When Laughlin is in my rearview mirror... Published Nov. 3, 2006 By Lt. Col. Lori Lavezzi 47th Mission Support Squadron LAUGHLIN AFB, TEXAS -- It is hard for me to believe, but I am rapidly closing in on my final days here at Laughlin. It seems like just yesterday, Col. Teresa Daniell handed me the flag of the most "Excellent" 47th Mission Support Squadron. I remember saying to the squadron my focus would be providing the personal touch for our customers and having fun while we do it. I also remember thanking my husband for supporting me from afar as he took the flag for the 9th Maintenance Operations Squadron at Beale Air Force Base, Calif., that same day. It has been an amazing two years! Although I can't in all honesty say every single moment has been fun, I can say the people here at Laughlin and in the Del Rio community make me proud to serve. As I approach my final few days in command, I continue to flash back to moments that are just unforgettable for me. The first of those moments was saying farewell to the first 10-man Third Country National Escort Team we deployed. I will never forget the bus pulling out of the Fiesta Center parking lot with Staff Sgt. Fong hanging out the window saying "see you soon" to the large crowd gathered to send them off. I also remember my promotion party. That was the first time I brought in cheesecakes from Cheesecake Factory...that of course, became a squadron tradition. I learned then never to start something you aren't willing to continue! I remember the long days, late nights, and short weekends as we prepared for the Operational Readiness Inspection. I also remember signing about a million appointment letters just hours before the inspectors arrived. But most vividly, I remember sitting in Anderson Hall as we cheered for the squadrons who did well and consoled those who did not. I also remember coming home to Laughlin after my Iraq deployment. The weather wasn't exactly cooperating, so instead of posting the "welcome home" sign in my yard on base, Robert Wade was standing there in the drizzle holding it as we drove up. Another fond memory is Adventure Race 2006! The 47th MSS struggled to put together one team in 2005, but fielded three teams in 2006. Our Desk Jockey Warrior Red "Dream Team" ran an amazing race and came in 10th. They then waited over an hour to cheer on our other two teams as we crossed the finish line. Although they took a lot of razzing for coming in last, we had fun the whole way. Finally, I would like to add just a few of the many things I will miss when Laughlin is in my rearview mirror; Living on base and being able to walk home from Club XL; Going to the movies or a restaurant and running into at least two or three people I know to include the Superintendent of the School District and the President of the Military Affairs Association; Knowing that when someone from the MSS needs something, the Airmen, civilians, and contractors from other squadrons will find a way to make it happen; Shopping in Acuna and eating at Manuel's; Running to "Reveille" in the morning and listening to "Taps" every evening; The constant grief and constant support my fellow squadron commanders provide; The fantastic Laughlin First Sergeants! Most of all, I will miss the fabulous MSS SNCOs and each and every member of the most "Excellent" MSS. Continue to have fun while you do the best you can to provide the personal touch through the next few years of dynamic change. You matter! It has been a pleasure to serve with you. MSS...serving the best!