The following is a joint message from Secretary of the Air Force Dr. James G. Roche and Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. John P. Jumper:

“It was the most significant 12 seconds of the last 100 years.

“On Dec. 17, 1903, two bicycle builders from Ohio, Orville and Wilbur Wright, launched the world on a path to the heavens when their rudimentary airplane of wire, wood and canvas wings lifted off a windy, grassy hill at Kitty Hawk (N.C.).

“Since their marvelous achievement, aviation has enabled our expansion, enhanced our commerce and expanded our communication.

“Military aviation developed quickly after that first flight. The names and exploits of our airpower pioneers are melded into our nation's history: Rickenbacker, Mitchell, Doolittle, Davis, Cochran and Yeager, to name just a few.

“While our past is storied, our present and future remain as boundless and adventurous as the Wright Brothers' dream. Because of our great airmen in today's Air Force, we have developed, operated and exploited advanced weapons systems and technologies -- from sensors and aircraft to lasers and satellites -- enabling us to own the ultimate high ground and dominate any battlespace.

“The centennial of flight is as much about our future as it is about our past. We commend you for all that you do every day to promote this heritage and provide our nation with the finest air and space force in the world. We're proud to serve along side you as we continue to discover ways to slip the surly bonds and deliver peace and freedom for our nation.”

FMI: www.af.mil