161 ARW Commemorates 9/11 Published Sept. 11, 2011 By Staff Sgt. Michael Matkin 161 ARW Public Affairs Phoenix Sky Harbor Air National Guard Base -- Today, all over the Nation, people are remembering the events of 9/11 - some are reflecting with family and friends, while others have taken a few moments to reflect and ponder during their work day. Servicemembers here stood shoulder-to-shoulder reflecting on the events and honoring those who lost their lives. The service, which was presented by the wing chaplains, included song, scripture reading and a moment of silence. Lt. Col. Mike Sproul, 161st ARW chaplain, said it was important to hold a memorial not only to give servicemembers time to reflect and morn, but also because "by remembering our past and our heroes, it helps us move forward. They give us examples of what we should be like." Staff Sgt. John Baltz, 161st ARW chaplain assistant, agreed saying, "It's good to reflect on the events so we know where we are coming from as a country and where we are going." The events of 9/11 affected the lives of countless people across the country and beyond. In a message to Airmen of the U.S. Air Force, Secretary of the Air Force Michael Donley, Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Norton Schwartz and Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force James Roy issued the following message: "We sincerely thank you and your families for what you have done for your country to date, and thank you in advance for bravely facing our future challenges. Please take a moment this day to reflect on the tragic losses of Sept. 11, 2001, as well as the losses and wounds that we have suffered in our campaign to maintain security for our Nation since that fateful day. Today, we also remember the families and friends of the lost and wounded, who bear the heaviest burden, whose loneliness we seek to ease, and whose sacrifice we hold in the highest regard."