14th FTW CC and CCC wish BLAZE Team happy holidays Published Dec. 17, 2009 By Senior Airman Jacob Corbin 14th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs COLUMBUS AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- Recently, the 14th Flying Training Wing commander and command chief released a video expressing their wishes for a happy and safe holiday season. The video can be viewed here. "(My wife) Leslie and I want to wish and thank each and every Airman, civilian, contractor and community supporter a very happy holiday season," said Col. Roger Watkins, 14th FTW commander. "As we pause for our holiday break, I ask that you take a few moments to think about our over 60 deployed BLAZE Team members and their families," Colonel Watkins continued. "It is through their service and sacrifice that we all have the freedom to celebrate the holiday season" Colonel Watkins said the holiday season is a great time to spend time with families and loved ones, while reflecting on what is most important. The colonel closed out his portion of the message emphasizing safety over the season. "Safety never takes a break," Colonel Watkins said. "I ask each of you, as you celebrate the holiday season, to think before you act. We need each and every BLAZE Team member to come back and have an even better 2010." The video also features footage of the last year from around Columbus AFB. Chief Master Sgt. Richard Brackett, 14th FTW command chief, also extended his hopes for a happy holiday season to the BLAZE Team and its supporters. "My wife Debbie and I would like to say a special thank you to all our BLAZE Team members both here at home and deployed to many locations all around the world," he said. "You play a very important role in ensuring the United States remains the strongest nation in the world today." The chief also thanked the BLAZE Team for their sacrifices and wished them a happy and safe holiday.