As my family prepares to celebrate our first Thanksgiving here in Beale AFB, Chris and I are struck by how blessed our airmen are by the support of this community. You have given generously to the men and women of Beale, and we are grateful. Your financial support of "Operation Warmheart" has gone directly to meeting some of the most basic needs of our airmen. Through generous donations, more than 400 families were able to benefit directly through Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter checks "cashed" at the base grocery store.

Your community leaders traveled to Washington, D.C., to speak to members of Congress about Beale's needs. They helped secure funding for a badly needed childcare center. The impact during these busy deployment times is vital as it greatly eases the burden placed on our members and their families.

Every day the Appeal-Democrat donates and delivers newspapers to our base residents. This has increased community awareness and involvement with the surrounding areas. In addition to the Appeal-Democrat's generosity, the Yuba-Sutter Chamber of Commerce is partnering with our base to start a welcome program, "Happy Landings," for the families of incoming Airmen. Both of these initiatives are the foundation of a great reciprocal relationship as our members learn about local shopping areas and employment opportunities.

Last, but not least, one of your younger community leaders recently donated six turkeys to Beale families that could not have otherwise afforded them. They will long remember this kindness.

These are a few tangible examples, but equally important are the intangible expressions of friendship. Airmen frequently recount being thanked for their service to our country or how their new neighbors welcomed them. They are also very thankful of the community support offered to their families while they are away on their deployments.

We asked for airmen volunteers to participate in the Veterans Day parade and were proud when nearly 300 airmen stepped forward to march in formation on their "day off." All were greatly affirmed by the applause and cheers as we marched down D Street in Marysville. Especially notable were all the families who chose to bring their children. It is my view that good citizenship is a learned behavior. The number of parents teaching their children the value of service speaks well of this community, and provides great promise for the next generation of Yuba/Sutter citizens.

We are thankful for your support.

Brigadier General Bob Otto

Commander, 9 Reconnaissance Wing

Beale Air Force Base