Untitled

CONTENTS

Second Lieutenant Samuel Reeves Keesler, Jr. ………………………………………………… 3

History of Keesler Air Force Base …………………………………………………………….... 4

History of the 81st Training Wing …………………………………………………………….... 16

Keesler Host Unit Commanders ……………………………………………………………….. 19

81st Wing Commanders ………………………………………………………………………. 20

Keesler Senior Enlisted Advisors/Command Chief Master Sergeants ………………………… 22

Lineage and Honors …………………………………………………………………………… 24

Aircraft Assigned …………………………………………………………………………….... 25

Chronology ……………………………………………………………………………………. 26

Second Lieutenant Samuel Reeves Keesler, Jr.

1896 – 1918

Samuel Reeves Keesler, Jr., was born in Greenwood, Mississippi, on 11 April 1896. He

was an outstanding student leader and athlete in high school and at Davidson College in North

Carolina.

Keesler entered the U.S. Army Air Service on 13 May 1917. He earned his commission as

a second lieutenant on 15 August, and received training as an aerial observer at Fort Sill,

Oklahoma, before sailing to France in March 1918. After additional training in aerial gunnery and

artillery fire control, Lieutenant Keesler was assigned to the 24th Aero Squadron, in the Verdun

sector of the Western Front, on 26 August 1918.

While performing a reconnaissance mission behind German lines in the late afternoon of 8

October 1918, Keesler and his pilot, 1st Lt Harold W. Riley, came under heavy gunfire from four

enemy aircraft. Riley quickly lost control of the badly damaged airplane while Keesler continued

to fend off the attackers even as they plummeted to the ground. Seriously wounded during the

battle and ensuing crash landing, German ground troops eventually captured and held Keesler and

Riley prisoner. Unable to receive immediate medical attention, Keesler died from his injuries the

following day. He was posthumously awarded the WWI Victory Medal with Silver Star device for

his gallantry.

History of Keesler Air Force Base

Early Development: 1941 - 1949

In early January 1941, Biloxi city officials assembled a formal offer to invite the U.S. Army Corps

to build a base to support the WWII training buildup. The package included the Biloxi airport, the

old Naval Reserve Park, and parts of Oak Park sufficient to support a technical training school

with a population of 5,200 people.

On 6 March 1941, the War

Department officially notified Mayor

Louis Braun that Biloxi had been

selected. The War Department

activated Army Air Corps Station No.

8, Aviation Mechanics School, Biloxi,

Mississippi, on 12 June 1941. City

officials wanted the base named after

a notable figure in the local area's

history, but it was War Department

policy to name installations after

service members killed in action. In

late June, Mayor Braun received word

that the new school would be named in

honor of Second Lieutenant Samuel

Reeves Keesler, Jr., of Greenwood,

Mississippi. Lieutenant Keesler had

died of wounds sustained during

World War I while serving in France

as an aerial observer assigned to the 24th Aero Squadron, U.S. Army Air Service. On 25 August

1941, Army Air Corps Station No. 8 was officially designated as Keesler Army Airfield.

Base Construction

Congress initially appropriated $6 million for construction at Biloxi and an additional $2 million

for equipment. By the time the War Department allocated the funds in April 1941, the projected

cost had risen to $9.6 million. On 14 June 1941, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers awarded

Newton, Glenn, and Knost Construction Company and J. A. Jones Construction Company

contracts totaling $10 million to build Biloxi's technical training school. At the time, it was the

most expensive government project to have been undertaken in the State of Mississippi.

First Soldiers Arrive

Captain Samuel A. Mundell arrived in Biloxi on 12 June 1941. He was joined two days later by a

startup cadre from Scott Field, Illinois, consisting of a second lieutenant and 20 enlisted personnel;

they established a temporary headquarters at the Biloxi Armory. Lieutenant Colonel William J.

Hanlon arrived on 16 June to assume command from Captain Mundell. The same Arthur W. Brock

The

Biloxi airport, ballpark,

and golf

course

as it

appeared

in 1941.

who had first examined the site in January, now promoted to colonel, arrived on 17 July to become

the base's first permanent commander.

On 8 September 1941, the 310th Technical School Squadron (the mess unit) became the first

squadron to move to the new barracks. Before the end of the month, three basic training units, the

301st, 303d, and 304th Technical School Squadrons, had also moved into permanent quarters.

Basic Training

When the War Department activated Keesler Field in June 1941, the local community thought it

was getting a technical training center with a student population, which might peak, at 20,000

people. Not only was Keesler to house a technical training center, but it would also host one of the

Army's newest replacement, or basic training centers. Keesler's population almost doubled

overnight.

The first shipment of recruits arrived at Keesler Field on 21 August 1941. During World War II,

the Army's basic training program was little more than a reception process. At Keesler, basic

training lasted four weeks, during which classifiers determined the type of follow-on schooling

that each recruit would receive. Many stayed at Keesler to become airplane and engine mechanics,

while others transferred to aerial gunnery or aviation cadet schools. Trains passed through Keesler

daily, dropping off new trainees and picking up graduates.

By September 1944, the number of recruits had dropped, but the workload remained constant, as

Keesler personnel began processing veteran ground troops and combat crews who had returned

from duty overseas for additional training and follow-on assignments. Basic training wound down

drastically after the end of World War II, and it was finally discontinued at Keesler on 30 June

1946.

Technical Training

Technical training school officers and staff began arriving at Keesler Field in mid July 1941,

primarily from Chanute Field, Illinois. The new academic buildings were still under construction

when the Airplane and Engine Mechanics School opened. Basic Branch students received

instruction in five barracks buildings; Instructor Branch students were assigned to temporary

classrooms set up in commandeered circus tents. In mid-1942 the Army Air Forces directed

Keesler to focus upon the training of mechanics for B-24 Liberator heavy bombers. The school

received its first B-24 in late September 1942. Six more arrived shortly thereafter, and specialized

B-24 maintenance training began on 19 October. Over time, Keesler gradually replaced them with

civilian instructors, including many women.

Women began training here in 1943, as did international students. Students from more than 50

countries have received aviation, personnel, and electronics training at Keesler.

Generally unknown to most was

the role that the Tuskegee

Airmen and other African-

American troops played on

Keesler. In fact, more than 7,000

African-American soldiers were

stationed at Keesler Field by the

autumn of 1943. These soldiers

included pre-aviation cadets,

radio operators, aviation

technicians, bombardiers, and

aviation mechanics. Many

others, like First Sergeant Lucius

Theus, a future major general,

also served with distinction in

Keesler’s permanently assigned

African-Americans units. Keesler

also trained a small number of

black aircraft mechanics from the Tuskegee Institute. These African-American service members

took a giant step forward in their goal of winning wars on two fronts - the struggle against racism

at home and the fight against foreign enemies abroad.

Specialized Flying Training

Keesler continued to focus upon specialized training in B-24 maintenance until mid-1944.

Thereafter, the base was directed to expand its mechanics training curriculums to include other

aircraft. Changing requirements forced the consolidation of all air-rescue training at Keesler in

early 1945, however, and many of these programs had to be moved elsewhere for lack of facility

space.

The rapid buildup of heavy bomber units overseas demanded additional aircrew, and Keesler was

tasked to assist in the spring of 1944. A B-24 Copilot School began operation in July, and its

curriculum was expanded to include B-32 copilot training in October. Procured in small numbers

as a back-up aircraft design for the B-29 strategic bomber program, the B-32 Terminator was

plagued with mechanical problems and production delays. Its contribution to the war effort was

limited and, subsequently, B-32 aircrew training ceased in January 1945. The need for B-24 crews

had also diminished, and Keesler stopped training B-24 copilots two months later.

Keesler’s first graduating class of African-American

airplane mechanics, 1944.

In late July 1944, the Army Air Forces (AAF) consolidated all air-sea rescue training at Keesler.

The situation worsened on 4 January 1945, when the AAF Training Command ordered Keesler to

give priority to air-sea rescue training. The Emergency Rescue School disbanded in April 1946.

Thereafter, air-sea rescue training passed to the Air Transport Command's newly established Air

Rescue Service.

The Post World War II Era

In late May 1947, the AAF announced plans to move its Radar School from Boca Raton, Florida,

to Keesler. The Radar School officially arrived on 14 November 1947, making Keesler responsible

for operating the two largest military technical schools in the United States. Thereafter, shrinking

budgets forced the base to reduce its operating costs: the Airplane and Engine Mechanics School

and the Radar School consolidated on 1 April 1948.

Meanwhile, in September 1947, the United States Air Force became an independent branch of the

armed services. As a result, Keesler Field was officially redesignated as an Air Force base on 13

January 1948.

In early 1949, Air Training Command decided that Keesler should focus its efforts on teaching

radar, radio, and electronics maintenance and repair. To make room, the airplane and engine

mechanics courses had to be moved elsewhere. Especially since the Air Force also planned to

transfer the Radio Operations School to Keesler from Scott AFB, Illinois. In addition to training

radio operators, Keesler was to begin teaching air traffic service technicians; aircraft approach

controllers, ground radar mechanics, and radar repairman/ground-controlled approach specialists.

The last mechanics training courses had moved to Sheppard AFB, Texas, by November, and it was

at this point in the base's history that Keesler became known as the "Electronics Training Center

of the Air Force."

The Korean War and the Fifties: 1950 - 1959

In August 1950, Keesler embarked on a major rebuilding program to upgrade its facilities across

the board. The first phase of this project called for the construction of a new electronics laboratory,

barracks, and a dining hall for a total cost of $14 million. In 1951, Congress appropriated an

additional $44 million to complete Keesler's reconstruction. Plans included four two-story

academic buildings (later named Allee, Dolan, Thomson, and Wolfe Halls), a 352-bed hospital,

modern family housing units, and a three-story dormitory complex dubbed "the triangle" because

of its distinctive layout.

The 1950s also meant organizational change for Keesler. Since August 1948, the 3380th Technical

Training Wing had controlled all base activities. Under it were four subordinate units: the 3380th

Technical Training Group, which operated the school; the 3380th Maintenance and Supply Group;

the 3380th Air Base Group; and the 3380th Medical Group. In 1955, a fifth group was added: the

3380th Installations Group. That arrangement continued until 1 January 1959, when Air Training

Command redesignated the wing as Headquarters, Keesler Technical Training Center (KTTC). At

the same time, the training group was redesignated as the 3380th Technical School, USAF, and all

its subordinate student squadrons were renamed school squadrons.

Technical Training

Keesler's modernization required more than expanded facilities. For example, Keesler began using

television instruction methods as early as June 1953. In 1950, Keesler offered only 14 generalized

courses, but by December 1959 that number had grown to 116, including vital USAF programs

such as the aircraft warning and control system.

In early 1956, Keesler entered the missile age by opening a ground support-training program for

the SM-65 Atlas intercontinental ballistic missile. In addition, school personnel were developing

training methods for the newly adopted semi-automatic ground environment (SAGE) system, an

integrated defense net intended to protect the United States from Soviet air attack. The base gained

even more responsibility in 1958, when the Air Force announced that Scott AFB would relinquish

its training mission. As a result, all control tower operator, radio maintenance, and general radio

operator courses came to be under Keesler's already broad technical training roof.

Technology in the Sixties and Seventies: 1960 - 1979

By 1960 the school at Keesler had earned a solid reputation for high technology training, offering

courses in radar, communications, and electronics. During the early l960s, Keesler lost many of

its airborne training courses, and the aircraft

they required. The TC-54s assigned to

electronic warfare officer training departed

for Mather AFB, California, in April 1961. In

December 1962, the Air Ground Operations

School and its T-33s transferred to Eglin

AFB, Florida; they had filled Biloxi's

airspace with jet noise since 1957. The last C-

47 used for airborne ground approach radar

training left in 1966, when it was replaced by

a ground-based simulator.

By the mid-1960s, the United States was

beginning to deploy substantial forces to

Southeast Asia. The Vietnam War buildup

caused base-wide shortages of everything

from uniforms to post office boxes, but it also

returned pilot training to Keesler for the first

time since 1953. On 15 January 1967, the

3389th Pilot Training Squadron was

activated and equipped with T-28 Trojans. Its

mission was to teach Military Assistance

Program (MAP) students how to fly. The

squadron hosted personnel from many

countries, including Iran, Mexico, and Peru,

but especially from South Vietnam. Of the

908 pilots who graduated before the squadron

Advances in evolving technology rapidly led

to changes in Keesler’s training.

inactivated in 1973, 743 were from that beleaguered country. Advances in evolving technology

rapidly led to changes in Keesler’s training and infrastructure. Meanwhile, all Air Force basic

training at Keesler ceased in 1966, when Air Training Command assigned that responsibility solely

to Lackland AFB, Texas.

On 11 June 1968, Keesler reached a milestone when it graduated its one-millionth student. A

month later, the school absorbed both personnel and administrative functions that increased

Keesler's student population by almost 20 percent.

Keesler remained the largest training base within ATC throughout the 1970s, and it continued to

stay on the cutting edge of electronics technology, instructing students in new systems such as the

worldwide military command and control system and the 407L radar system. The school was the

country's main supplier of electronics technicians, but a traditional division between academic and

technical studies meant that Keesler's graduates could not receive college credit for their efforts.

On 31 May 1972, Air Training Command redesignated the 3380th Technical School as the USAF

School of Applied Aerospace Sciences. Soon after on 13 December, the school received

institutional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. As a result,

Airmen trained at Keesler received a Career Educational Certificate from the newly established

Community College of the Air Force. This opportunity was further expanded in April 1977, when

Keesler graduates became eligible to apply their technical training towards an Associate of Arts

degree.

Keesler's student load dropped to an all-time low after the Vietnam War ended, and Air Force

officials responded to changing social conditions by reexamining the school's teaching functions.

As a result, Air Training Command inactivated the USAF School of Applied Aerospace Sciences

on 1 April 1977 and replaced it with the 3300th Technical Training Wing, which activated the

same day.

Tenant Support

As the Vietnam War began winding down, so too did the need to train Vietnamese pilots. The

MAP foreign pilot training program ended in 1973, again leaving Keesler without a flying mission.

That situation did not last long as several flying units were reassigned to Keesler during the 1970s.

On 16 April 1973, the Department of Defense announced that Military Airlift Command (MAC)

would transfer two squadrons to Keesler: the 1st Aerospace Cartographic and Geodetic Squadron

from Forbes AFB, Kansas, and the 53d Weather Reconnaissance Squadron from Ramey AFB,

Puerto Rico. The 1st Aerospace Cartographic and Geodetic Squadron used its RC-130s to conduct

photomapping assignments worldwide, while the 53d went "hurricane hunting” throughout the

Caribbean with its WC-130s.

These squadrons were tenant units at Keesler, meaning they relied on various base organizations

for support but were not otherwise a part of Keesler's command structure. Both units were in place

by 31 July 1973. In addition to the units belonging to MAC, Keesler also gained an Air Force

Reserve tenant in April 1973 when the 920th Tactical Airlift Group activated. This unit flew C-

130 Hercules turboprop transport aircraft.

The increased number of large aircraft underscored the need for airfield improvements. Starting in

January 1974, engineers began extending the runway and converting two hangars into aircraft

maintenance shops. Even before these projects could be completed, however, the Air Force

proposed transferring yet another unit to Keesler—the 7th Airborne Command and Control

Squadron, which had previously been assigned to Pacific Air Forces and stationed in Southeast

Asia. Active U.S. involvement had ended in Vietnam, and the 7th was no longer needed in the Far

East. Keesler was selected as the new home for the 7th's EC-130 airborne command and control

aircraft; the squadron arrived in August 1975 as a base tenant unit reporting directly to

Tactical Air Command (TAC).

The End of the Cold War and Beyond: 1980 - 1999

Two weapon systems training programs gained attention during the early l980s. One was the

airborne warning and control system (employed aboard the E-3A Sentry aircraft), and the other

was the BGM-109 ground-launched cruise missile. Keesler's air traffic control program also

garnered its share of publicity, especially after the Professional Air Traffic Controllers

Organization walked off the job in August 1981. When President Ronald Reagan fired the strikers,

Keesler-trained military air traffic controllers stepped in to keep the nation's airways flowing

smoothly.

Beginning in 1984, school officials worked with Air Force Communications Command's 1872d

School Squadron to develop prototype-training programs using interactive videodisc (IVD)

technology, which soon supported a variety of Keesler interactive course offerings. Keesler's Wall

Studio IVD production capability was one of only two in the entire Air Force, and supported many

organizations Air Force wide.

Driven by deep defense budget cuts, the congressionally mandated base realignment and closure

process culminated in a major downsizing effort, significantly impacting Keesler's training

mission. With base closure forcing an end to technical training at Chanute AFB, Illinois, and

Lowry AFB, Colorado, Keesler's growing importance as a technical university would become even

more firmly fixed. The first additions arrived in 1990, as Keesler acquired Chanute's weather

forecasting courses. Lowry's metrology and precision maintenance electronics laboratory training

program followed in 1992-1993.

The Air Force released the "Year of Training" initiatives in 1992. It was a top to bottom

reevaluation of the process by which USAF technicians acquired and honed their skills. This action

led to a host of organizational changes. One initiative proposed a drawdown of USAF field training

detachments (FTD). These detachments were the mechanism by which USAF maintainers still in

the planning stages in 1995, the FTD draw down initiative would divide weapon systems training

among the major using commands and the technical training centers, and Keesler stood to inherit

many new course responsibilities once the draw down plan went into effect.

Another Year of Training initiative resulted in the return of flying training to Keesler for the first

time since 1973. Tasked with providing operational airlift support training to pilots in C-12C/F

Huron and C-21A Learjet aircraft, the 45th Airlift Squadron was assigned to the 81st Training

Group. It began operations in July 1994.

Meanwhile, the massive restructuring of the Air Force in the early 1990s also meant several

changes for Keesler's associate units. The first occurred when the 53rd Weather Reconnaissance

Squadron (known throughout the Gulf region as the Hurricane Hunters) inactivated and transferred

to the reserves on 30 June 1991. Its important mission merged with the storm-tracking mission of

the 815th WRS, a component of the 403rd Wing, Keesler's resident Air Force Reserve unit that

includes the 815th Airlift Squadron that also flies C-130s. Another base tenant change occurred

when the 7th Airborne Command and Control Squadron and its EC-130 flying command post

aircraft relocated to Davis-Monthan AFB, Arizona, in September 1994.

