Laughlin XLer – 1st Lt. Matthew Fritzinger, 87th Flying Training Squadron

First Lt. Matthew Fritzinger, 87th Flying Training Squadron instructor pilot, poses with Col. Tom Murphy, 47th Flying Training Wing commander, and Chief Master Sgt. Garry Berry, 47th FTW command chief, after being presented the XLer of the week award at Laughlin Air Force Base, Texas, Sept. 12, 2012. 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/Airman 1st Class Nathan Maysonet)

Laughlin XLer - 1st Lt. Matthew Fritzinger, 87th Flying Training Squadron

Published Oct. 2, 2012
47th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs

LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Job title and unit: 87th Flying Training Squadron instructor pilot

Why he XLed: He was the 47th Flying Training Wing spouse crud tournament lead and flawlessly planned and executed the event as a morale boost prior to the Consolidated Unit Inspection. He is an invaluable runway supervisory unit controller and has been key in recovering two emergency aircraft with gear malfunctions and generator failures, saving $6.5 million in assets. Led 135 flying events and ran class 12-14's assignment drop in flight commander's absence. He is currently enrolled in two master's classes and has been voted best IP by class 12-14.

Hometown: San Antonio, Texas

Family: Parents, two brothers and one sister

Time at Laughlin: Four years in November

Time in military/civil service: Four years in November

Greatest accomplishment: Graduating Specialized Undergraduate Pilot Training and getting my wings

Hobbies: Snowboarding, mountain biking, hanging with my first assignment instructor pilots and traveling to see my girlfriend and family

Bad Habit: Skipping breakfast in the morning

Favorite movies: Braveheart, Gladiator and Tommy Boy

If you could spend one hour with any person, who would it be and why: There are a lot of people I want to spend an hour with so it's tough to limit to just one. However, if I could spend it with anyone, it would be my two brothers. They have been incredible mentors and with each of us located in different places, I value the times I get to spend with them.