In our Air Force's 61-year history, Airmen repeatedly have been called upon to defend the cause of freedom in the air and on unfamiliar terrain around the world. Whatever the conflict, natural disaster or crisis, Airmen have answered the call and performed their missions with incredible courage and distinction. Their consistent example of excellence and dedication is our treasured heritage.

This table, set for one, is small, symbolizing the frailty of one prisoner, alone against his or her suppressors. The single red rose in the vase signifies the blood they many have shed in sacrifice to ensure the freedom of our beloved United States of America. The rose also reminds us of the family and friends of our missing comrades who keep the faith, while awaiting their return. Senior Airman Amanda Carter, 66th Medical Operations Squadron dental technician at Hanscom Air Force Base, Mass., leads a ceremony honoring prisoners of war and servicemembers missing in action. Such ceremonies are held before many official base events to honor and remember fallen comrades. National POW/MIA Day is Sept. 19. (U

Servicemembers from the Combined Security Transition Command-Afghanistan honored the 61st anniversary of the Air Force Sept. 18 during a ceremony at Camp Eggers here.

Tech. Sgt. Earl Covel Jr. of Fort Lewis, Wash., is one of the 12 Outstanding Airmen for 2008. (U.S. Air Force photo)

Every now and then, there is a very specific event that burns deeply into people's memories, and they always remember exactly where they were and what they were doing at that moment.

A New York City police officer currently deployed at a Southwest Asia air base added a touch of blue to the wing's Patriot Day ceremony here Sept. 11 by donating her police uniform.

The Pentagon Memorial was dedicated and opened to the public in a solemn ceremony before thousands of servicemembers and civilians Sept. 11 here.

Airmen of the 386th Air Expeditionary Wing gathered with coalition forces and sister servicemembers at sunrise Sept. 11 on the grounds of a newly constructed memorial for a Sept. 11 Remembrance Ceremony here.

This week's Airman's Roll Call focuses on the unveiling of the Pentagon Memorial, a lasting tribute to those who died in the attack there on Sept. 11, 2001.

In the morning hours of Sept. 11, 2001, Master Sgt. Jennifer Yamnicky's father, John, boarded American Airlines Flight 77 out of Dulles International Airport.