Those restructuring efforts similarly affected units assigned to Keesler Technical Training Center.

In February 1992, Headquarters Air Force redesignated the base's host unit as the Keesler Training

Center (KTC). The 3300th Technical Training Wing downsized to become a group, and its

component technical training groups became squadrons. The 3305th Student Group also

inactivated along with its subordinate squadrons. In mid-September all the 3380th numbered units

assumed the 393rd designation, as the base further realigned itself to conform to the Air Force's

objective wing structure. In addition, the technical training group also assumed the 393rd

designation, and its nine technical training and training support squadrons were renumbered to

better reflect the new, simplified organizational arrangement.

Yet another major change occurred on 1 July 1993, when Keesler Training Center inactivated, and

its lineage and honors retired. On the same day, the 81st Tactical Fighter Wing, formerly located

at Royal Air Force (RAF) Station Bentwaters, United Kingdom, was redesignated the 81st

Training Wing and concurrently activated to serve as Keesler's host organization. At the same

time, HQ USAF redesignated Air Training Command as Air Education and Training Command

(AETC), and the command activated Second Air Force and stationed it at Keesler. Its mission was

to oversee all technical training conducted within AETC.

The 21st Century

The end of the Cold War and subsequent military drawdown caused the armed services to

refocus on a long dormant issue, namely participation in the Interservice Training Review

Organization (ITRO)—a review of

military programs to eliminate training

duplication and reduce training costs

through consolidation. The first

results of ITRO made themselves felt at

Keesler in 1995, when the ITRO

Executive Board determined that all

DoD Calibration training would be

consolidated at Keesler. The first

contingent of students arrived in 1996,

as the Navy closed offices and moved

equipment from San Diego, California,

and Norfolk, Virginia, to Keesler. The

Marine Corps followed in 1997, as it

Keesler AFB’s premier “Triangle Vision.”

transferred equipment and students from the Marine Corps Logistics Base (MCLB) in Albany,

Georgia, to Keesler. The course load and population increase expected from the FTD

drawdown dissipated in 1996, as USAF leaders determined that centralization of training under

the FTD would be unrealistic.

On 4 October 1996, Keesler officially implemented “Triangle Vision,” an ambitious five-year,

$23-million building project designed to modernize the base’s 1950s era technical training

dormitories and dining facilities. The first phase of the project called for the selective short-

term repair of existing facilities, including renovation of restrooms and removal of hazardous

material. The second phase replaced dormitories with seven new facilities, created a new training

support squadron and built an additional dining hall.

Hurricane Katrina

Hurricane Katrina ranked as one of the costliest and deadliest hurricanes in U.S. history. It was the

eleventh named storm, fifth hurricane and second Category 5 hurricane of the 2005 Atlantic

hurricane season, and sixth strongest Atlantic hurricane ever recorded, to date.

Tropical Depression Twelve formed over the southeastern Bahamas at 4:00 p.m. Central Daylight

Time (CDT) on August 23, 2005 partially from the remains of Tropical Depression Ten. The

system was upgraded to Tropical Storm Katrina on the morning of August 24, and became a

hurricane only two hours before it made landfall on August 25, between Hallandale Beach and

Aventura, on the east coast of Florida.

Katrina had a well- defined eye on Doppler radar that remained intact throughout its passage

over the state Florida. It had weakened to a tropical storm as it passed over land, but quickly

regained strength and hurricane status approximately one hour after entering the Gulf of Mexico.

Rapid intensification occurred during the first 24-hours after entering the Gulf, due in part to the

storm’s movement over the warm sea surface temperatures of the Loop Current—a large flow of

warm water that flows clockwise and dominates circulation within the eastern Gulf of Mexico. On

August 25, the storm reached Category 3 intensity on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale, and

became the third major hurricane of the season. President George W. Bush declared a state of

emergency in Louisiana, Alabama and Mississippi two days before the hurricane made a second

landfall.

At 8:00 a.m. (CDT), on the morning of August 27th, the 81st Training Wing commander’s Crises

Action Team (CAT) assembled and declared Hurricane Condition (HURCON) 3. The decision

was made to evacuate over 10,000 personnel and begin preparations to shelter the remaining 6,000.

Katrina continued to intensify and reached Category 5 status on August 28, with maximum

sustained winds of 175 mph and a central pressure of 902 millibar (mbar). The CAT reassembled

at 8:00 a.m. on Sunday morning, August 28th, and declared HURCON 2. Base shelters opened

that afternoon at 5:00 p.m., and the 45th Airlift Squadron and 403rd Wing deployed their aircraft

to safe zones. The CAT reconvened that afternoon and initiated HURCON 1—the outer bands of

Hurricane Katrina were already being felt by Sunday evening.

Just after midnight on August 29, although the hurricane was still six hours away from a second

landfall, the storm was so large that some areas of the Gulf Coast were already experiencing

tropical storm-force winds. Overnight, the system entered an eye-wall replacement cycle and

although its maximum sustained winds had slightly weakened, the storm grew even larger. Katrina

made a second landfall at 6:10 a.m. on August 29th, near Buras-Triumph, Louisiana

(approximately 150 miles west of Keesler AFB), as a Category 3 hurricane with sustained winds

of 125 mph.

A few hours later, Katrina made a third and final landfall near the Louisiana/Mississippi border

with 120 mph sustained winds— still a Category 3 hurricane. Record storm surge came ashore

along the entire Mississippi Gulf Coast and into Alabama, peaking at 34 feet in Bay St Louis,

Mississippi, and reaching 13 feet as far away as Mobile, Alabama. Moving at 15 mph, Katrina’s

eye passed 43 miles to the west of Keesler. With the base battened down and all conceivable

preparations completed, personnel waited for the storm to pass. Scattered across the installation in

six, 1,000-person shelters (medical center and training buildings), 6,006 people hunkered down as

the base was pummeled for nearly 12 hours.

Katrina’s Wake

The water from Biloxi’s Back Bay swamped Keesler’s northern- most thoroughfare, Ploesti Drive.

The main road running north and south, Larcher Boulevard—along with 50 percent of the base—

became submerged. The BX and Commissary were inundated under more than five feet of water;

Keesler Medical Center received massive flooding into its basement, as did countless other

facilities. The shelters were battered and took on some floodwater, but remained intact. When the

storm surge receded and the winds calmed down, Katrina’s devastating blow to Keesler was

estimated at $950 million with 95 percent of the base damaged to some extent.

Personnel and resources from around the Air Force quickly converged on the installation,

and the extraordinary reconstruction effort, dubbed Operation DRAGON COMEBACK, began in

earnest. Although Keesler’s training mission was temporarily halted, within days several

squadrons resumed training for students who were within 7-10 days of graduating from their

respective courses. The rapid recovery and repair of training facilities and the remarkable efforts

of instructors allowed additional courses to be quickly brought back on line. By October 20, all

enlisted initial skill courses were approved to be taught, although some at less than 100 percent

capacity; by November 1st, there were 1,762 students in training at Keesler; and by years end

almost all training facilities, dining halls, and student dorms that had sustained damage became

operational. The tremendous efforts of the military and civilians assigned to the 81st Training

Wing enabled Keesler’s mission to resume much sooner than anyone originally anticipated, and

the remarkable pace of rebuilding the base continued.

At the beginning of the 21st Century, the 81 TRW was one of the largest technical training wings

in Air Education and Training Command (AETC). In addition to technical training, Keesler AFB

also trained pilots in C-21 aircraft. The C-21's belonged to the 45th Airlift Squadron (AS), a

detachment from Little Rock AFB, Arkansas. The 45th AS inactivated on 15 July 2011 ending

seven years of pilot training. Today, the 81st Training Wing (81 TRW) trains thousands of Airmen

and members form the Navy, Army, Marines, Coast Guard, and allied nations. Thousands of Air

Force and DoD civilians train at Keesler each year. Thirty-six AFSC-awarding training courses

were taught at Keesler; among them are Undergraduate Cyber Training, Command Post, Air

Traffic Control, Manpower, Personnel, and DoD Weather. The 81st Medical Group also trains

Airmen in seven enlisted Phase II medical courses and doctors and dentists through its graduate

medical and dental education programs. Though the 81 TRW primary missions were that of

technical training, Keesler AFB is host to many associate units with their own histories.

Keesler AFB Became the Air Force’s Cyber Training Campus

The Air Force Announced in 2009 that the 81st Training Group (81 TRG) at KAFB would establish

a cyber-campus. Therefore, combat systems, communications, and information officers combined

into a cyber-warfare officer 17X specialty group. The enlisted members also transitioned the same

way into cyber warfare operations (bound/wired) and (unbound/wireless) career fields. This

process initiated the path to the Undergraduate Cyber Training (UCT) program. The first officers

graduated from the UCT on 7 December 2010.

HISTORY OF THE 81st TRAINING WING

Emblem: Approved 2 Mar 1943, for use by the 81st Fighter Group; approved 14 May 1956 for

use by the 81st Training Wing.

Description: Or, a dragon salient wings displayed addorsed azure, armed and langued gules,

incensed proper, holding in its dexter claw a stylized boll weevil sable.

Significance: The wing’s mission is symbolized by the fabled fiery dragon, a creature adopted in

medieval times with the thought of intimidating enemies. The dragon’s breath of fire renders all

opposition useless, while the stylized boll weevil clutched in the dragon’s claw is suggestive of

the enemy.

Motto: Le Nom-Les Armes-La Loyauté (The Name, The Arms, The Loyalty)

Although not established until 1948, the 81st Tactical

Fighter

Wing’s bestowed

history dates back to World War II, when the 81

Pursuit Group (Interceptor) was activated

in February 1942, at

Morris

Field, North Carolina. In May 1942, the unit was redesignated

the

81st

Fighter Group and began training with P-39 aircraft. Later that year,

the

group’s

ground echelon arrived in French Morocco with the force

that

invaded North Africa on 8

November 1942. Its air echelon, which

had

trained in England, arrived in North Africa in

December 1942. Assigned to Twelfth Air Force, the Group supported Allied ground

operations

against Axis forces in Tunisia. Afterward, the 81st patrolled the coast

Africa

and protected Allied shipping lanes in the Mediterranean Sea.

The

group also provided cover

for ship convoys that landed troops on

the

island of Pantelleria and Sicily, and at Anzio,

Italy

In February 1944, the 81st transferred to India and began training with P-40 Warhawk and

P-47 Thunderbolt aircraft. It moved to China in May and became part of Fourteenth Air Force.

The group continued training until January 1945, when it returned to combat duty. There, the 81st

attacked enemy airfields and installations and aided Chinese ground forces by attacking Japanese

troop concentrations, ammunition depots, communication lines, and other strategic targets. The

group inactivated in China on 27 December 1945.

The 81st Fighter Group reactivated on 15 October 1946, at Wheeler Field, Hawaii, and was

outfitted with P-51 Mustangs. On 1 May 1948, the 81st Fighter Wing also activated at Wheeler

Field, and the 81st Fighter Group became its primary operational component. (The group

inactivated in February 1955). Although the wing’s Mustang fighters were replaced with P-47N

Thunderbolt aircraft, the wing continued to defend Hawaiian airspace until mid-1949. In June of

that year, the 81st moved to Kirtland AFB, Albuquerque, New Mexico, where it began flying F-

80C Shooting Star jet fighters. On 20 January 1950, the wing was redesignated the 81st Fighter-

Interceptor Wing. Outfitted with the new F-86A Sabre fighter jet, it moved to Moses Lake (later

Larson) AFB, Washington, a few months later. Upon arrival, the 81st was assigned to the Western

Air Defense Force and given a new mission—air defense of the Pacific Northwest.

Just 14 months later, in August 1951, 81st personnel found themselves packing bags

again—this time moving to RAF Bentwaters in England. As part of Third Air Force, the 81st was

the first F-86 Sabre unit to be based in Europe where it played a major role in the peacetime air

defense of Great Britain. In 1954 the wing converted to the F-84F Thunderstreak, and on 1 April

of that year, the unit was redesignated the 81st Fighter-Bomber Wing to reflect its nuclear strike

capability. Thereafter, the 81st was charged with tactical operations for the United States Air

Forces in Europe in support of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), with air defense

as a secondary mission. The wing upgraded to the faster, longer-ranged F-101A Voodoo in early

1958.

On 8 July 1958, two significant events occurred. First, the wing again redesignated, this

time as the 81st Tactical Fighter Wing (81 TFW). Second, a nearby installation, RAF Woodbridge,

transferred to the 81 TFW. Along with RAF Bentwaters, the two locations would be known as the

wing's twin base of operations for 35 years.

Seventeenth Air Force became headquarters to the 81 TFW in 1961, but in September

1963, the wing once again found itself under the command of Third Air Force. In 1965, the 81st

converted to the F-4C Phantom II, and then in turn to the F-4D beginning in 1969. The 81st traded

in its high-speed, high-altitude F-4s for the slow-flying A-10A Thunderbolt II ground attack

aircraft in 1979, and for a time the wing was the Air Force’s largest operator of this nimble, tank-

hunting aircraft, affectionately called Warthog by its pilots and ground crews. In the late 1980s,

the wing's 527th Aggressor Squadron flew the F-16 Fighting Falcon.

Throughout the 1980s, the 81 TFW mission was to provide close air support and battlefield

interdiction in support of NATO ground forces. The wing participated in rotational deployments

to air bases in Germany, and it conducted joint training operations with U.S. and British ground

forces. Following Operation Desert Storm, the 81st logged over 10,000 flying hours while

patrolling "no-fly zones" over northern and southern Iraq enforcing UN sanctions against the

rogue nation.

On 1 July 1993, the 81st Tactical Fighter Wing inactivated at RAF Bentwaters. That same

day, HQ USAF redesignated the wing as the 81st Training Wing (81 TRW), activated it at

Keesler and assigned it to Second Air Force. Although its name and mission have changed, the

wing’s illustrious heritage continues unbroken.

KEESLER’S HOST UNIT COMMANDERS

Keesler Army Air Field:

Col Arthur W. Brock, Jr. 17 Jul 41

Col Robert E.M. Goolrick 15 Apr 42

3704th Army Air Force Base Unit:

Col Robert E.M. Goolrick 1 May 44

Col Thomas S. Voss 1 May 45

Col John R. Morgan 6 Oct 45

Brig Gen Hugo P. Rush 8 Feb 46

Brig Gen Edward W. Anderson 15 Apr 47

Maj Gen Charles W. Lawrence 5 Apr 48

3380th Technical Training Wing:

Maj Gen Charles W. Lawrence 26 Aug 48

Maj Gen James F. Powell 18 May 49

Maj Gen Harlan C. Parks 20 Aug 53

Brig Gen James H. Davies 2 Apr 55

Maj Gen Fay R. Upthegrove 1 Sep 55

Maj Gen John R. Sutherland 3 Sep 57

Keesler Technical Training Center:

Maj Gen John R. Sutherland 1 Jan 59

Maj Gen John S. Hardy 12 Jul 60

Maj Gen Romulus W. Puryear 27 Jul 64

Maj Gen James C. McGehee 1 Aug 67

Maj Gen Thomas E. Moore 1 Aug 69

Maj Gen Frank M. Madsen, Jr. 29 Nov 69

Maj Gen Bryan M. Shotts 26 Feb 73

Maj Gen Winfield W. Scott, Jr. 1 Aug 75

Maj Gen John S. Pustay 29 Jul 77

Maj Gen Don H. Payne 24 May 79

Maj Gen Thomas C. Richards 8 May 82

Maj Gen Thomas J. Hickey 26 Sep 83

Maj Gen James G. Jones 18 Aug 86

Maj Gen Paul A. Harvey 22 Jun 88

Brig Gen Paul E. Stein 30 Aug 91

Keesler Training Center:

Brig Gen Paul E. Stein 14 Feb 92

Maj Gen John C. Griffith 30 Apr 92

81st Training Wing:

Brig Gen Karen S. Rankin 1 Jul 93

Brig Gen Andrew J. Pelak, Jr. 7 Nov 95

Brig Gen John M. Spiegel 4 Aug 97

Brig Gen Elizabeth A. Harrell 14 Jul 99

Brig Gen Roosevelt Mercer, Jr. 5 Sept 00

Brig Gen Michael W. Peterson 3 May 02

Brig Gen William T. Lord 20 Apr 04

Brig Gen Paul F. Capasso 15 Nov 05

Brig Gen Gregory J. Touhill 2 Oct 07

Brig Gen Ian R. Dickinson 26 May 09

Brig Gen Andrew M. Mueller 2 Aug 10

Brig Gen Bradley D. Spacy 18 May 12

Brig Gen Patrick C. Higby 23 Aug 13

Col Michele C. Edmondson 26 Jun 15

Col Debra A. Lovette 2 Jun 17

Col Heather W. Blackwell 16 May 19

Col William H. Hunter 17 Jun 21

81st WING COMMANDERS

81st Fighter Wing:

Col Thomas W. Blackburn 1 May 48

Lt Col Francis R. Royal 21 May 49

Col Thomas W. Blackburn 28 Jun 49

81st Fighter-Interceptor Wing:

Col Thomas W. Blackburn 20 Jan 50

Col Gladwyn E. Pinkston 28 Apr 50

81st Fighter-Bomber Wing:

Col Gladwyn E. Pinkston 1 Apr 54

Col Harold N. Holt 2 Jun 54

Col Ivan W. McElroy 10 Jun 55

Col Lester L. Krause, Jr. 18 Jun 57

Col Henry L. Crouch, Jr. 8 Jul 57

81st Tactical Fighter Wing:

