SecDef thanks service members during first official KAF visit

Photo By Staff Sgt. Whitney Amstutz | Secretary of Defense, the Hon. Ashton Carter, boards an aircraft prior to departure following a visit to Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan Feb. 22, 2015. Having sworn in only five days prior, the trip was Carter’s first official visit to Afghanistan as defense secretary, and his first opportunity to convey his appreciation to service members fulfilling the Resolute Support Mission downrange. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Whitney Amstutz/released)  

KANDAHAR AIRFIELD, AFGHANISTAN

02.22.2015

Story by Staff Sgt. Whitney Amstutz 

455th Air Expeditionary Wing   

KANDAHAR AIRFIELD, Afghanistan - During his first week on the job, newly sworn in Secretary of Defense, the Hon. Ashton Carter, traveled to Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan, Feb. 22 to thank troops for their dedication to the Resolute Support Mission and acknowledge the strides they, in conjunction with their coalition and Afghan partners, have made toward the betterment of the region.

In addition to personally recognizing and shaking the hand of every service member present, Carter fielded questions from Airmen, Soldiers and Marines on topics ranging from possible amendments to retirement policy, to sequestration and force shaping.

Throughout the day, Carter reiterated his commitment to those who wear the uniform, expressing his personal gratitude as well as extending thanks on behalf of the Department of Defense and the citizens of the United States.

“You're what I wake up to every morning,” Carter said. “I never forget for one minute that you're here and what you're doing, the sacrifice that being here entails and the risk that it entails for you.”

• Date Taken: 02.22.2015
• Date Posted: 02.25.2015 23:44
• Story ID: 155428
• Location: KANDAHAR AIRFIELD, AF