Letter of Gratitude

To: Lieutenant Colonel Anthony D. Reed
OL CB, Hq SAC
Cheyenne Mt Complex, Ent AFB, CO 80912

Dear Colonel Reed:

It is a distinct honor for me, on the occasion of your retirement, to personally impart to you our country's expression of sincere gratitude for your dedicated military service over the past 20 years, 3 months and 3 days.

My review of your distinguished record reveals the depth and extent of your contribution to our national security and military effort during the turbulent "Cold War" years and our country's contribution to the free people of Southeast Asia. I proudly note that you have received numerous medals and awards, including the Distinguished Flying Cross, Bronze Star, Air Medal with ten Oak Leaf Clusters, Joint Service Commendation Medal and the Air Force Commendation Medal.

The almost 5000 flying hours, which includes, among other aircraft, approximately 1000 hours in the RF-101 and 500 combat hours in the 01-E in support of SEA operations have all added to the deterrence necessary to restrain our enemies and help maintain our freedom. The long periods of alert duty, restricted activity and family separation are among the hardships that you and your family willingly endured in order to meet the challenge. While your wife and children have neither medals nor awards for their acceptance of these unpleasant periods, they do have our deepest admiration for their support and sacrifices. We are extremely grateful for their devotion and joint dedication with you in responding to our country's needs.

As you know, the United States, as a major world power, is largely responsible for the security and peace of many nations. You have been a direct vital part of this effort, having flown as a reconnaissance pilot in Europe, and Emergency Actions Officer on board the National Emergency Airborne Command Post, and a combat tour in Southeast Asia. You may proudly consider yourself an honored citizen of the world, having earned this distinction by personal involvement. We shall continue to depend on you during your retirement for support in achieving our common objectives.

All of us with whom you have served are hopeful that your retirement years will be richly rewarding and enable you to fulfill many personal objectives that your commitment to the military may have delayed.

Please accept these few thoughts as a token of gratitude expressing your country's profound respect for you, Colleen, the children and the honorable manner in which you have borne responsibilities. Good luck and God Speed.

Sincerely,
Robert T. Herres, Colonel, USAF
Director, Command Control
Deputy Chief of Staff, Operations