Community patriots salute Scott’s servicemembers Published May 13, 2009 By Col. Gary Goldstone 375th Airlift Wing commander SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. -- It was near the end of World War II; the relationship between Scott Air Force Base and the surrounding communities had become tense. False rumors that Scott's crime rate for serious offenses were higher than other nearby towns, causing local law enforcement to treat Scott's servicemen unfairly. Area business owners claimed servicemen illegally resold merchandise they purchased at the exchange, and the shortage of housing caused many troops to be charged unfair prices for rent. All of these claims led a national magazine to name Belleville "the worst soldier town in the U.S.A." That resulted in the base and community leaders creating a plan to find a solution to the problem. The "Belleville Plan," which evolved into what is today the Belle-Scott Committee, provided a forum for base and community leaders to meet, discuss issues, and find solutions to mutual problems. One of the Belleville Plan's first initiatives was an event called the G.I. Pal Dinner. Held in November 1950, the event brought servicemembers and the local community together. They shared an evening of entertainment and food. Most importantly, they began to build a rapport with one another that has lasted throughout the years. Tonight the Belle-Scott committee is once again hosting their annual dinner as a show of appreciation for not only Airmen, but also for our sister services as well. It is especially fitting since it falls on the eve of Armed Forces Day, a day that was also established 59 years ago in recognition of those who serve. The men and women who serve today have proven that they will go anywhere and do anything for this country - without question, without hesitation, without fail. They are our guardians of freedom; our defenders of democracy. Whether serving on the ground, in the air, or at sea; whether serving overseas or at home; active-duty, guard or reserve - their sacrifice and unflinching willingness to put service before self is truly extraordinary. Some may wonder whether today's young people have the right stuff or the fortitude to take on the world's toughest challenges. Well, we found out on that terrible morning Sept. 11, 2001, when our nation was attacked by shadowy enemies who killed thousands of innocent men, women and children. Our young military men and women answered the call in the finest tradition of the greatest generation, and today they remain at their posts, doing the hard work that freedom requires. It's not just our aircraft carriers or attack submarines, F-16 Fighting Falcons or our C-130s, and it's not our Bradley fighting vehicles or our Patriot missile systems that make our military strong. It is the strength, the dedication, and professionalism of our servicemembers. They reflect all that is good and noble about America and its people -decency, kindness, strength and goodwill. They are determined to do the right thing, to stay the course, to get the job done. The demands and challenges of military service are many, and no American soldier, sailor, Airman or Marine should ever be asked to face them without the complete support of the American public. Belle-Scott, and the entire Greater Scott Community, demonstrate their support in many ways both publically and privately. It makes a difference to those who bear the physical and mental hardships of serving their country while being separated from their families and friends. Our nation is fortunate to have caring, patriotic citizens. As long as that happens, our nation will always have young men and women who step forward and say: "here I am, send me, send me." May good thoughts be with all those in uniform, near and far, and may they and their families always be surrounded with the unyielding support of the American public.