LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- As a thank you for the outstanding support of Del Rio and the surrounding community, Laughlin Air Force Base is hosting an open house May 12, 2018.
The open house will be headlined by the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds demonstration team and will feature many other premiere civilian and military acts from across the nation.
Laughlin received the good news that the base was selected to host the Thunderbirds during the International Council of Air Shows Convention in December.
“It’s been ten years since our last open house, and the entire Laughlin team is excited to open our doors to our partners in the community,” said Maj. David Brandt, open house director. “Our showcase of heritage, airpower and friendship promises to be truly spectacular.”
Del Rio and Laughlin Air Force Base have a long and distinguished history, dating back to World War II when the base was first used as a pilot training post for the U.S. Army. Later, the base was also home to the U-2 “Dragon Lady” during the Cold War.
Laughlin Air Force Base now conducts specialized undergraduate pilot training for the United States Air Force, Air Force Reserve, Air National Guard and allied nation air forces utilizing the T-6A Texan II, T-38C Talon and T-1A Jayhawk aircraft.
“Our community has always provided outstanding support for Laughlin’s mission – graduating the world’s best military pilots, deploying mission-ready warriors and developing professional, resilient and innovative Airmen,” said Col. Thomas Shank, 47th Flying Training Wing commander. “Most notably, Del Rio and Val Verde County recently secured funding for several major base infrastructure and sustainment projects, which will help ensure Laughlin’s continued success as the premier pilot training base in the United States Air Force."