Col Henry L. Crouch, Jr. 8 Jul 58

Col James R. Dubose, Jr. 6 May 60

Col Eugene L. Strickland 9 Jul 60

Col William C. Clark 9 Jul 62

Col Robin Olds 9 Aug 63

Brig Gen Dewitt R. Searles 26 Jul 65

Col Ramon R. Melton 8 Jul 67

Col George S. Dorman 5 Jul 68

Col Devol Brett 25 Sep 68

Col David J. Schmerbeck 29 Aug 69

Col John C. Bartholf 6 Mar 70

Col James W. Enos 4 Sep 70

Col Dwaine L. Weatherwax 22 Jun 71

Brig Gen Charles E. Word 16 Aug 72

Col John R. Paulk 19 Apr 74

Brig Gen Clyde H. Garner 14 May 75

Col Gerald D. Larson 11 Feb 76

Col Rudolph F. Wacker 6 May 77

Col Gorden E. Williams 7 Aug 79

Col Richard M. Pascoe 24 Apr 81

Col Dale C. Tabor 20 Aug 82

Col Lester P. Brown, Jr. 20 Mar 84

Col William A. Studer 26 Mar 86

Col Harold H. Rhoden 30 Jul 87

Col Tad J. Oelstrom 5 Aug 88

Col Roger R. Radcliff 12 Jul 91

81st Training Wing:

Brig Gen Karen S. Rankin 1 Jul 93

Brig Gen Andrew J. Pelak, Jr. 7 Nov 95

Brig Gen John M. Speigel 4 Aug 97

Brig Gen Elizabeth A. Harrell 14 Jul 99

Brig Gen Roosevelt Mercer, Jr. 5 Sept 00

Brig Gen Michael W. Peterson 3 May 02

Brig Gen William T. Lord 20 Apr 04

Brig Gen Paul F. Capasso 15 Nov 05

Brig Gen Gregory J. Touhill 2 Oct 07

Brig Gen Ian R. Dickenson 20 May 09

Brig Gen Andrew M. Mueller 2 Aug 10

Brig Gen Bradley D. Spacy 18 May 12

Brig Gen Patrick C. Higby 23 Aug 13

Col Michele C. Edmondson 26 Jun 15

Col Debra A. Lovette 2 Jun 17

Col Heather W. Blackwell 16 May 19

Col William H. Hunter 17 Jun 21

81st Training Wing:

Col Jason D. Allen 13 Dec 22

Col Billy E. Pope, Jr 23 Mar 23

KEESLER SENIOR ENLISTED ADVISORS

Keesler Technical Training Center:

CMSgt Thomas R. Silk Feb 73 – Mar 74

CMSgt Tommy J. Adkins Mar 74 – Aug 74

CMSgt James J. Blevins Aug 74 – Sep 75

CMSgt Tommy J. Adkins Sep 75 – May 78

CMSgt Alfred R. Smith May 78 – Nov 78

CMSgt Robert G. Cornelius Nov 78 – Jun 82

CMSgt Billy W. Carter Jun 82 – Mar 84

CMSgt James J. Vollmuth Mar 84 – Jun 87

Keesler Training Center:

CMSgt Thomas E. York Jun 87 – Sep 92

CMSgt Charles Taylor Sep 92 – Sep 93

81st Training Wing:

CMSgt Steven T. Wyrick Sep 93 – Aug 95

CMSgt Janice S. McCuiston Aug 95 – May 97

COMMAND CHIEF MASTER SERGEANTS

81st Training Wing:

CMSgt Edward A. Walden May 97 – Sep 99

CMSgt Michael McCann Sep 99 – Nov 01

CMSgt Robert Tappana Nov 01 – Aug 03

CMSgt Thomas M. Golden Aug 03 – Aug 04

CMSgt Aliquippa Allen Aug 04 – Nov 06

CMSgt Ronald S. Owens Nov 06 – Feb 08

CMSgt Alexandre Perry Feb 08 – Aug 09

CMSgt Lonnie Slater Aug 09 – Mar 11

CMSgt Curtis A. Jennings Mar 11 - Aug 11

CMSgt Angelica M. Johnson Aug 11 – Sep 13

CMSgt Ferrell D. Thomas Sep 13 - Dec 14

CMSgt Harry L. Hutchinson Dec 14 – Aug 16

CMSgt Vegas M. Clark Aug 16 – Aug 17

CMSgt Kenneth R. Carter Aug 17 – Nov 18

CMSgt David A. Pizzuto Nov 18 – May 20

COMMAND CHIEF MASTER SERGEANTS

81st Training Wing:

CMSgt Sarah M. Esparza Jun 20 – Jun 23

CMSgt Michael J. Venning Jul 23 - Present

LINEAGE

15 Apr 48: Established as 81st Fighter Wing.

1 May 48: Activated.

20 Jan 50: Redesignated as 81st Fighter-Interceptor Wing.

1 Apr 54: Redesignated as 81st Fighter-Bomber Wing.

8 Jul 58: Redesignated as 81st Tactical Fighter Wing.

1 Jul 93: Inactivated.

1 Jul 93: Redesignated as 81st Training Wing and reactivated.

HONORS

Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards

(Awarded to the 81st Fighter Wing)

28 Mar 59 - 30 Jun 61

1 Jul 61 - 30 Jun 63

1 Jun 66 - 31 May 68

1 Jul 68 - 30 Jun 70

1 Jul 76 - 30 Jun 78

1 Jul 79 - 30 Jun 81

1 Jul 81 - 30 Jun 83

1 Jun 89 - 31 May 91

1 Jun 91 - 30 Jun 93

(Awarded to the 81st Training Wing)

1 Jul 99 - 30 Jun 01

1 Jul 01 - 30 Jun 02

1 Jun 05 - 30 Jun 06

1 Jul 07 - 30 Jun 09

1 Jul 09 – 30 Jun 11

1 Jul 11 – 30 Jun 13

1 Jul 13 – 30 Jun 15

1 Jul 15 – 30 Jun 17

1 Jul 17 – 30 Jun 18

1 Jul 18 – 30 Jun 20

BESTOWED HONORS

The 81st Training Wing is authorized to display all World War II Campaign Streamers awarded

to the 81st Fighter Group prior to 1 May 1948.

European-African-Middle Eastern Theater Campaigns

Algeria-French Morocco

Anzio

Naples-Foggia

Rome-Arno

Tunisia

Air Combat, European-African-Middle Eastern Theater

Asiatic-Pacific Theater Campaigns

China Offensive

China Defensive

Aircraft Assigned

81st Training Wing: *

F-47 1948-1949

F-80 1949

F-86 1949-1955

F-51 1951

F-84 1954-1959

F-101 1958-1966

F-4 1965-1979

F-16 1988-1990

A-10 1979-1993

*Includes aircraft assigned to 81st Fighter Wing, 1948-1950; 81st Fighter- Interceptor Wing, 1950-

1954; 81st Fighter-Bomber Wing, 1954-1958; 81st Tactical Fighter Wing, 1958-1993; and 81st

Training Wing, 1993-Present. The 81st Fighter Group was a component of the wing from 1 May

1948 to 8 February 1955.

CHRONOLOGY

(1941 through 2021)

1941

6 Mar The War Department announced that the Army Air Corps would establish a

technical school at Biloxi.

12 Jun The War Department activated Army Air Corps Station No. 8, Aviation Mechanics

School, Biloxi, Mississippi, and assigned it to Technical Training Command.

25 Jul The base opened its first facility, a medical dispensary, in the Naval Reserve Park.

21 Aug The first group of recruits arrived for basic training.

25 Aug The War Department designated Army Air Corps Station No. 8 as Keesler Army

Airfield.

8 Sep The 310th Technical School Squadron, a basic training unit, was the first squadron

to move from tent city to new barracks.

20 Sep The Army Air Corps Replacement Training Center (Technician) was activated to

train new recruits.

29 Sep The Airplane and Engine Mechanics School began operation.

1 Dec The Post Exchange (PX) opened its first full-service store on Keesler Field.

1942

27 Feb The first airplane mechanics class graduated.

7 Mar Keesler Field opened its first hospital and the facility admitted 92 patients during

its first day of operation.

1943

9 Mar The 1002d Quartermaster Company, Keesler’s first boat rescue unit, activated

and headquartered at the Biloxi Yacht Club.

10 May The first women's unit, Detachment, Women's Army Auxiliary Corps (WAAC),

activated. About two weeks later, the unit was redesignated as the 749th WAAC

Post Headquarters Company.

1 Jun Workers built a 10,000-seat outdoor theater adjacent to the Officers Club.

1 Jul The War Department leased Horn Island for chemical warfare studies.

29 Nov The Airplane and Engine Mechanics School received its first foreign students – 13

Chinese officers.

13 Dec Signal Corps Technical Training School opened. It was discontinued in February

1944.

27 Dec The first bank, Keesler Field Bank, opened.

1944

1 May The 3704th Army Air Forces Base Unit (Technical School and Basic Training

Center) activated as Keesler's host unit.

1 Jul The B-24 Co-Pilot School opened. The school added B-32 co-pilot training in

October, but it was discontinued in January 1945. The B-24 Co-Pilot School ceased

operations in March 1945.

25 Jul Keesler officials opened recreation facilities on Ship Island.

31 Jul The War Department assigned its only emergency rescue school to Keesler. As a

result, the 3704th Army Air Forces Base Unit (Technical School and Basic Training

Center) was redesignated as the 3704th Army Air Forces Base Unit (Technical

School, Basic Training Center, and Emergency Rescue School).

Army Air Forces Base Unit (Technical School and Basic Training Center) was

redesignated as the 3704th Army Air Forces Base Unit (Technical School, Basic

Training Center, and Emergency Rescue School).

1945

1 Sep Forty-five (45) Civil Service employees resumed a five-day, 40-hour work-week.

1946

Apr-Jun The War Department inactivated all Army Air Forces airplane mechanics schools

except for Keesler.

23 Apr Keesler disbanded its Emergency Rescue School and redesignated the 3704th Army

Air Forces Base Unit (Technical School, Basic Training Center, and Emergency

Rescue School) as the 3704th Army Air Forces Base Unit (Technical School and

Basic Training Center).

30 Jun Basic training ended at Keesler. As a result, the 3704th again changed its name,

becoming the 3704th Army Air Forces Base Unit (Technical School).

1 Jul The Air Chemical School opened.

14 Dec Keesler Women's Army Corps detachment inactivated.

1947

1 May Officials in Washington announced that the radar school at Boca Raton, Florida,

would move to Keesler.

Jul-Sep Keesler Federal Credit Union was chartered. The member ship fee was 25 cents.

18 Sep The worst hurricane to strike the Gulf Coast since 1915 made landfall south of New

Orleans. (The practice of naming hurricanes did not begin until 1953.) The Biloxi

area recorded winds in excess of 100 miles per hour and storm surge of 15 feet or

more. Beach front buildings and seafood processing facilities sustained heavy

damage. Keesler personnel conducted anti-looting patrols, rescued stranded storm

victims, and made emergency repairs.

14 Nov The Air Force officially transferred its Boca Raton radar school to Keesler. Classes

began in January 1948.

1948

13 Jan Keesler Field became Keesler Air Force Base.

26 Aug Keesler replaced its base unit (3704th Air Force Base Unit) type organization with

a wing base plan when Air Training Command designated and organized the 3380th

Technical Training Wing. Also on this date, designated, organized, and assigned to

the wing were the 3380th Medical Squadron (station hospital), the 3380th Air Base

Group, the 3380th Technical Training Group, and the 3380th Maintenance and

Supply Group.

28 Aug Air Training Command discontinued the 3704th Air Force Base Unit (Technical

School).

1 Nov The 3380th Medical Squadron was redesignated as the 3380th Station Medical

Squadron.

1949

1 Mar The Air Force announced that the Airplane and Engine Mechanics Department at

Keesler would transfer to Sheppard AFB, Texas beginning in April.

1 Jun The Radio Operations School moved from Scott Air Force Base, Illinois, to

Keesler. The first course began on 15 June. Nine of the students were Air Force

women. This was the first time Keesler had operated a coeducational technical

course.

Summer The Air Chemical School transferred to Lowry AFB, Colorado.

9 Nov Airplane and engine mechanics training ended.

1950

27 Jun The 3380th Station Medical Squadron was redesignated as the 3380th Medical

Group.

1951

Jul-Sep Keesler's hospital became the first in the Air Force to establish an appointment

system for its outpatient clinics.

1953

Jan-Jun Airmen began occupying new dormitory style barracks in the area nicknamed the

Triangle.

16 Oct The 3380th Medical Group was redesignated as the 3380th USAF Hospital.

1 Dec Contractors began clearing the site for a new $5.5 million base hospital.

1957

8 Feb Tactical Air Command's Air-Ground Operations School arrived from Southern

Pines, North Carolina. Its T-33s were the first jets assigned to Keesler.

1958

1 Jul Scott Air Force Base began transferring its control tower operator and radio

operator general courses to Keesler. The process was completed by June 1959.

The 3380th USAF Hospital was redesignated as the USAF Hospital Keesler.

1959

1 Jan Air Training Command redesignated the 3380th Technical Training Wing as the

Keesler Technical Training Center and the 3380th Technical Training Group

became the 3380th Technical School, USAF. All student squadrons became school

squadrons.

20 May The SM-65 Atlas Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) ground training courses

began.

1961

1 Dec Keesler built a closed-circuit television studio to teach electronics principles. The

studio was placed in Building 409, a former bowling alley.

1962

30 Jun The base closed its recreational facilities on Ship Island.

1964

24 Mar Officials dedicated a new NCO Club, building 2221.

1965

1 Apr The last C-47 left Keesler. These aircraft had been used for ground approach radar

training, but the adoption of less expensive simulators made their use unnecessary.

9 Sep Hurricane Betsy lashed the Gulf Coast with winds over 100 miles per hour and

storm surge as high as 15 feet above normal. Downtown Biloxi suffered heavy

flooding and wind damage. Keesler personnel assisted with rescue efforts, storm

clean-up, and emergency repairs.

1967

15 Jan The command activated the 3389th Pilot Training Squadron at Keesler. This unit

trained foreign pilots under the Military Assistance Program (MAP) using the T-28

aircraft. Classes began on 23 January 1967.

1968

11 Jun Keesler’s technical school graduated its one-millionth student.

1 Jul With Amarillo AFB, Texas, closing, Air Training Command moved its personnel

and administration courses to Keesler. The transfer increased Keesler's student load

by 20 percent.

1969

1 Jul Keesler’s student load peaked at 14,000 during the Vietnam War.

Air Training Command (ATC) redesignated the USAF Hospital Keesler as the

USAF Medical Center, Keesler. At the same time, the facility became one of six

regional medical centers in the Air Force hospital system.

18 Aug Hurricane Camille made landfall at Waveland, Mississippi, clocking wind gusts of

over 200 miles per hour and pushing water surges as high as 35 feet above normal.

More than 260 people were killed, and communities in five states were devastated.

Keesler officials estimated on base damage at $3.5 million. During a subsequent

inspection visit, President Richard Nixon praised the base's heroic rescue and

community assistance efforts.

1970

15 May Groundbreaking ceremonies took place for the new Base Exchange (BX) shopping

center.

1971

4 Jan Keesler reorganized under the multi-deputy system, and the air base group

commander became the base commander.

1 Mar Air Training Command (ATC) activated the 3380th Student Group and assigned it

18 student squadrons.

1 Jul Kitchen Patrol, or KP, ended at the base when civilian contractors assumed

responsibility for food preparation.

6 Oct Base officials held a groundbreaking ceremony for the new Commissary.

1972

1 Aug Air Training Command (ATC) inactivated the 3380

Technical School at Keesler

and, on the same date, activated the USAF School of Applied Aerospace Sciences,

Keesler. ATC assigned it to the Keesler Technical Training Center.

1973

25 Apr The Air Force Reserve activated the 920th Tactical Airlift Group at Keesler and

equipped it with C-130s.

4 May The T-28 pilot training program ended after graduating 908 foreign students. The

majority of them came from South Vietnam.

18 Jun The 53d Weather Reconnaissance Squadron, a Military Airlift Command (MAC)

unit, moved from Ramey AFB, Puerto Rico, to Keesler.

21 Dec Keesler became the prime technical training center for the airborne warning and

control system (AWACS).

1974

10 Jun Blake Fitness Center opened.

1975

18 Aug The first of seven EC-130 aircraft belonging to the 7th Airborne Command and

Control Squadron arrived at Keesler.

1976

1 Jan A $31.6 million Composite Medical Facility was built to give the medical center a

separate clinical research laboratory.

Biloxi city officials obtained government approval for an access bridge which

would connect Keesler with Interstate 110.

Workers began constructing a $3.6 million facility to house a reception center, as

well as personnel, finance, and traffic management offices. In 1978, the building

was renamed the Sablich Center.

Summer The City of Biloxi began acquiring right of way acquisition along Pass Christian

Road between the base and Debuys Road so that it could be widened to four lanes.

The Department of Defense would pay for 90 percent of the $3 million project.

30 Dec Student load fell below 5,000.

1977

1 Apr HQ ATC inactivated the USAF School of Applied Aerospace Sciences, Keesler,

and activated the 3300th Technical Training Wing and assigned it to Keesler

Technical Training Center.

Air Training Command (ATC) established the USAF Technical Training School,

Keesler, and assigned it to the 3300th Technical Training Wing.

1978

1 Jan The USAF Technical Training School, Keesler, transferred from the 3300th

Technical Training Wing to Keesler Technical Training Center.

Air Training Command (ATC) inactivated the 3300th Technical Training Wing.

1979

1 Jan Construction began on a new logistics/materiel complex, which would later be

dedicated as the Taylor Logistics Center.

13 Sep Hurricane Frederick struck, causing about $11 million in property damage on the

base. In addition to base clean up, many Air Force personnel assisted with recovery

efforts in several communities along the Gulf Coast.

1 Nov Air Training Command designated and activated the 3300th Technical Training

Wing. Air Training Command reassigned the USAF Technical Training School,

Keesler, from Keesler Technical Training Center to the 3300th Technical Training

Wing.

1980

4 Apr Base officials dedicated a new control tower. It replaced a tower that had been in

use since 1941.

