Maj. Gen. Prather honored with street renaming

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Nathan Maysonet
  • 47th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs
LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  Laughlin pays tribute to a former Team XL member by renaming a street in his honor during a retreat ceremony held at Laughlin's Heritage Park Sept. 7.

The street, formally known as Freedom Way, was changed to Prather Street in reference to retired Maj. Gen. Gerald Prather for his dedication to Laughlin and the Del Rio community.

"As we look back over his career accomplishments, when we talk with those who know him best, when we look at what he does every day, it is what he has always done," said Col. Tom Murphy, 47th Flying Training Wing commander. "He makes a difference in the life of everyone he meets."

Prather, who commissioned and earned his wings at Laughlin in 1956, served 32 years in the Air Force beginning as a pilot. He flew more than 500 combat support missions and ended his career as the assistant chief of staff, information systems, Headquarters U.S. Air Force before retiring and returning to Del Rio were he continues to serve the community.

Since returning, Prather has served as Justice of the Peace, County Planner for Val Verde County, President and life time director of the Del Rio Chamber of Commerce, Chairman and President of the United Way and District President of the Boy Scouts of America.

"I've enjoyed helping protect the people of Laughlin and the city of Del Rio," Prather said. "These are my people, my town and my base. That'll never change."

In attendance were his 13 children and grandchildren amongst many Laughlin and Del Rio leaders and friends.

"I'm so glad you are honoring this man because he has done so much for the community, and I'm honored to even be invited to the event," said Jeanne Roe, avid Military Affairs Association member and owner of Robert's Jeweler.

Prather is now one of 77 people to have a street or building named after them while still alive in the Air Force's 64 year history. The street named for him, which has had more than 15,000 pilots walk down it, will remain a lasting legacy, said Murphy.

"Prather Street may only be 747 feet long, but I assure you," said Murphy, "General Prather's legacy will go on forever here at Laughlin Air Force Base."