My grandson Karl turns 19 today. It's a special day for a guy who is spending it near the completion of his basic training in the United States Space Force. I'm grateful for the man that he has become and will continue to become.
Karl, we couldn't be prouder of you. Every challenge you face today is building the amazing future we can't wait to see. You've already given us the best gift: your courage. The uniform you're wearing is a symbol of incredible strength and dedication. Keep your head up, drive on, and know your family is counting down the minutes until we see you again.
Established in 2019, the USSF plays a critical role in securing the nation's interests in, from, and to space. Guardians, as recruits are called from day one, contribute to diverse missions that impact daily life — from providing GPS navigation capabilities to manning America's missile warning systems. The Space Force's primary objective is to prepare for combat readiness and foster cooperation with allies, all while strengthening the Guardian spirit which is part of the warrior ethos.
Happy birthday, Karl. You were born for this. Semper Supra.