31 Dec Student load climbed to 6,891.

1981

13 Mar Base officials dedicated the new childcare and dependent- care centers.

27 Apr The USAF Medical Center opened a new $45.3 million clinic addition.

1 Aug As a result of the Professional Air Traffic Controllers Organization strike, the

3300th Technical Training Wing had to increase its production of air traffic

controllers.

1982

24 Apr Keesler Air Force Base hosted the first Special Olympics for the mentally

challenged. The event drew 350 participants.

4 May The new Medical Food Inspection Facility, which also housed the base's new

veterinary clinic, began operation.

1 Jun Keesler lost its postal training courses when the Department of Defense

consolidated all training at Fort Benjamin Harrison, Indiana.

1983

1 Jan Surgeons at the medical center began performing cardiovascular surgery.

1 Nov Keesler’s Air Force Reserve unit, the 920th Tactical Airlift Group, inactivated. Its

personnel and equipment were absorbed by the reserve’s newly-activated 403rd

Rescue and Reconnaissance Wing.

1984

10 Aug The base dedicated a new $4.7 million civil engineering complex.

1985

2 Sep Hurricane Elena struck the coast, causing $5 million damage to Keesler.

1986

1 Oct Morse code systems radio operator training moved to Fort Devens, Massachusetts.

This training had been at Keesler since 1949, when the general radio operator

course moved from Scott Air Force Base.

1987

15 Mar Volunteers completed two super playgrounds on the base using the previous year's

energy savings plus money donated by on and off base personnel.

2 Jun A new $7 million computer training facility opened.

1988

1 Mar The Family Support Center was established and located in the Sablich Center.

30 Sep Average daily student load was 3,026—the lowest in the history of the technical

school to date.

4 Oct Through the efforts of the John C. Stennis Chapter of the Air Force Association, a

Boulevard of Flags was established on Larcher Boulevard.

1989

1 Feb Builders began working on a new operations facility for the 3380th Security Police

Squadron. It would replace the converted World War II barracks that the squadron

used as a headquarters.

Contractors began building a new squadron operations center that would also house

three tenant organizations. They included the 7th Airborne Command and Control

Squadron, the 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron and the 24th Weather

Squadron.

1990

28 Aug Members of the 7th Airborne Command and Control Squadron deployed to

Southwest Asia in support of Operation Desert Shield.

1991

22 Jan Over 260 Keesler medical personnel deployed to various locations in support of

Operation Desert Storm.

30 Jun Military Airlift Command inactivated the 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron.

The 53rd's hurricane hunter mission transferred to the 403rd Airlift Wing, Keesler's

Air Force Reserve unit.

12 Jul Keesler AFB celebrated its 50th anniversary.

1992

14 Feb Air Training Command (ATC) redesignated the technical training center as Keesler

Training Center, the 3300

Technical Training Wing became a group, and all

technical training groups became squadrons. At the same time, Air Training

Command inactivated the 3305th Student Group and its subordinate units. Also, in

line with this reorganization, the command redesignated the Keesler Technical

Training Center Medical Center as the Keesler Medical Center.

6 Apr The Department of the Navy assumed control of the base printing plant.

15 Sep All 3380th-designated units were redesignated as 393rd units.

1 Dec All Air Force weather courses transferred from Chanute AFB, Illinois, to Keesler.

Classes were temporarily held in Allee and Wolfe Halls while new facilities were

under construction.

1993

16 Feb Fisher House was dedicated. It provided temporary quarters for families of

seriously ill patients at Keesler Medical Center.

29 Apr A new two-story 87,000-square foot weather training complex was officially

dedicated.

1 Jul HQ USAF redesignated Air Training Command (ATC), headquartered at Randolph

AFB, Texas, as Air Education and Training Command (AETC).

HQ AETC activated Second Air Force at Keesler and made the Numbered Air

Force responsible for all technical training in the command.

The command inactivated Keesler Training Center and all its subordinate

organizations, except for the 393rd Technical Training Group, which was

redesignated as the 81st Technical Training Group.

HQ AETC activated the 81st Training Wing and assigned it to Second Air Force.

The wing assumed the old center mission. Major components of the wing included

the 81st Technical Training, 81st Support, 81st Logistics, and 81st Medical Groups.

HQ Keesler Medical Center inactivated, and HQ AETC activated the 81st Medical

Group to operate the base hospital, which was still known as Keesler Medical

Center.

The First Sergeants Academy moved to Maxwell AFB, Alabama. At the same time,

HQ AETC reassigned the academy to Air University.

The paralegal service specialist and chapel management courses moved to

Maxwell, falling under the purview of Air University.

1994

15 Apr Keesler's new Officer's Club was dedicated. The old club, which had been one of

three original buildings on Keesler property, closed.

1 Jul The 45th Airlift Squadron was activated and assigned to the 81st Training Group.

Equipped with C-12C/F Huron and C-21A Learjet aircraft, it brought flying

training back to Keesler for the first time since 1973.

10 Jul Members of the 81st Security Police Squadron went to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, in

support of Operation Sea Signal, the resettlement of Haitian refugees.

25 Aug The 81st Medical Group’s functions were divided among four newly activated

Units. They consisted of the 81st Medical Operations, 81st Aerospace Medicine,

81st Dental, and 81st Medical Support Squadrons.

24 Sep Crotwell Theater closed its movie-showing function. However, movies still

continued to be shown at Welch Theater in the Triangle area.

30 Sep The 7th Airborne Command and Control Squadron, a base tenant reporting to Air

Combat Command, was reassigned to Davis-Monthan AFB, Arizona.

1995

31 Jan Keesler's Aero Club closed its doors after more than 40 years of operation. The

Aero Club was established in November 1954.

1996

25 Jun Terrorists detonated a massive car bomb near the Khobar towers in Dhahran, Saudi

Arabia. Eleven Keesler personnel were deployed to the Air Base. They included

Staff Sergeant Rondal Burns of the 333 TRS who was seriously injured and

subsequently awarded the Purple Heart. Furthermore, SrA Martie Capoeman of the

Wing’s Public Affairs office received an Air Force Achievement Medal with ‘V’

(for valor) device for her performance in providing emergency medical care.

4 Oct The demolition of Cole Manor (Bldg. 7401) signaled the beginning of “Triangle

Vision.” It started a $123 million project to replace the ten early 1950s era

dormitories by the year 2002.

1997

19 Feb In a ceremony attended by hundreds, Keesler officials raised the USAF 50th

Anniversary Flag on the base flagpole adjacent to the Wing Headquarters building.

The ceremony marked the first in a yearlong series of events intended to recognize

the Air Force’s founding on 18 Sep 1947.

24 Feb Lieutenant General John C. Griffith, AETC Vice-Commander, led an official party

in breaking ground for the first construction phase of Triangle Vision.

1 Jul Mirroring an Air Force-wide change, the 81st Security Police Squadron was

redesignated as the 81st Security Forces Squadron.

18 Sep Keesler capped off the year’s 50th Air Force Birthday celebration by burying a time

capsule at the foot of the base flagpole and with a parade on Governors’ Field.

16 Oct The 338th Training Squadron graduated the last class of students to attend the

Satellite and Wideband Communications Course at Keesler. Thereafter, the U.S.

Army Signal Center at Fort Gordon, Georgia would be responsible for conducting

all DoD Satwide training. This consolidation was ordered in 1994 by the

Interservice Training Review Organization (ITRO).

1998

9 Mar Keesler’s newest facility opened, a 6,000 square foot Marina Recreation Center

(Bldg. 6726). The $1 million center hosted fishing, boating, and sailing activities,

as well as other outdoor programs.

26-28 Sep Hurricane Georges, one of the most destructive storms in history to date, slammed

into the Mississippi Gulf Coast, causing major damage to Keesler and the

surrounding community. The Category IV hurricane swept into Keesler with

sustained winds of 142 miles per hour and gusts to 179 miles per hour, flooding

over 100 family houses, downing hundreds of trees, and power lines, and causing

the loss of power to major pockets of the base. While Keesler suffered no fatalities

during the storm, elsewhere over 400 people were killed, including 201 people in

the Dominican Republic.

1999

17-18 Feb The 403rd Wing, Keesler’s Reserve tenant unit, received the first of the new

C-130J trainer aircraft. The “J” model aircraft replaces the 1960s era aircraft,

lowering operating costs and enhancing performance and capabilities of the unit’s

weather reconnaissance mission.

2002

15 Jan The 403rd Wing replaced its older WC-130H aircraft for the newer C-130J models.

10 Dec Keesler AFB’s “giant voice” project was completed. The system enabled the

command post to broadcast weather/emergency notifications across the entire base

through pre-positioned speakers.

2003

26 Aug Building 2603 was named Lott Hall, in honor of Mississippi Senator Trent Lott.

The 42,000 square foot facility contained a C-130J full motion flight training

simulator, and the 45th Airlift Squadron staff offices.

2004

31 Mar Detachment 4, Air Mobility Command (AMC) Air Operations Squadron

inactivated at Keesler.

31 Dec Keesler’s Defense Reutilization and Marketing Office (DRMO) transferred their

incoming property operations to Eglin AFB, Florida.

2005

3 Jan A 23,000 square foot mini-mall, that included a shoppette, concessions, and food

court, opened for business in the “Triangle” area.

2 Feb Keesler AFB’s runaway and drainage system underwent a $2.9 million

Renovation – the first major revamp since 1986.

13 May The 2005 Base Realignment and Closure commission recommended Keesler

Medical Center for realignment.

13 Jun The first Sexual Assault Response Coordinator stood up an office at Keesler.

29 Aug Hurricane Katrina made landfall near the Louisiana/ Mississippi border as a

Category 3 hurricane with sustained winds of 120-mph. Record storm surge peaked

at 34 feet and came ashore along the entire Gulf Coast and into Alabama. The local

community lay in ruin and Keesler AFB’s damage was estimated at $950 million.

Fortunately, no on-base deaths or injuries were reported.

2006

28 Mar Keesler’s newest technical training facility, Cody Hall, was dedicated in honor of

Captain Howard Cody. The new 193,000-square foot facility was built using

concrete, steel, and brick at a cost of $23.5 million.

1 Jun After serving Keesler customers for 55 years, the Pecan Dining facility closed as

part of an AETC cost-cutting requirement.

22 Sep Keesler’s military family housing construction project moved forward with the

award of a $287.8 million contract for constructing 1,067 new homes. The massive

construction project by Hunt Building Company was driven by Hurricane Katrina

which destroyed or damaged a large inventory of houses.

19 Dec Ten Keesler students graduated from the last 1A3 airborne mission specialist course

in the 332nd Training Squadron, as part of the enlisted aircrew training transition

to the Career Enlisted Aviator Center of Excellence at Lackland AFB, Texas.

2007

8 Jan After almost a year's delay due to Hurricane Katrina, Keesler Medical Center

opened its new labor, delivery, recovery, and postpartum unit.

31 Jan Keesler’s temporary commissary opened a new deli. The deli was part of over

$700,000 in improvements. They included an external freezer storage building, a

produce storage building, and four new freezer display cases. Moreover, the

commissary added a 10-ton air conditioning unit for the expanded freezer display,

and five air conditioning drops above the cash registers.

29 Oct A ribbon cutting was held for a newly renovated facility for the introduction of a

new basic financial management and staff officer course curriculum. The course

represented the largest financial management curriculum change in 20 years.

7 Nov The 81st Security Forces Squadron conducted a ribbon cutting ceremony for the

reopening of its refurbished building on Larcher Boulevard. The walls,

communications systems, flooring, ceiling grids, gutters, downspouts, and roof

systems were repaired and hurricane screens were added.

8 Nov Library communication abilities were upgraded with internet capabilities at

McBride Library.

2008

3 Apr The Sablich Center re-opened nearly three years after Katrina rebuilding began.

25 Apr Baughman Boulevard was permanently closed because of the construction of the

new Radiation Oncology Center, located between the Tyer House and Keesler

Medical Center’s emergency room.

28 Oct Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Norton Schwartz visited Keesler Airmen at an

Airmen’s Call. The general toured the base while in Biloxi to speak at the 20th

annual Salute to the Military sponsored by the Mississippi Gulf Coast Chamber of

Commerce.

19 Nov Arnold Cottage, used to lodge distinguished visitors to the base for the over six

decades, was moved to a spot behind the Larcher Chapel, where it was placed on a

new foundation and renovated. Its former location at the southwest corner of

Larcher Boulevard and Chappie James Avenue was cleared for the construction of

a training development facility.

1 Dec The largest airfield ramp repair project in Keesler history, intended to improve the

airfield's capabilities for allowing larger aircraft safely to park, was initiated.

17 Dec Maj Gen Al Flowers, 2nd Air Force commander, ceremonially started the

demolition of Avery Manor, one of the dormitories in the Triangle. There were no

plans to redevelop the area because it was in an airfield clear zone. The

building’s demolition was part of a longer-term initiative for bases to reduce

physical footprints by 20 percent by removing older, unnecessary buildings.

2009

6-13 Jun Keesler Air Force Base hosted the 2009 Conseil International du Sport Militaire

(CISM) Women's Armed Forces Soccer Championship. The tournament included

teams from Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, The Netherlands, The Republic of

South Korea and the United States.

Jul The last radio communications operations class in the 336th Training Squadron

graduated. The course, which had been taught at Keesler since 1948, graduated

about 15,000 students and employed more than 70 instructors. It merged into one

of three new career fields.

Sep Keesler established a new form of communication for personnel to share

Information, ask questions and discuss answers. Keesler's new blog, called

“Keesler Commander's Corner,” was developed by the wing commander as a

two-way communication tool.

Dec Demolition of the former Keesler Club on Larcher Boulevard began during the first

week of December. The building, located in a flood plain, was heavily damaged

during Hurricane Katrina in 2005. The cleared area was retained as green space.

2010

5 Jan The 338th Training Squadron marked the end of an era with the final graduation of

the ground radio communications apprentice maintenance course after 48 years.

Jan-Feb Medics from the 81st Medical Group deployed to Haiti in response to a devastating

earthquake and to Chile where another earthquake killed over 300 people.

22 Mar The largest military family housing construction project in Air Force history was

completed. The massive $287.8 million construction program was launched in

conjunction with Hunt Building Co. and W.G. Yates and Sons Construction Co.,

which formed a partnership to complete 1,028 housing units. The project provided

198 junior NCO family units in Thrower Park, and 136 NCO units in West Falcon

Park. Additionally, the project included 200 mixed-use units in the first phase of

Bayridge housing in the former Shadowlawn and Maltby Hall neighborhoods.

Furthermore, it added 364 homes in Northwest Falcon Park and a final 130 units

for senior NCOs and officers in Bayridge.

Apr USNORTHCOM designated Keesler AFB as a base support installation for DOD

forces responding to the crisis caused by the Deepwater Horizon oil spill.

6 Apr Keesler AFB began a new era of post hurricane Katrina reconstruction. It included

the grand opening of the newly completed, $64.5 million, 275,000 square feet

Commissary and Base Exchange facility that featured a shopping mall, food court,

and state-of-the-art pharmacy.

19 Apr A new $3.3 million postal facility on Meadows Drive opened. It replaced a wooden

structure built in 1941 that had termite problems and major flood and roof damage

from Hurricane Katrina.

15 Jun An undergraduate cyber training course for officers launched. The new course

provided initial training for 17DX cyber operations officers, a career field that

replaced 33SX communications officers.

17 Sep The $26.5 million Bay Breeze Event Center opened with a day of celebrations

including the annual Keesler vs. Biloxi Bay Chamber of Commerce golf

tournament, tours of the center, free entertainment and food, children's activities,

prizes and giveaways. The Bay Breeze Event Center was located on the golf course

across from the Bay Ridge housing area. It provided myriad services to Keesler

personnel and to local neighbors and communities.

7 Dec Fifteen officers from Keesler’s first Undergraduate Cyber space Training course

graduated after twenty-four weeks of training focused on developing experts in

Cyber-space operations. The inaugural initial skills training for new cyber space

Operator officer accession replaced Basic Communications Officer Training. The

course was part of the Air Force’s vision for a fully developed Air Force cyberspace

operations workforce. It required operational rigor and mission assurance for

effectively establishing, controlling, and leveraging cyberspace capabilities.

2011

14 Apr 333rd TRS Commander Lt Col Douglas Short officially retired the squadron

mascot, the “Mad Duck,” replacing it with a new one, the “Spartan”. A formal

retirement ceremony was held at the Bay Breeze Events Center, where the “Mad

Duck” received a Meritorious Mascot Medal and letter of appreciation for 19 years

of honorable service.

18 May The 333rd TRS and the 81 TRW hosted a “Salute to Cyber Training: The Future is

Now” banquet honoring the first group of students coming out of the new cyber

program. The event was held at the Bay Breeze Event Center (BBEC), and featured

keynote speaker Mr. Jim Christy, a cyber-crime investigations special agent.

Jun Keesler marked the 70th anniversary of its activation with a month-long celebration

including a birthday party and a time capsule collection effort.

17 June 332nd TRS stood down as the result of a manpower study recommending an

81 TRG reorganization. Lt Col Trevor Wall, the squadron’s last commander,

presided over a ceremony that day, and on 29 June, went on to take command of

the 338th TRS.

20 Jun The 338th Operating Location A (OL-A) at Keesler Air Force Base officially stood

down.

23-26 Jun Keesler’s Gospel Service celebrated its 40th anniversary and record as the longest

running Gospel Service in the Air Force. The theme for the celebration was

“Pressing Towards the Mark,” and there were a variety of events throughout the

weekend. They culminated in a morning ceremony at Triangle Chapel.

15 Jul The 45th Airlift Squadron, which operated C-21 aircraft training as part of the 314th

Airlift Wing, deactivated. The 45th AS had been assigned to Keesler AFB since

1994.

15 Jul C-21 aircraft training ended at Keesler with the inactivation of the 45th Airlift

Squadron. The squadron had operated at Keesler since 1994. The unit was first

assigned to the 81 TRW and later as a squadron assigned to the 314th Airlift Wing

at Little Rock AFB, Arkansas.

