Installation Commander' s Holiday Message Published Dec. 23, 2013 By Col. Kathryn L. Kolbe 75th Air Base Wing commander HILL AIR FORCE BASE, Utah -- This year has been one of many accomplishments and challenges for Hill Air Force Base. The Air Logistics Complex inducted the first F-35 aircraft for depot level maintenance; the 388th and 419th Fighter Wings received confirmation they will fly the first operational F-35 aircraft in the United States Air Force; Sunset Ridge Development Partners will begin construction this month on the next Falcon Hill Enhanced Use-Lease commercial project and the 75th Air Base Wing supported the deployment of hundreds of Airmen to support combatant commanders around the world. The professional and innovative workforce at Hill Air Force Base overcame the turbulence of sequestration and furloughs throughout this past year to provide world class capability with less cost. We will continue to strive toward cost effective readiness throughout Team Hill and look forward to the new year and its challenges. In the midst of this holiday season, we have so much to be thankful for as Americans and as Airmen. We enjoy so many freedoms that others around the world do not. We also realize the sacrifices of veterans past and present that make those freedoms possible. Take some time over the holidays to remember those who are deployed in harm's way, count your blessings, take care of yourself and be a good wingman to others around you. Many thanks to the dedicated, hard-working men and women of Hill Air Force Base and our tremendously supportive community partners. Merry Christmas, and Happy New Year Team Hill!