LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Military spouses were recognized for their support and sacrifice during a Military Spouse Appreciation Day event held here May 10, 2025.
The event aimed to celebrate the resilience of military families and offer a behind-the-scenes look at base operations.
Organized by Capt. Benjamin Brockman, 434th Flying Training Squadron T-6A instructor pilot, and Abby Germain, 47th Student Squadron unit training manager, in coordination with the Military Affairs Association and the USO, the day included a brunch, base tours, demonstrations and remarks from wing leadership.
“Military spouses sacrifice a lot to be with their service member and we want this day to simultaneously be about showing appreciation for those sacrifices while also giving an inside look to what service members do day to day; specifically at Laughlin,” said Germain. “We had so much support from the start of planning; the Military Affairs Association, made up of several community leaders, got involved and were a huge part of the event.”
Spouses were invited to explore various units across the installation, including K-9 demonstrations, a tour of the air traffic control tower and visits with emergency response teams. The intent was to strengthen understanding and connection between military families and the mission of the 47th Flying Training Wing.
The event’s centerpiece was a brunch featuring remarks from Chief Master Sgt. Lester Largaespada, 47th Flying Training Wing command chief; door prizes donated by Del Rio businesses; and goody bags provided by the USO.
“You are phenomenal heroes,” said Largaespada. “You’re the ones who fill the gap when we relocate, re-enroll kids in school, rebuild support networks, and start over, again and again. Whether we’re at home or deployed, it’s your strength that keeps us grounded. Make no mistake: we may wear the uniform, but we cannot do what we do without your support. You are the foundation of everything we accomplish.”
Leaders and organizers alike highlighted the often-unseen sacrifices and steady contributions of military spouses, both in the home and across the broader Laughlin community.
“As a spouse myself, I know firsthand the service that spouses give, not only to their service members, but to the community,” said Germain. “Spouses donate and volunteer so much, always signing up to provide meals for meal trains, donating to Single Laughlin Airman Meal (SLAM) events, being a part of various private organizations and community service groups.”
With wide support from base personnel and community partners, the appreciation day events served to reinforce Laughlin’s commitment to supporting the families who support the mission.