Those who understand this are the heart and soul of our Air Force. And, I must include our retirees. They are the people who laid the foundation for the Air Force today, just as those serving today are providing the foundation for tomorrow. Air Force retirees' vision, sacrifice, and leadership built the world's premier air and space force. But, this broad definition of the Air Force didn't really start with me.
Air power is a composite of aircrews, maintainers, suppliers, and industry.
I like that description, It reminds me that our Air Force is in fact a mosaic of talented and skilled individuals. But, the Air Force does not act alone. No single service can. We function best when we are enthusiastic and active partners on the joint team. I would suggest to you that my description of the Air Force as a mosaic applies as well to the Army, Navy, Coast Guard, and Marines.