especially those in harm's way. Let us
reaffirm our commitment to do all we can to ensure their success on the
battlefield and safe return home. As Secretary Panetta told military and
civilian employees in the Pentagon Courtyard last Tuesday, "The work you do
every day has a direct impact on our men and women who raise their right
hand and take an oath to put their lives on the line for this country. It
has a direct impact on the security of our country, and it has a direct
impact on the security of the world."
Best,
HON. Heidi Shyu
Assistant Secretary of the Army
(Acquisition, Logistics & Technology)
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