Laughlin XLer: Capt. Melvin Murphrey, 434th FTS

Capt. Melvin Murphrey III, 434th Flying Training Squadron P Flight assistant flight commander, poses with Col. Brian Hastings, 47th Flying Training Wing commander, and Chief Master Sgt. Garry Berry, 47th FTW command chief, after being presented the XLer of the week award here Aug. 14, 2013. The XLer is a weekly award chosen by wing leadership and given to those who consistently make outstanding contributions to Laughlin and their unit. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman John D. Partlow)

Laughlin XLer: Capt. Melvin Murphrey, 434th FTS

Published Aug. 21, 2013
By 47th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs

LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Job title and unit: 434th Flying Training Squadron, P Flight assistant flight commander

Why he XLed: He responded to two in-flight emergencies as the flightline safety officer on two tours and amassed 10 events in one week. He oversaw more than 200 aircraft movements and led four instructor pilots and 15 student pilots while his commander was on leave. He also flew five flights and devoted four hours to emergency procedures and general knowledge to help struggling student pilots.

Hometown: Trenton, N.C.

Family: A Dutch Shepherd named Gretchen

Time at Laughlin: Four years, three months

Time in military/civil service: Four years, three months

Greatest accomplishment: Completing pilot training

Hobbies: Hunting, running, guitar and piano

Bad habit: Fast food

Favorite movies: The Gladiator, Act of Valor and Saving Private Ryan

If you could spend one hour with any person, who would it be and why: C.S. Lewis, because he saw the world for what it is: organic and spiritual, and he conveyed that understanding in an engaging way.