2012

20 Apr The 81 SFS conducted a ribbon cutting on its new multi-million dollar in-door

firing range.

26-29 Aug Hurricane Isaac impacted Mississippi Gulf Coast. Keesler AFB closed on 28-29

August. Full operations were restored on 30 August.

15 Oct 81 TRG implemented Teal Rope program. The program was designed to address

issues surrounding sexual assault through student involvement. The color

symbolized sexual assault awareness and victim support within the student

population.

5 Nov AETC IG deemed 81 TRW “Excellent” after a five-day Unit Compliance

Inspection, 29 Oct to 2 Nov.

2013

1 Feb Keesler Medical Center conducts ribbon-cutting ceremony for its new Back Bay

Tower. The new tower, officially opened in December 2012. It housed medical and

surgical inpatient wards, intensive care units, a new emergency department, new

labs, operation rooms, and a chiropractic clinic.

5 Apr Keesler named 2013 Air Force Installation Excellence Award winner. Keesler also

received $1 million for quality-of-life projects on the base.

16 Sep 338th TRS hosts street dedication ceremony in honor of CMSgt Richard L.

Etchberger. Chief Etchberger, a graduate of Keesler’s Radar Maintenance Course,

was killed on 11 March 1968, after placing three wounded comrades and himself

onto a rescue helicopter after an early morning raid on Lima Site 85, a radar facility

in Laos. Chief Etchberger was mortally wounded by enemy ground fire.

8 Oct Keesler civilian employees return to work after a four-day federal government

shut down.

2014

28 Feb The McBride Library closed. Many of the library’s daily functions transferred to

the Vandenberg Community Center where a smaller “electronic” library opened on

10 March 2014. The new library provided patrons access to computers and e-check-

out of magazines and books. A limited number of library books transferred to the

new library, but they were only available for in-house use.

29 May Biloxi City celebrates its Preservation in May 2014 Program event, “Keesler Air

Force Base: As Biloxi as Boiled Shrimp and Barq’s,” at the Biloxi Visitors Center.

Keesler AFB opened a 90-day exhibit at the center that displayed the base’s

history and its relationship to Biloxi.

4 Jun Biloxi Chamber of Commerce hosted the Keesler AFB Flag Sponsor Appreciation

reception at the city’s Visitors Center. General Higby, the guest speaker at the

reception, thanked local business and civic organizations that contributed funds that

enabled the base to purchase two sets of the 50 state and six territorial flags that

hang on display along Larcher Boulevard – “Boulevard of Flags.” The “Boulevard

of Flags” was initially established with donations from the Air Force Association’s

John C. Stennis Chapter, Keesler AFB, and other groups in 1988.

25 Jun HQ AETC activated Operating Location (OL) A, 81st Communications Squadron

(CS) at Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola, Florida. Operating Location A

organization change moved communications support for AETC organizations in

the NAS Pensacola region. They transitioned from the 479th Operations Support

Squadron (NAS Pensacola) and aligned them under the 81 CS (Keesler AFB).

14 Jul The Air Force began offering Knowledge Operations courses at Keesler AFB. They

split it into the two specialties of Knowledge Management and Administration on

1 May 2014. The Air Force did this to improve administrative support provided to

commanders across the service.

15 Dec The 81 TRW was graded “Effective” by the AETC IG after an eight-day Unit

Effectiveness Inspection. The inspection team used a 5-tier grading scale and

validated the unit’s discipline, effectiveness, efficiency, readiness, and compliance

using standards set forth in AFI 90-201 and applicable MAJCOM guidance. The

wing was inspected in four Major Graded Areas (MGA) and by HQ AETC for

Adequacy of Resources.

15 Dec The 335th TRS graduated its last class of students in Avionics Fundamentals. The

fundamentals class and 59 related avionics courses transferred to Sheppard AFB,

Texas on 5 January 2015.

2015

28-29 Mar Keesler AFB hosted an airshow and open house. The USAF’s Thunderbirds and

the Army’s Golden Knights were key acts. This was Keesler’s first airshow since

2011.

30 Apr The final paper edition of the Keesler News was published. The final edition ended

the paper’s 61-year continuous publication.

Nov The 81 Training Support Squadron (81 TRSS) gained Second Air Force’s (2AF)

Military Training Leader (MTL) Schoolhouse. The 2 AF transferred the MTL

schoolhouse from the 37 TRSS of the 37th Training Group, Joint Base San

Antonio-Lackland (JB-SAL).

2016

Jan The 81 SFS personnel in conjunction with PAE and the Infrastructure Division

implemented two courses of action to mitigate traffic congestion at all three gates.

First, the SFS increased the number of entry controllers from two to four at the

Meadows Street gate. Second, the SFS changed one of the two outbound lanes of

Meadows Street gate into an inbound traffic lane between the hours of 6:00 and

7:00 a.m. Eventually, the third inbound lane became permanent.

26 Feb The 81st Training Group’s quarterly drill down on 26 February 2016 “kicked off”

the wing’s 75th anniversary celebration. Colonel Edmondson unveiled the wing’s

anniversary logo during the drill down. As Keesler had been part of the Gulf Coast

for 75 years, community leaders also attended the drill down.

8 Mar The 81st Force Support Squadron (FSS) and the 403d FSS, of Keesler’s largest

tenant unit, the 403d Wing, merged to form one Total Force Support

Squadron (TFSS) and provide comprehensive Force Support services to all Airmen

assigned to the base, regardless of component affiliation. The merger was the end

product of Secretary of the Air Force’s TFSS initiative began in 2010.

Spring 81 MSG submits family camp proposal to the Air Force Non-Appropriated Funds

Council for approval.

3 May Biloxi’s JLUS application was approved by OEA in September 2015. After Biloxi

received funding for the JLUS, Matrix Design Group, consultant for JLUS, formed

three committees and began the process of the land use study by subject matter

experts. The kick-off event with all three committees present to discuss the JLUS

occurred on 3 May 2016.

Jun The Keesler Air Force Base community celebrated the 75th anniversary of the

installation.

3 Jun Base leaders, community partners, and Biloxi elected representatives gathered at

the Biloxi Visitors Center on 3 June 2016 to celebrate Biloxi/Keesler Partnership

Day. The evening event highlighted Keesler’s partnership with the City of Biloxi

through a city proclamation read by the city’s Mayor, Andrew Gilich, and a Keesler

historical display featuring Keesler’s 75 years on the Gulf Coast.

July Southern Mississippi Living Magazine (July 2016 edition) celebrated Keesler’s 75

years by highlighting Keesler’s past and its present in stories and pictures. The

magazine also featured a Keesler AFB timeline between pages 33-51.

4 Nov Colonel Michele Edmondson, 81 TRW Commander hosted the 75th Anniversary

Gala. It was the final anniversary celebration to honor Keesler’s namesake, Second

Lieutenant Samuel Reeves Keesler, Jr., and the base’s 75 years in Biloxi,

Mississippi. Members of Keesler’s family attended the gala. The gala featured

historical displays, classic cars, a big band, period dancing performances, and food

catered from Biloxi’s Half Shell Oyster House.

2017__________________________________________________________________________

14 Feb the 81st Communications Squadron hosted the 22nd annual Technology Expo at

the Roberts Consolidated Aircraft Maintenance Facility at Keesler Air Force Base.

Private sector vendors provided briefings to attendees about their electronic

products.

23 Mar The first Science on a Sphere appeared at the 335th Training Squadron’s Weather

Training Complex on Keesler Air Force Base. The Department of Defense (DoD)

sent this electronic globe as its newest weather training aid. The 48-inch carbon

fiber device utilizes computers with high-end graphic cards and video projectors to

display data onto the globe.

28 Mar Major Lauren Buck, Surgical Operations Squadron (81 MSGS) general surgeon,

and her surgical team completed the first robotic surgery in the Air Force. They

utilized the da Vinci Xi robot to conduct a ventral hernia repair on a patient. This

new two-million-dollar device significantly reduced the need for the 81 MSGS to

outsource this type of procedure.

Apr The 81st Medical Group’s Cardiology Clinic began extending the CardioMEMS

HF System to selective Department of Veterans Affairs patients through a

partnership. The device is a pulmonary artery pressure censor. The Department of

Veterans Affairs partners did not have a CardioMEMS HF System. This

relationship offered training opportunities for the Airmen performing the

procedures.

13 Apr Airmen of the 81st Medical Operations Squadron carried out the first Micra

Transcatheter Pacing System for patient insertion procedure in the Air Force. They

implanted the smallest pacemaker in the world for patients with bradycardia at

Keesler Medical Center. The device is approximately the size of a vitamin and it

weighs the same as a penny.

19 May Keesler Air Force Base hosted the 2017 Special Olympics Mississippi

Summer Games 19 through 20 May. The participants competed in track and field,

weightlifting, aquatics, bowling, and other events.

1 Jun KAFB, Biloxi, and State of Mississippi leaders announced a 37 million dollar

Division Street new main gate construction project during a ceremony at KAFB.

The event highlighted the Air Force Community Partnership Program that KAFB

started on 3 May 2017.

17 Jul The 81st Training Support Squadron Military Training Leader Course moved to the

new Lott Hall building on KAFB. This upgraded facility offered more space and

better equipment.

2 Aug Detachment 1 of the 352nd Battlefield Airman Training Squadron

(Det.1, 352nd BATS) activated at. Keesler Air Force Base. Captain Jesse Sullivan,

Det. 1, 352nd BATS commander, assumed command of the unit from Major Trent

Joy, 352d BATS commander from Pope Air Force Base, N.C. The detachment will

train mission ready combat controllers and special operations weathermen.

23 Aug The new Second Air Force (2 AF) commander, Major General Timothy Leahy,

assumed command of 2 AF from Major General Bob LaBrutta at KAFB. The

change of command ceremony took place at the Levitow Training Support Facility

parade field.

24 Sep Staff Sergeants Christopher Pineda, David Campbell, and Joseph Hartsfield from

the 81st Training Support Squadron (81 TRSS) won first place in HackState at

Mississippi State University. These three Keesler Air Force Base Airmen received

the award for presenting the best safety project within a 24-hour period.

23 Oct The Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force, Kaleth O. Wright, came to Keesler Air

Force Base to for a ribbon cutting for the new Military Training Leader Course

schoolhouse. He also toured the base from 23 through 25 October 2017.

11 Nov Hundreds of KAFB Airmen participated in the Mississippi Gulf Coast Veterans

Parade in Biloxi, MS. The parade included other military units, marching bands,

and 100 floats to honor Veterans.

7 Dec Keesler Air Force Base Outdoor Recreation hosted a Christmas party at the Bay

Breeze Event Center on the installation. They offered ornament decorating, games,

cookies, and visits with Santa.

15 Dec The 81st Security Forces Squadron held a ribbon cutting ceremony for a new

security system at the West Falcon off base housing area. They demonstrated a

camera surveillance system. The 24-hour video monitoring system will deter crime.

2018__________________________________________________________________________

26 Jan Mr. David Allen, legislative assistant for Congressman Steven Palazzo from

Mississippi, visited Keesler Air Force Base. He received updates on base

construction projects from KAFB senior leaders.

22 Feb The Keesler Medical Center earned the 2017 Hospital of the Year award. The Air

Force Surgeon noted the outstanding performance of the unit.

19 Mar The Air Education and Training Command (AETC) recognized the 81st Training

Wing (81 TRW) with 2017 Innovation Challenge Mission Accomplishment award.

Additionally, the 81 TRW earned a monetary award the unit may spend for any

operations and maintenance fund purchases. The 81 TRW received this honor

during the AETC Senior Leadership Conference at Vandenberg Air Force Base,

CA. The event occurred 19 through 21 March 2018.

13 Apr A large crowd of more than 800 people attended the sixth Annual Bay Breeze

Crawfish Cook-Off at the Bay Breeze Event Center at KAFB. Twenty-one teams

competed to win free entry into the 26th Annual Mississippi Coast Coliseum

Crawfish Festival Cook-Off. The first-place trophy went to the victorious

“Craw-Fish Pot-Nahs.” team.

11 May Keesler Air Force Base hosted the 32nd Special Olympics Mississippi Summer

Games. The more than 3,000 participants enjoyed the competition. The games

included swimming, volleyball, running, bowling, and javelin.

6 Jun Senior leaders from KAFB joined local officials at the Mississippi Gulf Coast

Community Partnership Conference. They discussed providing federal assistance

to the local communities to support the military missions at the Biloxi Civic Center

in Biloxi.

6 Jul The Biloxi Police Department presented six Keesler Air Force Base Airmen with

humanitarian medals during a recognition ceremony at the Salvation Army Kroc

Center in Biloxi. The Airmen received the awards for assisting with the recovery

effort after a train collided with a bus off base on 7 March 2017.

17 Aug The 81 Force Support Squadron (81 FSS) held their grand opening of an Outdoor

Recreation Center satellite store in the Vandenberg Commons at KAFB. The 81

FSS revealed the name of the new facility is “The Outpost.” The store will provide

recreational items for Airmen.

11 Sep The Keesler Air Force Base community honored the victims of the 11 September

2001 terrorist attacks. The event took place in front of the 81 Training Wing

headquarters building.

22 Sep The 81st Training Wing (81 TRW) celebrated the 71st Air Force Birthday Ball at

the Imperial Palace Casino in Biloxi. The John C. Stennis Chapter Air Force

Association co-hosted the event with the 81 TRW.

16 Oct Hurricane Michael evacuees from Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida attended the first

of two Evacuee Open-Houses in the Bay Breeze Event Center. The participants

took advantage of one-stop assistance to help them with their evacuation. The

second open house happened on 18 October 2018.

2 Nov The 335th Training Squadron (335 TRS) and National Weather Service (NWS)

representatives demonstrated the NWS SkyWarn program to 335th TRS weather

students for the first time on KAFB. Students can earn certifications to become

official storm spotters through this 81 TRW and NWS partnership.

10 Nov Keesler Air Force Base Airmen marched in the 18th annual Gulf Coast Veterans

Day Parade in Gulfport.

19 Dec The 81st Training Wing received the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award (AFOUA).

The unit earned this honor for displaying exceptionally meritorious service

covering the period of 1 July 2015 through 30 June 2017.

2019__________________________________________________________________________

8 Jan The 338th Technical Training Squadron announced A1C Devin McDivitt

completed a 54-day Cyber Transport Course in a record-breaking 18.5 days with

95 percent score. He served in the 268th Combat Communications Squadron as a

cyber-transport technician for the Illinois Air National Guard in Springfield. A1C

McDivitt took advantage of the Air Force self-paced continuum of learning

initiative program to finish the course early.

8 Feb The Air Force Honor Guard Drill Team came to Keesler to practice their routine in

preparation for their tour season and to reveal their newest drill performance to the

entire Keesler Air Force Base population. The team is the nation's most elite Honor

Guard, serving the President of the United States, the Air Force’s most senior

leaders and performing nationwide for the American public.

18 Mar The 81 TRW/CC, Colonel Debra Lovette, held a Keesler Housing Forum at the Bay

Breeze Event Center Main Ballroom. The program provided the community the

opportunity to discuss their concerns about KAFB housing to the base leadership.

12 Apr The 81st Training Wing (81 TRW) held an Arbor Day Ceremony at the Child

Development Center (CDC). The 81st Training Wing Vice-Commander

(81 TRW/CV), Colonel Lance Burnett, read an Arbor Day proclamation during the

event.

4-5 May Keesler AFB and Biloxi conducted an Open House and Air Show, Thunder Over

The Sound, at the KAFB flight line and the White House Hotel Front Lawn.

However, the 81 TRW/CC, Colonel Debra Lovette, cancelled the Saturday 4 May

segment due to inclement weather. Nevertheless, approximately 90,000 spectators

attended the event. The Honorable Andrew “FoFo” Gilich, Mayor of Biloxi, and

Colonel Lovette made opening remarks both on base and on the beach. The Air

Force Thunderbirds presented aerial demonstrations and fly-overs. Moreover, the

event included static displays of weapons systems, support aircraft, and WWII

vintage aircraft along with ground demonstrations.

10 May Special Olympics Mississippi Summer (SOMS) took place at KAFB. The athletes

participated in unified relays for the first time. The program paired SOMS

competitors with able-bodied athletes from nearby high schools in a 4X400 relay.

16 May Colonel Debra Lovette, 81 TRW/CC, relinquished command to Colonel Heather

Blackwell during a change of command ceremony at the KAFB Parade Field.

20 May The 81st Training Wing earned the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award (AFOUA)

for exceptionally meritorious service from 1 July 2017 through 30 June 2018.

26 Jun The Air Force Personnel (AFPC) Roadshow came to KAFB. The AFPC team

offered Officer, Enlisted, and Civilian Town Halls at the Roberts Maintenance

Facility. They presented updates, discussed assignments, and professional

development.

23 Jul The Institute for Defense Robotic Surgical trained the 100th team on robotic

surgery at the 81 Surgical Operations Squadron on KAFB. This in-house training

provided one million dollars in savings.

16 Aug The 81 Security Forces Squadron (81 SFS) hosted a Ruck Obstacle Course at the

Crotwell Track. It was one of their culminating events during the Year of the

Defender. The teams competed in ammunition carries, pull-ups, tire flips, and

other activities.

29 Aug Major General Andrea Tullos assumed command of Second Air Force (2 AF)

from Major General Timothy Leahy during a change of command ceremony at

KAFB.

11 Sep The Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training Unit (CNATTU) held a 9/11

memorial ceremony in front of the 81 TRW Headquarters on KAFB. The

CNATTU honored the victims of the 9/11 terrorists’ attacks.

4 Oct The Keesler Medical Center (KMC) hosted the eighth annual Health Expo and

Mammothon to bring attention to Breast Cancer Awareness month. Twenty-five

clinics, such as nutritional medicine and the blood donation center, offered

information.

19 Nov The 81 SFS announced they ended the KAFB Trusted Traveler Program as an

additional security measure. Department of Defense (DoD) cardholders could no

longer vouch for non-DoD card holders to enter KAFB. Therefore, everyone

attempting to access KAFB had to present a DOD identification card or a visitor’s

pass.

