Laughlin's frequent flyer

Published Aug. 15, 2013
By Airman 1st Class Jimmie D. Pike
47th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs

LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Part of Laughlin's mission is to graduate the world's best pilots, but it is also home to some of the greatest pilots. One of Laughlin's own recently completed flying 3,000 hours in the T-38 Talon jet trainer here at Laughlin July 31.

Lt. Col. Timothy Webster, 96th Flying Training Squadron instructor pilot, reached the 3,000 hour milestone during a flight with a Specialized Undergraduate Pilot Training student. Once on the ground he was ready to break the news to his fellow pilots but was beat to the punch. Upon arriving at his squadron, he was met with streams of water and a crowd of fellow pilots waiting to congratulate him on his achievement.

"I was tracking my flying hours the last few days so when I reached 3,000 I could break the news to everyone," said Webster. "I had no idea they were tracking my hours for a few weeks and planning something for when I came back down."

Webster commissioned in 1988 in the Air Force Reserve and began his active duty career in April 1989 as a student pilot.

"I've always wanted to fly; it is interesting and not many people get to do it," said Webster. "The majority my flying hours have come from flying sorties for the student training mission here at Laughlin."

Webster has a lot of experience in the sky, which he passes on to his students and fellow instructors.

"Flying 3,000 hours in the T-38 is a major accomplishment; only a few have attained it," said Lt. Col. William Lee, 96th Flying Training Squadron functional check flight chief. "With his experience and professionalism, Lt. Col. Webster always sets the example for both students and fellow instructors to follow."