Straight Talk: Memorial Day Published June 3, 2010 By Col. Charles F. Thompson 66th Air Base Wing commander HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. -- As you receive the Hansconian today, many of you may be enjoying the AFMC family day or you are getting ready to begin a long weekend of relaxation as we enjoy the warmer weather. This is a welcome break as we get for a busy summer filled with changes here on Hanscom and at the Electronic Systems Center. During this relaxing time, I encourage you and your family to take a moment and remember the fallen from our conflicts of the past as our fellow Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines and Coast Guardsmen fought to protect our country and freedom. Many of the communities surrounding Hanscom Air Force Base will be celebrating with memorials and parades to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice. A listing of these events was included in last week's issue (May 21) of the Hansconian for your review in case you and your family would like to participate. Thank you in advance, if you volunteered to represent your service during these events. If you are traveling this weekend, please be safe in your travels, especially on the highways. Lastly, I would like to thank all servicemembers and the families who support them for your service to our great nation as we continue to fight two wars in distant locations around the world. You are the elite few who have raised your hands and serve everyday to keep our nation strong. It is not an easy profession but we enjoy our freedoms because of those who have sacrificed in the past.