11-14 Dec Colonel Heather Blackwell, 81 TRW/CC, convened an “Improv to Improve” class

at the Bay Breeze Event Center on KAFB. B.J. Lang, Air Force Wounded

Warrior Program Comedy Coach, taught the course. The class provided an

improvisation, comedy, and resiliency experience for Service-Members. Improve

to Improve gave the participants a safe and interactive learning environment to

cope with stress. The course also taught the Service-Members to build resilience

in an unconventional manner.

2020__________________________________________________________________________

17 Jan Colonel Marcia Quigley, 81st Mission Support Group Commander (81 MSG/CC),

assumed command of the new 81st Civil Engineer Squadron (81 CES).

23 Jan The 81st Medical Group (81 MDG) members and guests celebrated Mardi Gras

and crowned the Krewe of Medics “Royalty” at the Bay Breeze Event Center

Ballroom (BBEC). The 81 MDG members chose the “Royalty” by purchasing

tickets. The participants took part in the “Gamer’s Paradise” theme by dressing as

their favorite classic arcade game character.

18 Feb The 81 CES reactivated during a ceremony at the Keesler Fire Department

Apparatus High Bay in building 4225.

21 Feb Colonel Heather Blackwell, 81st Training Wing Commander (81 TRW/CC), and

Chief Master Sergeant (CMSgt) David Pizzuto, 81 TRW Command Chief

(81 TRW/CCC), presented mementos at the 2020 CMSgt Recognition Ceremony.

CMSgt Tamar Dennis, Air University Command Chief (AU/CCC), acted as the

guest speaker. The event took place at the BBEC Ballroom.

15 Mar Colonel Blackwell, 81 TRW/CC, issued a Special Commander’s Alert regarding

access to the Keesler Medical Center (KMC) in response to the spread of the

COVID-19 virus. The order directed KMC staff and patients to enter the KMC

only through the main entrance or the Emergency Room effective 16 March 2020.

Furthermore, no individuals under the age of 18 and no individuals with a cough,

fever, or cold could visit inpatients effective 16 March 2020. Moreover, only

patients with appointments could visit the outpatient clinics at the KMC effective

16 March 2020.

16 Mar The 81 TRW/CC, Colonel Blackwell, announced she cancelled some large events

scheduled for March and April 2020 due to COVID-19. Moreover, she said that

she would update the Health Protection Condition (HPCON) to correspond to the

COVID-19 situation.

16 Mar Colonel Marcia Quigley, 81 MSG/CC, informed the Keesler Air Force Base

(KAFB) community about facility closures along with reduces hours of services.

The closings included the BBEC Club, all fitness centers, the bowling center, and

Outdoor recreation.

17 Mar The 81 TRW/CC, Colonel Heather Blackwell, announced KAFB entered

HPCON-B. The HPCON-B measure indicated moderate disease threat level for

the KAFB community.

21 Mar The 81 TRW/CC, Colonel Heather Blackwell, directed KAFB to enter HPCON-

C. The HPCON-C measure indicated a substantial threat level for COVID-19

spreading on KAFB.

27 Mar The 81 TRW/CC, Colonel Heather Blackwell, issued a directive all Active-Duty

military, reservists, and National Guard personnel on Title 10 orders. She ordered

them to limit stops between their duty station and their residence or temporary

duty lodging (TDY). Furthermore, Colonel Blackwell told military personnel not

to go beyond a 40-mile radius of KAFB unless they traveled to their residence.

She encouraged civilian employees and contractors to follow the same guidance.

31 Mar Detachment 5 of the 737th Training Group (DET 5, 737 TRG) activated at

Keesler Air Force Base (KAFB), Mississippi (MS). Lieutenant Colonel (Lt Col)

Jerry T. Hambright took command of the detachment. The unit initiated the

Keesler Basic Military Training (BMT) Proof of Concept.

3 Apr Colonel Heather Blackwell, 81 TRW/CC, released a Public Health Emergency

Order (PHEO) and a KAFB wide curfew. The PHEO restricted Airmen-in-

Training to KAFB. Furthermore, the PHEO provided isolation and quarantine

instructions for military members and civilians who had been in contact with

someone who had COVID-19. Moreover, the 81 TRW/CC established KAFB

curfew covering 2300 through 0500 daily. Colonel Blackwell also announced

personnel in quarantine and isolation could receive government furnished meals

free of charge.

6 Apr Colonel Heather Blackwell, 81 TRW/CC, emailed COVID-19 mitigation

protocols for KAFB. She directed only Operationally Critical (OpCrit) personnel

with OpCrit badges to report to duty on the installation. Colonel Blackwell

instructed the rest of the personnel to coordinate with their supervisors to establish

telework procedures. Furthermore, Colonel Blackwell instituted a base curfew

covering 2300 hours until 0500 daily. Moreover, she told personnel to wear cloth

covered masks on their faces.

7 Apr Senior Airman (SrA) Jazay Martin emailed a Commander’s Intent notification

that KAFB entered Health Protection Condition-C (HPCON-C) in response to

COVID-19 as of 6 April 2020. Colonel Blackwell ordered KAFB personnel to

clean their duty stations before and after their shifts. Colonel Blackwell also

directed personnel to continue to don cloth face masks when they could not

maintain six feet of distance from other people.

7-8 Apr DET 5 of the 737 TRG received 58 recruits at KAFB. This action started the

Keesler Basic Military Training (BMT) Proof of Concept. The recruits incurred a

14-day Restriction of Movement (ROM) at the start of their training. The KAFB

BMT allowed Lackland Air Force Base, Texas to disperse recruits from that

centralized Air Force BMT location as a COVID-19 mitigation measure. The

KAFB recruits trained for six weeks.

6 May Colonel Heather Blackwell, 81 TRW/CC, launched the Keesler Strong Action

Plan (K-SAP) to initiate the KAFB recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. The

KSAP re-opened Outdoor Recreation, the Bowling Center, and the Golf Course.

Additionally, the KSAP called for the Arts and Crafts Engraving Shop to re-open.

Colonel Blackwell emphasized KAFB members would have to contribute to

COVID-19 mitigation protocols. She said these measures included staying six feet

away from others, wearing cloth masks, and washing hands.

11 May The 81 TRW/CC, Colonel Heather Blackwell, rescinded the restriction for

Permanent Party Airmen to reside off KAFB. She also ended the KAFB 2200

through 0500 curfew. Moreover, Colonel Blackwell approved non-prior service

technical school Airmen to return to the Triangle Gym. Additionally, she

permitted the BBEC and the Bowling Alley to serve carry out meals.

1 Jun The 81 TRW/CC, Colonel Heather Blackwell, addressed the racial tensions the

nation faced after the death of George Floyd. She called for the KAFB to resolve

these problems through dialogue, diversity, and inclusion.

3 Jun Colonel Heather Blackwell, 81 TRW/CC, issued PHEO Three. Colonel Blackwell

returned KAFB to HPCON-B. The measure indicated a moderate threat of the

spread of COVID-19 in the KAFB community. Colonel Blackwell directed

KAFB members to limit gatherings to a maximum of 50 people. Additionally,

Colonel Blackwell ended the 40-mile radius movement and the home-to-work

restrictions. Furthermore, she authorized TDY personnel to stay off-base. Colonel

Blackwell also approved pre-COVID-19 access to the Commissary, BX, and the

Shoppette starting 5 June for Active-Duty members and Retirees.

26 Jun The 81 TRW/CC, Colonel Heather Blackwell, disseminated PHEO number four

(PHEO 4) to the KAFB community. The 81 TRW/CC ordered the installation to

enter HPCON-C. She restricted gatherings to a maximum of 10 people. Colonel

Blackwell also reinstated the home-to-work order under specific parameters.

Additionally, the 81 TRW/CC, updated the local leave area to the state of

Mississippi.

1 Jul Colonel Heather Blackwell, 81 TRW/CC, established a series of panels entitled

“Courageous Conversations.” She said the group discussions would develop racial

consciousness and assist with revealing bias.

4 Aug Colonel Heather Blackwell, 81 TRW/CC, revealed her vision to enhance the

KAFB community to be an inclusive and diverse environment in response to

national racial tensions.

3 Sep The 81 TRW/CC, Colonel Heather Blackwell, issued PHEO number five (PHEO

5) in which she ordered KAFB to enter HPCON-B in response to lower positive

COVID-19 cases. She restricted KAFB gatherings to a maximum of 25 people.

Moreover, Colonel Blackwell directed KAFB members to maintain a distance of

six feet from others. Furthermore, she ordered members to wear cloth face masks.

3 Sep Colonel Heather Blackwell, 81 TRW/CC, warned the KAFB community that the

highest COVID-19 contract locations included restaurants and off base gyms. She

also directed people to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and the flu. Colonel

Blackwell said to stay home and to undergo a test for COVID-19 or the flu for if

they feel ill.

8 Sep Colonel Heather Blackwell, 81 TRW/CC, released revised PHEO 5. The updated

PHEO 5 included a COVID-19 civilian employee travel guide to accompany the

military flowchart.

11 Sep The Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training Unit-Keesler (CNATTU-

Keesler) hosted a September 11th remembrance ceremony. The event honored

nearly 3,000 lives lost in the 11 September 2001 attacks. The CNATTU held the

ceremony at the Base Flag Pole in front of the 81 TRW Headquarters.

18 Sep Lieutenant General James Hecker, Air University Commander (AU/CC), served

as the reviewing official at a KAFB Basic Military Training (BMT) Graduation.

CMSgt Tamar Dennis, AU/CCC, acted as the guest speaker during the event at

the Levitow Training Support Facility Parade Field.

9 Nov The 81 TRW/CC, Colonel Heather Blackwell, issued PHEO six (PHEO 6). She

instituted a confidentiality policy for medical tracing to improve contract tracing

data. Additionally, Colonel Blackwell delegated Stop Movement Waiver

Authority for PCS and TDY to the first 0-6 (Colonel level) in the chain of

command. She also directed unit commanders must approve leave outside of the

state of Mississippi. Moreover, the 81 TRW/CC delegated travel assessments and

leave within Mississippi to supervisors or unit commanders.

17 Nov Colonel Heather Blackwell, 81 TRW/CC, announced Hurricane Zeta damaged

approximately 180 trees on KAFB. Furthermore, she said the storm damaged

almost 240 items such as roofs, fences, and signs. The 81 TRW/CC added that the

contracting process for large tree removal and roof repair would be a long-term

process. However, Colonel Blackwell assured everyone the KAFB team would

work diligently to restore the installation to accomplish the mission.

23 Nov The 81 TRW/CC, Colonel Heather Blackwell, alerted the KAFB community to a

35 percent increase of positive COVID-19 cases on the installation. However, she

said that most of the infected members had followed Center for Disease Control

(CDC) guidelines at their duty stations. Therefore, Colonel Blackwell noted the

quarantine inflicted only minimal impact on mission. Additionally, Colonel

Blackwell reminded the KAFB community to maintain COVID-19 protocols

during the holiday season.

7 Dec Colonel Heather Blackwell, 81 TRW/CC, announced she would re-establish some

COVID-19 measures in HPCON B in response to a 14-day rise of positive

COVID-19 cases. She said the amount of positive cases had increase on and off

KAFB. The 81 TRW/CC prohibited dining at restaurants indoors or outdoors at

off base facilities. However, she authorized take-out orders from restaurants.

Colonel Blackwell also ordered the 81 FSS facilities to implement more spacing

for indoor dining.

14 Dec The 81 TRW/CC, Colonel Heather Blackwell, heralded the COVID-19 vaccine by

encouraging everyone to volunteer to receive this immunization once it is

available at KAFB. She added that the vaccination would not be mandatory, but

she emphasized the immunizations would protect the KAFB community. Colonel

Blackwell reminded everyone to avoid gatherings and to maintain COVID-19

protocols during the holiday season.

16 Dec The 81st Training Wing (81 TRW) received the Air Force Outstanding Unit

Award for exceptionally meritorious service from 1 July 2018 through 30 June

2020.

2021__________________________________________________________________________

5 Jan Colonel Heather Blackwell, 81st Training Wing Commander (81 TRW/CC),

announced she would maintain the same priorities for 2021. Colonel Blackwell

listed diversity, inclusion, empowerment, and resilience for her culture concern.

Moreover, the 81 TRW/CC said the unit would transform learning and leading

missions. Furthermore, Colonel Blackwell emphasized safety and security in

housing, dorms, and facilities. Colonel Blackwell also prioritized community

partnerships.

7 Jan The 81 TRW/CC, Colonel Heather Blackwell, sent an email in response to the 6

January riot at the United States Capitol Building. Colonel Blackwell encouraged

leaders to engage their people to determine if they needed to discuss this incident.

11 Jan The 81st Training Wing Commander (81 TRW/CC), Colonel Heather Blackwell,

released her Keesler Air Force Base (KAFB) Diversity and Inclusion Plan.

Colonel Blackwell encouraged community members to contribute ideas and

feedback to this mission.

11 Jan Colonel Heather Blackwell, (81 TRW/CC), directed KAFB members to limit

social gatherings to no more than 10 people due to an increase of positive

COVID-19 cases. Colonel Blackwell instituted this strategy because the cases

rose on and off base. However, she announced KAFB would be receiving regular

deliveries of the COVID-19 vaccine to help protect KAFB members. Moreover,

Colonel Blackwell instructed Squadron Commanders to consider positive

COVID-19 cases before they approved leave.

15 Jan Colonel Heather Blackwell, 81st Training Wing Commander (81 TRW/CC),

hosted a Keesler Club Day at the Keesler Air Force Base (KAFB) Bay Breeze

Event Center (BBEC). KAFB members had the opportunity to select from 30

activities such as self-defense, photography, and cooking.

19 Jan The 81 TRW/CC, Colonel Heather Blackwell, instituted COVID-19 surveillance

testing on KAFB in her Public Health Emergency Order Eight (PHEO 8). Colonel

Blackwell also restricted official and unofficial activities to a maximum of 10

people per event to decrease the transmission of COVID-19.

1 Feb Colonel Heather Blackwell, 81 TRW/CC, explained her KAFB COVID-19

surveillance testing program randomly examined various asymptomatic Active-

Duty members. Furthermore, Colonel Blackwell emphasized this action would

contribute to reducing the spread of COVID-19.

7 Feb The 81 TRW/CC, Colonel Heather Blackwell, announced the 81 TRW pleased

her by passing the Unit Effectiveness Inspection (UEI) that occurred the prior

week.

8 Feb The 81 TRW/CC, Colonel Heather Blackwell, said positive COVID-19 cases

were decreasing on and off base. However, Colonel Blackwell revealed the 81st

Medical Group placed some asymptomatic KAFB members in quarantine via her

COVID-19 random surveillance testing program.

8 Feb Mr. Aundra Moore, 81 TRW Human Resources Officer, encouraged the KAFB

community to recognize National African American History Month. Mr. Moore

directed everyone to join the virtual events on Facebook and ZoomGov due to

COVID-19 protocols.

10 Feb First Lieutenant Linda Davila, 81 FSS, announced the Air Force approved new

female hair standards. One of the changes provided Females the option to wear

their hair in a ponytail instead of just pinned-up while in uniform.

11 Feb The 81 MSG first responders received a suspicious package report from the

Keesler Medical Center (KMC). The first responders secured the scene and

evacuated the location near the parcel. However, they determined the package did

not contain hazardous material.

18 Feb Colonel Heather Blackwell, 81 TRW/CC, authorized a maximum of 25 members

to gather for official and unofficial activities. However, Colonel Blackwell

directed members to wear face masks to prevent the transmission of COVID in

PHEO 9.

1 Mar The 81 TRW/CC, Colonel Heather Blackwell, attributed a rise in positive

COVID-19 cases to escalated surveillance testing of asymptomatic KAFB

members. Therefore, Colonel Blackwell emphasized to personnel to maintain

physical distance, wear masks, and to wash their hands.

1 Mar Mr. Aundra Moore, 81 TRW Human Resources Officer, encouraged the KAFB

community to recognize Women’s History Month. Mr. Moore directed everyone

to join the virtual events on Facebook and ZoomGov due to COVID-19 protocols

10 Mar The Mississippi Veterans Affairs Military Women’s Summit took place at the

BBEC. The participants discussed subjects such as leadership and work/life

balance.

24 Mar Ms. Kimberly Toney, Air Force Personnel Center Executive Director, conducted

a mentoring session with Civilian Airmen at the Sablich Center.

30 Mar Major Patrick King, 81 TRW Executive Officer, emailed the KAFB community

that April would be Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month (SAAPM).

Major King provided a schedule of the SAAPM activities such as self-defense

classes and athletic events.

1 Apr The KAFB Blake and Dragon Fitness Centers re-opened to Family Members of

Active-Duty personnel. However, everyone still had to follow COVID-19

prevention protocols such as social distancing and wearing masks.

3 – 10 Apr KAFB observed Holocaust Days of Remembrance. The observance project

officer, Master Sergeant (MSgt) April Winchel, 81 TRW Law Office

Superintendent, emailed education material about this tragic period to the KAFB

community.

5 Apr Colonel Heather Blackwell, 81 TRW/CC, informed KAFB members the positive

COVID-19 cases decreased as the number of vaccinated personnel rose.

Nevertheless, Colonel Blackwell directed members to continue to follow COVID-

19 mitigation procedures to maintain this progress.

30 Apr The 81 TRW/CC, Colonel Heather Blackwell, ordered KAFB units to participate

in the base wide clean-up day. Colonel Blackwell instructed facility managers to

acquire equipment and supplies for this mission from the Self-Help store.

6 May Lieutenant General Marshall B. Webb, Air Education and Training Command

Commander (AETC/CC), presented the first ever iChallenge first place Torch

Award during the Gathering of the Torch iExpo. Mr. Matthew Correia, Profession

of Arms Center of Excellence instructional systems specialist, received this honor

from General Webb at the BBEC.

17 May Colonel Heather Blackwell, 81 TRW/CC, heralded the availability of the COVID-

19 vaccinations to all beneficiaries at the Keesler Medical Center (KMC).

