Hagel Calls Service Members on Thanksgiving to Express Gratitude

DoD News, Defense Media Activity WASHINGTON, Nov. 27, 2014 - Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel today called service members taking part in operations around the world to thank them for their service and sacrifice, and to wish them a Happy Thanksgiving, according to a DoD press release. "Secretary Hagel expressed his appreciation for their service in defending the United States, and supporting our allies and partners," the release stated. "In each of the calls, Secretary Hagel noted that he knows how difficult it is to be away from home on this holiday and thanked the Service members and their families for their sacrifice for the nation." Hagel spoke with representatives from each military service, including:   Air Force Capt. Derek Van De Wege, 27, of Federal Way, Wash., who is a C-17 aircraft commander at Ali Al Salem Air Base in Kuwait.  He has flown airdrop missions in support of Inherent Resolve over Iraq, delivering food, water and supplies.     Marine Corps Sgt. Matthew S. Ohler, 24, of Rockwood, Penn., who is serving in Monrovia, Liberia, with the Special-Purpose Marine AirGround Task Force Crisis Response Africa as an MV-22B Osprey airframes mechanic.  Ohler has maintained the hydraulic and composite systems for the four aircraft assigned to the unit as part of Operation United Assistance.  Army First Lt. Darrel J. Guthrie II, 24, of Lubbock, Texas, a light infantry platoon Leader serving in Jalalabad, Afghanistan. Guthrie helped neutralize an attack on his patrol while providing security for a key leader engagement.   Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Ruddana P. Skipper, 24, of Riviera Beach, Fla., who is serving aboard the U.S.S. O'Kane as part of a 9-month deployment in the Arabian Gulf.  Skipper leads 15 sailors in the operation of over 500 pieces of communication and network equipment and was selected as her ship's junior sailor of the year.