LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- The Airmen of Laughlin bid a fond farewell to Chief Master Sgt. Lester Largaespada, 47th Flying Training Wing command chief, after 29 years of service during his retirement ceremony here June 6, 2025.
Col. Kevin A. Davidson, United States Africa Command Washington Liaison Office, director, presided over the ceremony, highlighting Largaespada’s career and the exceptional performance required to achieve the status and position of Command Chief Master Sergeant.
“Chief Largaespada is an amazing Airman, husband and father,” said Davidson. “There is no greater way to transition to the next chapter than a celebration such as this. The impact you etched in our service’s history will weather generations. I’m not takling about the concrete you poured, but the heart and soul of service you have poured over Airmen for the last 29 years.”
Largaespada’s career began as a construction equipment apprentice and throughout his 29 years of service, he fulfilled various duties within the Civil Engineer career field. Additionally, he served in a special duty capacity as an International Military Student Manager for the InterAmerican Air Forces Academy. His career saw 15 different assignments and deployments in support of Operations SOUTHERN WATCH, ENDURING FREEDOM, INHERENT RESOLVE, FREEDOM’S SENTINAL, and Joint Task Force Guantanamo Bay. Prior to his assignment at the 47th Flying Training Wing, he served as the Command Chief Master Sergeant, 99th Air Base Wing, Nellis AFB, Nevada.
“In every action, interaction and decision, you let integrity be your compass,” said Davidson. “Today, you end your Air Force service to our nation; you served with honor and distinction. Your nation, and I, are proud of your accomplishments and are grateful for your excellent, steadfast dedication to carry her shield and sword.”
In his closing remarks, Largaespada thanked his family and friends for supporting his Air Force journey, as well as offering words of encouragement for the Airmen of the 47th Flying Training Wing.
“To the men and women of the 47th Flying Training Wing, you guys rock,” said Largaespada. “The mission we have here is an awesome mission. We train the world’s greatest pilots. We are members of the world’s greatest air force, and it’s because of you, because of the people, and because of our total force Airmen. Not just our military, but our civilians as well. You are the reason we are going to persevere.”