17 May The Honorable Anh “Joseph” Cao, former U.S. Representative, gave the keynote

address at the Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month Observance at the

BBEC.

20 May Twelve KAFB Senior Leaders represented the installation at the 31st State of the

City of Biloxi Address Luncheon at the Beau Rivage Resort and Casino. The

Biloxi Bay Area Chamber of Commerce hosted the event. Colonel Brian Stumpe,

2 AF/CV, and Colonel James Kafer, 81 TRW/CV, attended. Additionally,

Colonel Stuart Rubio, 403rd Wing Commander (403 WG/CC), along with nine

other KAFB leaders took part in this gathering.

1 Jun The 81 TRW hosted a Congressional Staff Visit from the Office of U.S.

Representative Steven Palazzo. Mr. Aaron Hall, Legislative Assistant, and Ms.

Michele Garigiulo, District Director, toured KAFB. They talked to KAFB

leadership and attended mission briefs.

17 Jun Colonel William Hunter assumed command of the 81 TRW from Colonel Heather

Blackwell at the Levitow Training Support Facility. Major General Andrea

Tullos, 2nd Air Force Commander (2 AF/CC), presided over this ceremony.

18 Jun The KAFB community observed the new Juneteenth National Independence Day

holiday because 19 June, the actual date of the event, came on Saturday.

22 Jun The KAFB community hosted a Juneteenth celebration at the BBEC. The

attendees learned about this annual observance of the emancipation of the last

American slaves in the state of Texas.

25 Jun The Keesler LGBTQ+ Month Committee hosted an informational expo event at

the Roberts Maintenance Auditorium for Pride Month.

28 Jun Major Anthony Perez, 81st Force Support Squadron Commander (81 FSS/CC),

announced the KAFB Youth Center would be closed 29 June. Major Perez said

the facility would undergo deep cleaning due to a confirmed positive case of

COVID-19. Nevertheless, the Youth Center re-opened 30 June after the 81 MDG

Public Health Office inspected it.

29 Jun Colonel William Hunter, 81 TRW/CC, led attendees at the City of Biloxi

Inauguration Ceremony in the Pledge of Allegiance at the Biloxi Civic Center.

The Honorable Andrew “FoFo” Gilich, Mayor of the City of Biloxi, and seven

councilmembers participated in this oath of office ceremony.

1 Jul The 81

TRW celebrated its 28th anniversary. Headquarters AETC activated the

81st Training Wing and assigned it to Second Air Force. The 81 TRW assumed

the old Keesler Technical Training Center (KTTC) mission.

10 Jul Colonel William Hunter, 81 TRW/CC, swore-in 10 Air Force Delayed Entry

Program recruits at Biloxi Shuckers baseball game during pre-game activities in

Biloxi. Colonel Hunter also threw the ceremonial first pitch of the game.

12-16 Jul Two members of the 81 TRW Public Affairs Office (81 TRW/PA) represented the

81 TRW at the 16th Annual Federal Government Statewide Conference. Mr. Ted

Rivera and SSgt Holly Cook took part in the All-Majors virtual panel with 173

other participants. The Florida International University’s Career and Talent

Development Office hosted this conference. More than 1,300 students and alumni

logged into this virtual conference. Additionally, representatives from 46 Federal

agencies acted as guest speakers and panelists during this forum.

13 Jul The 81 TRW/CC, Colonel William Hunter, swore-in 10 Delayed Entry Program

recruits prior to a Biloxi Shuckers baseball game at MGM Park. Moreover,

Colonel Hunter threw the ceremonial first pitch of the game between the Shuckers

and the Birmingham Barons.

15 Jul The Keesler Technology Expo provided networking opportunities for the KAFB

community with hi-tech companies at the BBEC. The 81st Communications

Squadron (81 CS) and the Armed Forces Communications and Electronics

Association (AFCEA) hosted this activity.

26 Jul Mr. Gerald Cross, 81 FSS, announced the Biloxi School District would waive out-

of-district tuition fees for Service-Members who provided them a housing non-

availability letter. However, the Service-Members would need to provide the

transportation for their children to attend Biloxi Schools.

29 Jul The 81 TRW Public Affairs Office (81 TRW/PA) emailed KAFB members they

must wear masks at indoor facilities on the installation. The 81 TRW/PA cited

guidance from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Secretary of

Defense (SecDef) as the reason for this action.

30 Jul Major General Michele Edmondson assumed command of Second Air Force (2nd

AF) from Major General Andrea Tullos during a change of command ceremony at

the BBEC. Lieutenant General Marshall Webb, Air Education and Training

Command Commander (AETC/CC), presided over this event. The Honorable

Andrew “FoFo” Gilich, Mayor of Biloxi, attended the ceremony along with

several other distinguished visitors.

1 Aug The 81 SFS demonstrated Military Working Dog techniques before the Biloxi

Shuckers baseball game at MGM Park. Five dog handlers and three dogs provided

demonstrations to the audience during this Bark in the Park event. One of the

handlers, SSgt Cody Garton, 81 SFS, threw the ceremonial first pitch of the game.

5 Aug Colonel William Hunter, 81 TRW/CC, implemented Health Protection Condition

Bravo (HPCON B) on KAFB. Colonel Hunter directed KAFB members to be

vaccinated against COVID-19 to use the fitness centers. Moreover, he restricted

large indoor gathers to a maximum of 50 percent capacity. Furthermore, the 81

TRW/CC, mandated members to wear face masks indoors.

5 Aug The KAFB mourned the loss of 31-year-old Senior Airman (SrA) Taylor Labrier

in a vehicle accident on nearby Interstate-110 in D’Iberville, Mississippi. SrA

Labrier had been serving on a temporary duty assignment with the 81 TRW in an

Air Force school. Furthermore, SrA Labrier was a member of the Illinois Air

National Guard in the 183rd Wing’s Communications Squadron.

9 Aug Mr. Louis Bridges, 81 FSS Education Service Specialist, earned one of the 2021

Veteran Champions of the Year for Higher Education awards. Mr. Bridges was

the only winner out of 19 people to serve on a military installation. Embry-Riddle

Aeronautical University nominated Mr. Bridges for this award.

10 Aug The 81 TRW/CC, Colonel William Hunter, notified KAFB Active-Duty members

to prepare for the possibility of mandatory COVID-19 vaccinations. Colonel

Hunter said the SecDef had asked the approval of the President to implement this

measure within 30 days. Additionally, Colonel Hunter assured personnel the 81

MDG would be ready to execute mandatory vaccinations.

12 Aug Colonel William Hunter, 81 TRW/CC, reiterated to KAFB members they must be

fully vaccinated to use the Fitness Centers in PHEO 12. Colonel Hunter also

repeated his restriction of a maximum of 50 percent room capacity for gatherings

along with his indoor mask mandate.

13 Aug The 81 TRW held a Celebration of Life ceremony for the late Airman Daniel

Germenis at the Roberts Consolidated Aircraft Maintenance (CAM) Facility.

Airman Germenis served as an Airman-in-Training in the 336th Training

Squadron (336 TRS). He succumbed to injuries he suffered in an on-base

automobile collision with pedestrians on 28 July. Three other Airmen sustained

injures in this incident. Airman Germenis had earned the title of Cyber Systems

Operator. The 336 TRS offered a livestream at the KAFB Welch Theater of his 6

August funeral in the Calvary Baptist Church in Bastrop, Texas.

18 Aug The Honorable Andrew “FoFo” Gilich, Mayor of the City of Biloxi, hosted 81

TRW Senior Leaders at his office in City Hall. Colonel William Hunter, 81

TRW/CC, and CMSgt Sarah Esparza, 81 TRW/CCC, met with the mayor and

some City of Biloxi staff members. Additionally, Mr. Brian Thompson, 81

TRW/DS, attended this meeting. The 81 TRW leaders informed the mayor that no

Afghan travelers would be coming to KAFB. Furthermore, the group discussed

the challenges Service-Members encountered finding housing in Biloxi.

20 Aug Major Anthony Perez, 81 FSS/CC, announced fully COVID-19 vaccinated

members could use the Blake Fitness Center 24 hours a day and seven days a

week. However, Major Perez instructed members to complete a Statement of

Understanding regarding the rules for the facility during unmanned hours.

22 Aug The Keesler Medical Center (KMC) organized a 22-person team to deploy to

Baton Rouge, Louisiana to provide Defense Support to Civil Authorities for

COVID-19. The team included three physicians, four Intensive Care Unit nurses,

four Emergency Department nurses, six clinical nurses, two respiratory

technicians, and three support personnel.

25 Aug The KAFB community recognized the 80th anniversary of the installation. The

War Department redesignated Army Air Corps Station Number 8 to be Keesler

Army Airfield on 25 August 1941. The War Department named the base in honor

of Second Lieutenant Samuel Reeves Keesler, Jr of Greenwood, Mississippi.

Lieutenant Keesler posthumously received the World War I Victory Medal with a

Silver Star for gallantry he displayed until his death. He died on 9 October 1919

in the Verdun sector of the Western Front in France from injuries he sustained the

previous day in combat.

25 Aug Key leaders from the 81 TRW met with the Honorable Billy Hewes, Mayor of the

City of Gulfport, in City Hall. The 81 TRW/CC, Colonel William Hunter, the 81

TRW/CCC, CMSgt Sarah Esparza, and the 81 TRW/DS, Mr. Brian Thompson

met with the mayor. They discussed ways to enhance community relationships

between KAFB and Gulfport.

26 Aug The 81 TRW hosted a Women’s Equality Observation Day at the Bay Breeze

Event Center (BBEC) Ballroom. A panel of female senior Enlisted, Officer, and

Civilian leaders discussed the challenges and rewards women incurred to become

successful in the Air Force. Colonel William, 81 TRW/CC, gave the closing

remarks for this occasion.

27 Aug The 81 TRW/CC, Colonel William Hunter, emailed all KAFB leaders to shelter-

in-place at 11:20 a.m. under Hurricane Condition 3 (HURCON 3) for Tropical

Storm Ida. Colonel Hunter told leaders to prioritize safety for all personnel by

avoiding risk to members, facilities, and resources. Additionally, Colonel Hunter

said personnel should wait until the inclement weather to move beyond KAFB

before departing their shelter that day. Moreover, the 81 TRW/CC instructed

members to COVID-19 mitigations during this period.

27 Aug The Keesler Medical Center (KMC) assembled a nine-person team to deploy to

Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico. The team of six physicians, one Critical

Care Nurse, and two Enlisted members provided medical support to Afghan

Travelers.

31 Aug The 81st Training Wing Command Post (81 TRW/CP) emailed an “All Clear”

notification to KAFB members at 10:57 a.m. Thus, all declared hurricane

conditions ended for KAFB.

1 Sep The 81 TRW/CC, Colonel William Hunter, and 81 TRW/CCC, CMSgt Sarah

Esparza, toured the 85th Engineering Squadron (85 EIS). Both Senior Leaders

took part in a tower climbing demonstration during their 85 EIS immersion

behind Maltby Hall.

10 Sep The Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training Unit (CNATTU) Keesler held

a 9/11 Memorial Ceremony at the 81 TRW Headquarters flag pole. The event

honored the approximately 3,000 lives America lost on 11 September 2001 in

terrorist attacks. Major General Michele Edmonson, 2 AF/CC, Colonel William

Hunter, 81 TRW/CC, attended the ceremony along with other senior leaders.

10 Sep Keesler Air Force Base hosted the second annual 9/11 Memorial Run. This 24-

hour event paid tribute to the victims of the 11 September 2001 terrorist attacks.

12 Sep Colonel Donnette Boyd, AETC Command Chaplain, gave a speech at the 50th

anniversary of the Keesler Gospel Worship Service. “Growing Stronger, Growing

Deeper, Reaching Higher,” was the theme of the event.

13 Sep Major General Michele Edmondson, 2 AF/CC, received a KAFB Immersion Tour

led by the 81 TRW/CC, Colonel William Hunter. Major General Edmondson

stopped by the 81 TRG and the 81 MDG. Additionally, the 2 AF Command Chief

(2 AF/CC), CMSgt Adam Vizi, provided Major General Edmondson with a

virtual-reality system demonstration at the 334 TRS. Furthermore, Major General

Edmondson conducted an open discussion forum with Military Training Leaders

(MTL) in the Levitow Training Support Facility.

18 Sep Major General Jim Martin, U.S. Air Force retired, served as the guest speaker at

the 81 TRW Air Force Ball. The 81 TRW celebrated the 74th birthday of the Air

Force at the Golden Nugget Hotel and Casino Grand Ballroom in Biloxi. Colonel

William Hunter, 81 TRW/CC, and his spouse, Mrs. Blanca Hunter came along

with other senior leaders. The Honorable Scott Delano, Mississippi State Senator,

and other distinguished visitors also attended this celebration.

19 – 25 Sep The KAFB community honored Fallen Service-Members for their service and

sacrifice during Gold Star Families Remembrance Week. The activities included a

Meadow of Memories Walking Trail and a Fallen Heroes Butterfly Garden

dedication and butterfly release.

25 Sep 150 Non-Prior Service Airmen in training (NPS AiT) attended an 81 TRG ball for

these students. These NPS AiT operated the ball. Military Training Leaders

(MTLs) offered mentorship to the students during this activity.

27 Sep The 81 TRW/PA informed the KAFB to honor “Constitution Day and Citizenship

Day” on the KAFB Facebook page. The day commemorated the signing of the

U.S. Constitution 234 years ago.

30 Sep Members of the KAFB community participated in a Prisoner of War/Missing in

Action (POW/MIA) Run and Vigil which began at the Levitow Drill Pad.

Lieutenant Colonel (Lt Col) Jill Heliker, 81 TRG Deputy Commander (81

TRG/CD), provided opening remarks.

1 Oct The 81 TRW leadership participated in a meet and greet with U.S. Representative

Steven Palazzo’s staff in his Gulfport office. Colonel William Hunter, 81

TRW/CC, CMSgt Sarah Esparza, 81 TRW/CCC, and Mr. Brian Thompson, 81

TRW Director of Staff, attended this meeting. The 81 TRW leaders discussed

projects such as improving base housing and adding new permanent party

dormitories.

1 Oct The 81st Training Support Squadron (81 TRSS) partnered with the KAFB Marine

Detachment’s Marine Corps Lance Corporal Leadership and Ethics Seminar. Two

Airmen from the 81 TRSS completed the 11-day Professional Military Education

(PME) course.

1 Oct The 81 MDG offered KAFB members an opportunity to make appointments for

several types of cancer at the 10th Annual Health Expo in the BBEC. The 81

MDG held this event to recognize Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Furthermore, attendees could schedule examinations for chronic diseases. The

participants visited information booths to receive health care education. The 81st

Dental Squadron (81 DS) even provided dental examinations to some of the

attendees.

1 Oct The 81 FSS presented a Rock Festival at the KAFB Heritage Park. The bands

included Brett Scallions of Fuel, 3oh!3, and Sick Puppies.

2 Oct The KAFB community continued its tradition of holding a “Cruisin’ Keesler” car

show and parade a day before the local “Cruising the Coast” event began. The

“Cruisin’ Keesler” show started at the KAFB Marina Park.

5 Oct Colonel Stuart Rubio, 403rd Wing Commander (403 WG/CC), participated on a

Hispanic Leaders Panel at BBEC to recognize National Hispanic-American

Heritage Month.

5 Oct The KAFB community participated in the 81 SFS National Night Out at the Bay

Ridge Community Center. The event offered 81 SFS Defenders and residents the

opportunity to enhance their relationships.

13 Oct Colonel William Hunter, 81 TRW/CC, acted as the guest speaker at POW/MIA

Retreat Ceremony at the 81 TRW/HQ flag pole. Colonel James Kafer, 81

TRW/CV, and other senior leaders also attended this tribute.

14-15 Oct The 336th Training Squadron (336 TRS) hosted the Department of the Air Force

(DAF) Artificial Intelligence (AI) Accelerator Team. Additionally, faculty from

the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) came with the Accelerator Team

to learn about the Air Force Computer Programming Initial Skills Training

Course.

15 Oct Major General Michele Edmondson, 2 AF/CC, revealed the 334th Training

Squadron (334 TRS) received a 50-thousand-dollar award from AETC’s 2021

challenge. The 334 TRS would procure cloud services for establishment and

preliminary execution of an Air Traffic Control (ATC) Pocket. Furthermore, the

334 TRS coordinated with the Air Force Material Command (AFMC) and the Air

Force Installation Contracting Center on this mission.

15-22 Oct Two technicians from the 81st Training Support Squadron (81 TRSS) deployed to

Qatar to install Early Warning Radar (EWR) Simulator computer software for the

Qatari military. The 81 TRSS established the source code for this product.

Moreover, the 81 TRSS provided Qatar, a coalition partner, with a custom version

of the software after the Foreign Disclosure Office approved this mission.

19 Oct The 81 TRW/PA informed the KAFB community the installation entered HPCON

Alpha Plus (HPCON A+). Therefore, fully vaccinated personnel could access

Fitness Centers without proof of their immunizations. Furthermore, all Force

Support Squadron facilities returned to 100 percent capacity. Nevertheless,

members still had to wear face masks in all indoor facilities.

20 Oct Forty business and community leaders from the Mississippi Gulf Coast Chamber

of Commerce’s Leadership Gulf Coast 2021 – 2022 class visited KAFB for

Military Day. Colonel William Hunter, 81 TRW/CC, presented an overview of

the KAFB initiatives during the attendees’ lunch at the BBEC. Furthermore, the

class toured the Air Traffic Control and Airfield Management Schoolhouses.

26 Oct The 22-person KMC team that deployed to Baton Rouge on 22 August to provide

Defense Support to Civil Authorities for COVID-19 returned to KAFB. The team

included three physicians, four Intensive Care Unit nurses, four Emergency

Department nurses, six clinical nurses, two respiratory technicians, and three

support personnel.

29 Oct The 81st Force Support Squadron (81 FSS) provided a Ghouls in the Park

Halloween event at KAFB Marina Park. Children and their families enjoyed

collecting candy, a haunted house, a boo bus, and several games.

