Laughlin Manor: best small base lodging facility

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Sara Csurilla
  • 47th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs
LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  Imagine walking into a hotel where palm trees line emerald green grass and you're greeted by nothing but friendly faces and a feeling of home.

Guests at the award-winning Laughlin Manor don't have to imagine this, it's their reality.

Laughlin recently took the top honor in the Air Education and Training Command for best small base lodging facility.

Now, Michael Birriel, 47th Force Support Squadron chief, and the manor staff will be competing against small bases around the world for the Air Force Inn keeper award.

"Laughlin was considered best in the AETC because of the astonishing facility and all the team work that goes into making our establishment run smoothly and organized," said Birriel. "The teamwork from house keepers to wing leadership is what's paramount for us to go on and win this award."

Laughlin offers a total of 117 fully accommodated rooms with very competitive rates, and the base also has a state-of-the-art fitness center and a pool. 

With a look of confidence on his face Birriel said, "I believe with all the accommodations on base, our lodging facility easily rivals any first-rate hotel in any civilian community."

Along with excellent accommodations comes much duty. The staff had been preparing for the Air Force inspection team to inspect not only the facility but the people well before dominating in AETC.

"To prepare, we just do what comes natural when it comes to caring for our guests and we also ensure everything is done, from having the correct number of pillows on the beds to keeping the inventory up to date," said Mike Knight, lodging manager.

Thousands of guests visit the manor every year and some can't help but to rave about their stay.

"I absolutely loved staying here," said Patricia Pelletier, visiting mother of Jean Pelletier, 47th Security Forces Squadron. "The house keepers were some of the nicest people I think I've ever met and they made sure I had everything I ever needed during my stay."

"I'm very confident [that we'll do very well] when the inspection team comes," said Knight. "We have such an outstanding facility and an even better team to offer here."