Some 25 airmen from the 85th Flying Training Squadron at Laughlin AFB, Tex., decided that the highway area outside the base’s main gate could use a new landmark—for pilots approaching the training base. After securing the necessary approval from civil entities, the airmen painted a median section of Highway 90 near the main gate with the squadron patch and the words: “CHECK HANDLE DOWN THREE GREEN FLAPS TAKEOFF.”
Air Force F-16 pilot Lt. Col. Eric R. Emerson, who commanded a small quick reaction force of fighters responding to Iranian-backed militia groups in 2024, became the first Air National Guardsman presented with the Anthony C. Shine Award on Feb. 10.
