General Johnson offers ESC holiday message Published Dec. 15, 2006 By Lt. Gen. Chuck Johnson Electronic Systems Center commander Hanscom AFB -- To the Men and Women of the Electronic Systems Center Team: Marilee and I want to wish all of you and your families a happy and joyous holiday season. The coming weeks are a wonderful time of the year, as we gather together with our friends and family to celebrate the holiday season and enjoy our rich and diverse cultural traditions. Here, it is especially nice this time of year, as the weather transforms our towns and neighborhoods into winter wonderland scenes worthy of Currier and Ives. As we enjoy our holiday celebrations with family members and renew old friendships, we must never forget our brave Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines who are serving in harm's way across the globe, defending our freedom and fulfilling our hope for a better and more peaceful world. They and their families are making incredible, selfless sacrifices for our country and our great way of life. This year, the holiday season will be a difficult time for them, so if you know a family of a deployed member, I encourage you to invite that family into the warmth of your home to join your holiday celebration. Also, let's not forget to keep these brave men and women who are deployed and away from their families in our prayers. This can be a dangerous time of the year, as many of us travel hundreds or even thousands of miles to be with our loved ones. Take every precaution as you prepare for your journey. Be certain your car is ready for a long drive, and get plenty of rest before you depart. Also, don't drink and drive, now or at any other time of year, and don't let others do so, either. Your spirit of professionalism and dedication over the past year has made a real difference in our world as we provide our warfighters with the very best command and control and information systems. We've had a great 2006, but there is much more to do in the coming year. Let's make the most of this opportunity to relax and enjoy the holidays, and come back to work refreshed and ready to tackle the challenges ahead. Again, Marilee and I offer our warmest wishes for a wonderful holiday season and a happy and prosperous new year.