LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- The 47th Flying Training Wing hosted Senator Ted Cruz during a visit to Laughlin Air Force Base, Texas, Feb. 20, 2020.
Along with demonstrating the pilot training mission, the visit also showcased ongoing projects on base.
“We’re happy to have Senator Cruz come to Laughlin and visit the men and women of Team XL,” said Col. Lee Gentile, 47th Flying Training Wing commander. “It’s a great opportunity for us to show how we graduate the world’s best military leaders, Airmen and pilots, and how we intend to keep doing that.”
Beginning in the afternoon with a visit with wing leadership, Cruz visited the enlisted dormitories where Lt. Col. Jeffrey Klein, 47th Civil Engineer Squadron commander, showed plans for the new dormitories.
After the tour, Cruz was briefed on an assortment of Laughlin related topics—including the impact of wind turbine farms to the pilot training mission and quality of life improvements provided by the dormitory renovations.
“It was great to discuss the plans we have for our dormitories with our elected leaders and we look forward to potential future funding to get these efforts off the ground,” Klein said.
Once the tour concluded, Cruz met with local and regional leaders to discuss challenges in the local area.
“We’re grateful to have Senator Cruz come out and visit Laughlin,” said Blanca Larson, Del Rio Chamber of Commerce Executive Director. “Their mission provides a lot to our nation and their people provide a lot to our community.”