Laughlin Air Force Base, Texas -- Laughlin Air Force Base offers an array of activities that Airmen and their families can enjoy; and the list of things to do is constantly changing to keep-up with Airmen and their family’s interest.
These activities, whether it be boating at Southwinds Marina, reading a book at the base library, or an Outdoor Recreation-instructed ‘intro to disc golf’ class here on base, all play a part in making sure Airmen are mission ready and aligned with the ‘Four Pillars’ of Comprehensive Airman Fitness.
“For example; exercising the mental pillar may be done through an activity as simple as checking out a book at our library,” Capt. Laura Watson, 47th Force Support Squadron operations officer and master resiliency trainer. “It doesn't really matter if the book is fiction, non-fiction or related to self-improvement—it’s anything that allows you to clear your mind and allows you to focus more easily on whatever stresses you might face.”
If you’re not a reader, Hilario Hernandez, 47th Force Support Squadron recreation aide at Southwinds Marina, encourages Airmen and their families to, “Just come out and enjoy themselves; who knows, we may have something that they’ve never tried before.”
In addition to Southwinds Marina recently acquired gas-powered catamaran style watercrafts, they also rent paddle boards, kayaks, canoes, wakeboards, wet-suits, cabins, camp sites, wet and dry boat storage and more. A full list, prices and hours can be acquired by contacting Southwinds Marina at (830) 775-7800.
Laughlin Outdoor Recreation has also recently added a new activity where the physical pillar can be exercised. It’s a 12 foot tall climbing boulder – and it’s free to use.
Outdoor Recreation hosts other activities such as concealed carry classes, ‘bass fishing with a pro,’ a trap shooting instructional class, trips to San Antonio and more.
“The goal is to find out what Airmen and their families want so we can make it happen,” said Fernando Brown, 47th Force Support Squadron Outdoor Recreation manager explained.
The activities and equipment Outdoor Recreation provides is based on surveys, customer feedback, and information from other bases on what’s been trending, explained Brown.
“Strengthening your resiliency not only ensures you are healthy and able to contribute to our Air Force missions, but it also allows you to more effectively help others,” said Watson. “It’s as simple as getting out and choosing to participate.”