Laughlin Air Force Base, TX -- Laughlin Air Force Base, Texas has resumed flying operations after a debilitating thunderstorm wreaked havoc on much of the base’s infrastructure and aircraft, Feb. 22.
"When the United States Air Force suffers a blow, we dust ourselves off, then resume our mission," said Col. Thomas Shank, 47th Flying Training Wing commander, "Our Airmen are incredibly resilient and innovative professionals who step up every time they are called upon."
Both T-6A Texan II and T-38 Talon aircraft recommenced flying operations, Feb. 25. T-1 Jayhawk flying operations were able to resume immediately with the help of our neighbors at the 12th Flying Training Wing at Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph. The 12th Operations Group and Maintenance Directorate are providing support until Laughlin’s infrastructure can be restored to full mission capability.
“Adversity shows the true nature of a team, this team is an obvious winner,” said Shank. “It’s just great to see the Airmen within AETC step up like they have, to help us accomplish our mission.”
Laughlin’s infrastructure was not the sole recipient of the storm’s destruction. Despite debilitating damage to homes and vehicles, no injuries were sustained.
"It is absolutely remarkable that none of our Airmen or families got hurt," Shank said at a town hall, held at Anderson Hall on Laughlin, Feb. 24, "And that is a testament to Team XL's wingman-ship, resiliency and sense of community."
Shank invited Airmen, base employees, and community members to the town hall in an effort to quell concerns and inform the public on Team XL’s plan to move forward with recovery, and ultimately return to the mission.
“There’s no place I’d rather be right now,” said Shank. “And that is because of this team I have here in front of me. We’re right back in the fight because of you all.”