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President wishes Happy Thanksgiving to Bagram Airman

  • Published
  • By Capt. Michael Meridith
  • 455th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs
BAGRAM AIR BASE, Afghanistan --  It's not every day that an Airman can pick up the phone and talk to his commander in chief, but for one Bagram Airman that day was today. 

Airman 1st Class Chris Ericksen, a fuel distribution systems operator deployed from Minot Air Force Base, N.D., to the 455th Air Expeditionary Wing here, received a Thanksgiving Day call from President George W. Bush. 

After wishing him a happy holiday, the president expressed appreciation for Airman Ericksen's service. Upon learning that the Sioux Falls, S.D., native hadn't had his Thanksgiving meal yet, the president even offered to have some turkey "on his behalf." 

"I like mine with gravy on the top, Mr. President," Airman Ericksen replied. 

After a brief conversation, Airman Ericksen asked the president if there was anything he wanted to say to all of the service members on Bagram Air Base. 

"I wish you and all the folks you're with a happy Thanksgiving Day," the president said. "Good luck to you in Afghanistan - it's an important mission." 

Airman Ericksen was notified about two weeks ago that he would be receiving the call, but admitted to being surprised at first. "I didn't think I would be lucky enough to be chosen," he said. 

"Although he has only been in the Air Force for about 14 months, his work
ethic, his willingness to help others and take on leadership responsibilities really sets him apart. He is an all-around great Airman," said Senior Master Sgt. Dean Abbott, the 455th Fuels Management Flight Superintendent. 

The call, though short, meant a lot to Airman Ericksen. "It was definitely an honor," he said. "And it's good to know how much the president respects what we're doing."