29 Oct The 81 TRW/CC, Colonel William Hunter, thanked the KAFB community for

participating in Base Clean-up Day. Colonel Hunter said that these efforts

demonstrated KAFB was an amazing place to live and work.

2 Nov The 81 TRW posted a Mission Brief on the Web at https://youtu.be/HFJ-

np91JKw. The video showed viewers how all the KAFB units executed their

missions.

3 Nov The Director of Weather, Brigadier General Brian McDaniel oversaw a ribbon

cutting ceremony as the 81 TRW commenced the first Space Weather Support

Course. The first in-residence portion of the two-part hybrid class started that day.

The students initiated the course with three weeks of distance learning, and then

they would complete a three-week in-residence class.

5 Nov The 81 TRW/PA announced KAFB transitioned to HPCON A, per a 4 November

memorandum from the 81 TRW/CC, Colonel William Hunter. Therefore, fully

vaccinated members no longer had to wear masks. However, the KMC, Child

Development Center, Youth Center, quarantine, and isolation areas maintained

the face masks mandate. Nevertheless, members still had to wear masks in all

indoor facilities if they were not fully vaccinated.

6 Nov One hundred and eighty-five members of the 81 TRG led by their Commander,

Colonel Chance Geray, marched in the Gulf Coast Veterans Parade in Downtown

Biloxi. Major General Michele Edmondson, 2 AF/CC, and CMSgt Sarah Esparza,

81 TRW/CCC, rode in Corvette convertibles during this event.

7 Nov The 81st Civil Engineer Squadron (CES) started a renovation project on Larcher

Chapel. The 81 CES planned to transform a two-pipe mechanical system to a

four-pipe operation. Furthermore, renovation included a fire suppression system

with alarms and a mass notification system. Moreover, the 81 CES intended to

add a new exterior patio and a game room.

8 Nov Major General Michele Edmondson, 2 AF/CC, visited the 81 TRW for an

immersion tour around Keesler Air Force Base (KAFB). Major General

Edmondson stopped by some student dormitories, Bryan Hall, and Vandenberg

Hall along other KAFB facilities. Additionally, the 2 AF/CC spoke to some 81

TRG Airmen in the Levitow Training Support Facility.

10 Nov Colonel William Hunter, 81 TRW/CC, explained the 81 TRW mission, vision,

and priorities to the KAFB community. Colonel Hunter said the 81 TRW mission

would be to train, develop, and deliver focused driven warriors. Furthermore, the

81 TRW/CC revealed the 81 TRW vision would be to develop a culture of

excellence. Moreover, the Colonel Hunter said the 81 TRW prioritized people, the

installation, the community, and the mission.

12 Nov The 81 TRW/PA announced beneficiaries ages five and older could receive Pfizer

COVID-19 vaccinations at 3D in the KMC through the end of November. These

beneficiaries would start receiving the COVID-19 vaccinations at the

Immunizations Clinic beginning 1 December.

19 Nov Ms. Deatrice Jimerson, Civilian Personnel Officer (CPO), announced civilian

employees who did not comply with the COVID-19 vaccination mandate would

face disciplinary measures. Ms. Jimerson said these actions would include oral

admonishments, suspensions without pay, and removal.

24 Nov The KMC deployed a 22-person team to Saint Cloud, Minnesota to offer Defense

Support to Civil Authorities with COVID-19. The team included three physicians,

four Intensive Care Unit nurses, four Emergency Department nurses, two

respiratory technicians, and three support personnel.

25 Nov Keesler Air Force Base Commanders, Chiefs, First Sergeants, and their spouses

served the Thanksgiving meal to Airmen at the Azalea Dining Facility.

29 Nov The 81 TRW/PA informed KAFB members they must wear face masks in the

commissary regardless of their COVID-19 vaccination status. They also repeated

that members must still wear masks in the KMC, the Child Development Center,

and in the Youth Center.

29 Nov The Air Force Manpower, Personnel and Services Office (AF/A1) restricted

Airmen who were not fully vaccinated against COVID-19 from permanent change

of station (PCS) moves. The Airmen could not PCS until they completed their

vaccinations or until they received a medical or religious exemption for a

COVID-19 vaccination.

30 Nov Colonel William Hunter, 81 TRW/CC, provided welcoming remarks at the KAFB

National Native American Heritage Month Panel Discussion in the BBEC. The

event honored Native American traditions and ancestry.

1-7 Dec The 81 TRW coordinated with the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) to

simulate combat simulations for the Cyber Officer Training pipeline. The students

created and executed thorough solutions for complicated tactical challenges with

Joint All-Domain principles.

2 Dec The KAFB senior leadership and community took part in pre-game activities at a

professional hockey game in Biloxi. Colonel William Hunter, 81 TRW/CC,

conducted an oath of office ceremony with 16 Air Force delayed entry program

recruits before the game. Furthermore, the 2 AF/CC, Major General Michele

Edmonds, initiated the ceremonial puck drop during this event. The KAFB Honor

Guard also performed during the pre-game festivities.

3 Dec Key leaders from KAFB went to the Biloxi Chamber of Commerce’s Breakfast

with the Mayor event in the Edgewater Mall Food Court in Biloxi. Major General

Michele Edmondson, 2 AF/CC, Colonel William Hunter 81 TRW/CC, and

Colonel Stuart Rubio, 403 WG/CC, along with other KAFB key leaders

participated. The Biloxi Chamber of Commerce gave a small welcome gift to

Major General Edmonson, Colonel Hunter, and Colonel Rubio.

3 Dec Keesler Air Force Base (KAFB) hosted Winter Fest at the Marina Park. The event

included a holiday tree lighting ceremony. Additionally, Santa Claus came to

listen to children ask him for gifts.

4 Dec Keesler Air Force Base leadership judged over 25 decorated boats during the 36th

annual Christmas on the Water Boat Parade in Biloxi. Colonel William Hunter, 81

TRW/CC, his spouse Blanca reviewed the contestants. Additionally, Colonel

James Kafer, 81 TRW/CV, and his spouse Rachel, along with other KAFB senior

leaders participated in this event.

9 Dec The FOX News channel came to do a story about the KAFB Space Force Weather

Training Program. Ms. Hunter Davis, FOX Weather Multimedia Journalist,

interviewed the 335 TRS/CC, Lieutenant Colonel Kevin Brockler, about the

Space Weather Support Course. Ms. Davis also spoke with Mr. Arthur Nelson, an

instructor, during her visit at the Weather Training Complex.

10 Dec The 81st Operational Readiness Medicine Squadron (81 ORMS) confirmed the

KAFB water supply was safe to drink because they disinfected it with chlorine.

The 81 ORMS released the Annual Water Quality Report (Consumer Confidence

Report) that also noted KAFB added fluoride to the base water.

13 Dec The nine-person KMC team that deployed to Holloman Air Force Base, New

Mexico on 27 August returned to KAFB. The team of six physicians, one Critical

Care Nurse, and two Enlisted members provided medical support to Afghan

Travelers.

20 Dec Colonel William Hunter, 81 TRW/CC, transitioned KAFB to HPCON B because

the local positive COVID-19 cases increased. Additionally, the 81 TRW/CC

informed the KAFB community this action was part of a team effort to co-exist

with COVID-19. Colonel Hunter issued a face mask mandate for the installation

regardless of the vaccination status of the person. Moreover, the 81 TRW/CC said

personnel accessing the fitness facilities would need to be fully vaccinated and

wear face masks unless they were exercising. Furthermore, Colonel Hunter

restricted indoor capacity to a maximum of 50 percent for the workplace and for

mass gatherings starting 4 January 2022.

21 Dec The Department of the Air Force (DAF) approved the option of including

pronouns such as he/him, she/her, or they/them in official signature blocks.

However, this action did not mandate the use of pronouns in official signature

blocks. The DAF implemented this initiative to address barriers to service and to

promote a more inclusive culture.

22 Dec “Mr. Air Traffic Control,” Mr. Francis Herbert received military honors during a

funeral service at the Biloxi National Veterans Cemetery. He lived to the age of

101. Mr. Herbert served as the last Air Force Air Traffic Control (ATC) Warrant

Officer when he retired in 1972. Furthermore, “Mr. Air Traffic Control” worked

as a civilian ATC instructor at KAFB for 20 more years. The 81 TRW dedicated

the Herbert ATC Lab in Cody Hall in 2016 in his honor. Four members of the 334

TRS represented their unit at the funeral. Major Matthew Francom, 334 TRS

Director of Operations, and M. Robert Brown, 334 TRS ATC Flight Chief,

attended the service. Additionally, Mr. Edward Curley, 334 TRS ATC Instructor

Supervisor, and Mr. Jeffrey Haynes, 334 TRS Airfield Operations Officer

Instructor, went to the funeral.

28 Dec Keesler Air Force Base Commanders, Chiefs, First Sergeants, and their spouses

served the Christmas meal to Airmen at the Magnolia Dining Facility.

29 Dec Lieutenant General Robert I. Miller, Air Force Surgeon General, encouraged

personnel to acquire their COVID-19 vaccinations along with the booster

vaccinations. Lieutenant General Miller emphasized the vaccinations reduced the

stress on the health care system.

2022__________________________________________________________________________

1 Jan-5 Mar The 81st Medical Group deployed a Medical Response Team (MRT) to the

Regional Hospital of Scranton, Pennsylvania. The MRT contributed to lowering

the statewide COVID-19 positive cases from 29,941 to 7,855. The team included

one physician, one physician’s assistant, five registered nurses, seven medical

technicians, and one administrative Airman.

4 Jan The 81st Training Wing Commander (81 TRW/CC), Colonel William Hunter,

restricted indoor capacity to a maximum of 50 percent for the workplace and for

mass gatherings. Colonel Hunter issued this directive in his 30 December 2021

Health Protection Condition Bravo (HPCON B) email.

11 Jan Major General Michele Edmondson, Second Air Force Commander (2nd AF/CC),

went to a Rotary Club of Biloxi Meeting at Mary Mahoney’s Old French House.

Col Brian Stumpe, 2nd AF Vice Commander (2nd AF/CV), accompanied Major

General Edmondson. The Executive Director of the Gulfport-Biloxi International

Airport, Mr. Clay Williams, acted as the guest speaker.

12 Jan Colonel Ryan Crowley, 81st Mission Support Group Commander (81 MSG/CC),

closed two Child Development Center (CDC) pre-toddler classrooms due to some

positive COVID-19 case exposures. Colonel Crowley said the classrooms would

reopen on 20 January 2022.

14 Jan Keesler Air Force Base (KAFB) leadership, along with community members,

played in the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) Closeout Golf Scramble at the

Bay Breeze Golf Course. These golfers, both from on and off base, participated to

boost donations for the CFC.

15 Jan The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) directed Federal Employee Health

Benefits (FEHB) Carriers to provide coverage for over the counter (OTC)

COVID-19 tests to FEHB participants. However, the FEHB plans could restrict

the number of tests to eight per person.

18 Jan Chief Master Sergeant (CMSgt) Kodi Bailey, 333rd Training Squadron Senior

Enlisted Leader (333rd TRS/SEL) announced he would serve as the 81 TRW

Diversity and Inclusion (D & I) Manager. CMSgt Bailey said he would establish a

D & I Council to implement D & I missions. Additionally, CMSgt Bailey asked

81 TRW members to provide D & I feedback, mentorship, special observances,

and other activities.

19 Jan The 81 TRW Public Affairs Office (81 TRW/PA) emailed the KAFB community

about COVID-19 restrictions. Only Active-Duty Service-Members and family

members within the ages of five to eleven could receive COVID-19 vaccinations.

Furthermore, the 81 TRW/PA referred non-Active-Duty adults to off-base

providers for COVID-19 vaccinations. Moreover, the 81 TRW/PA informed the

community the booster shot interval changed to five months instead of six

months. Additionally, the 81 TRW/PA revealed members could order free

COVID-19 tests at www.covidtests.gov.

25 Jan The 81 TRW hosted Biloxi Chamber of Commerce Junior Leadership Program.

The 81 TRW provided a KAFB tour to 17 students from Biloxi High School and

Saint Patrick Catholic High School.

26 Jan The 403rd Wing (403rd WG) announced they would reinstate their

Orientation/Incentive Flight Program to enhance understanding of weapons

systems starting 24 February. Additionally, the 403rd said the program would

incentivize 81 TRW members to display outstanding performance to earn a flight

on an aircraft.

27 Jan Major General (retired) Mark Brown acted as the guest speaker at the Reverend

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Luncheon in the BBEC Ballroom. Colonel William

Hunter, 81 TRW/CC, provided the opening remarks.

1 Feb The 81 TRW Total Force Development Council announced they would hold the

first Keesler “Dragon’s Breath” Toastmasters Club meeting on 24 February. The

Toastmasters Club would teach public speaking and leadership skills to KAFB

members.

7 Feb Colonel William Hunter, 81 TRW/CC, directed commanders and supervisors to

review updated guidance for travel risk assessments. Colonel Hunter informed

leaders the Department of Defense (DoD) revised protocols on 10 January for

personnel traveling during the COVID-19 pandemic.

8 Feb The 81 Force Support Squadron (81 FSS) announced the United States Air Force

(USAF) transitioned to a new Enlisted and Officer evaluation system called

myEvaluation (myEval). Additionally, the 81 FSS noted this change boosted the

IT and talent management transformations for Total Force Airmen and Guardians.

8 Feb The KAFB Black History Month Observance Committee held a ZUMBA class to

celebrate Black Health and Wellness at the Blake Fitness Center Gymnasium.

11 Feb The Defense Health Agency (DHA) offered each beneficiary a maximum of eight

free COVID-19 test kits per month each 90 days through Tricare. The Military

Treatment Facilities (MTFs) would provide the kits to each identification (ID)

card holder.

11 Feb - The 81 MDG deployed a Medical Response Team (MRT) to the University of 17

17 Mar Rochester Strong Memorial Hospital Level One Trauma Center in New York

State. The MRT supported the COVID-19 pandemic response by offering skilled

support and services to patients. The team included four physicians, eleven

registered nurses, two respiratory therapists, two medical technicians, and one

administrative Airman.

13 Feb The 2nd AF/CC, Major General Michele Edmondson, and the 81 TRW/CC,

Colonel William Hunter, along with their spouses attended the Fred Haise Statue

Unveiling Ceremony. Mr. Haise had served as an Apollo 13 astronaut and fighter

pilot. The ceremony took place at the Biloxi Lighthouse. Mr. Haise, The

Honorable Andrew “FoFo” Gilich, Mayor of the City of Biloxi, and other local

leaders spoke at this event.

15-17 Feb The 333rd TRS represented the 81 TRW at the Headquarters Air Combat

Command (HQ ACC) Cyber Training Consortium at Joint Base Langley-Eustis,

Virginia. Major Adam Ray and Captain Jason Kimball of the 333rd TRS

presented an overview of how the 333rd TRS taught students cyber training. They

explained the 333rd TRS trained Joint Cyber Forces to win our nation’s wars.

18 Feb The Black History Month and African American Heritage Committee offered the

KAFB community a chance to network as they embraced art. The participants

painted, enjoyed appetizers, and sipped beverages at the Keesler Arts and Crafts

Center.

18-20 Feb KAFB helped approximately 60 Special Olympics of Mississippi athletes train for

their summer games. Eighty KAFB staff members assisted these competitors in

golf, powerlifting, bowling, and other activities. The athletes also played the

KAFB “Chiefs and Eagles” in a softball game. The 2022 Special Olympics USA

Games took place from 5 through 12 June in Orlando, Florida.

22 Feb Colonel Marcia Smith, 81st Inpatient Operations Squadron (81 IPTS), acted as the

guest speaker at the Black History Month Gospel Brunch in the BBEC. The 81st

Medical Group (81 MDG), in conjunction with the 81 TRW, sponsored this

Health and Wellness activity.

22 Feb The 81 TRW/PA announced changes to the Sexual Assault and Prevention

Program (SAPR). One new option permitted Service-Members to still file a

Restricted Report even if the Chain of Command knew about it. Furthermore,

Service-Members whose adult family members filed an Unrestricted Report to the

SAPR Office could request an expedited transfer.

1 Mar Senior KAFB leaders rode in floats at the Gulf Coast Carnival Association Mardi

Gras parade in Biloxi. The KAFB representatives included Colonel William

Hunter, 81 TRW/CC, and his wife Blanca.

3 Mar The 81 TRW transitioned from HPCON B to HPCON A and lifted the face mask

mandate for vaccinated members. However, people still had to wear mask indoors

on KAFB if they were not fully vaccinated. Nevertheless, the Keesler Medical

Center (KMC) and the Child Development Center maintained their face mask

mandate for their facilities.

3 Mar Major Kurtis Snyder Jr, 81st Logistics Readiness Squadron Commander (81

LRS/CC), instructed members to prepare as early as possible for upcoming

permanent change of station (PCS) moves. Major Snyder added that commercial

trucking labor shortages would cause significant delays during PCS moves this

summer. Moreover, Major Snyder urged members to be flexible when scheduling

their PCS during the peak moving season of 15 May through 31 August.

9 Mar The 81 TRW hosted its Dragon University Open House at the BBEC. The new

school offered a Professional Development Incentive Program to all KAFB

Service-Members and civilian employees.

11 Mar The 81 TRW held a Women’s History Month Business and Information Fair at

the BBEC. The 81 TRW entitled the theme of the event “Providing healing and

promoting hope.”

12 Mar One hundred-and-five KAFB Airmen marched in the Hibernia Marching Society

of Mississippi’s Annual Saint Patrick’s Day Parade in Biloxi. The 81 TRW/CC,

Colonel William Hunter, and the 81 TRW/CV, Colonel James Kafer, participated

from the reviewing stand of the Biloxi mayor at City Hall.

16 Mar Colonel William Hunter, 81 TRW/CC, presented a 10-minute update on KAFB

activities during the Military One Coast Annual Meeting. The gathering took

place at the Knight Nonprofit Center in Gulfport, Mississippi. Colonel Stuart

Rubio, 403rd Wing Commander (403rd WG/CC), also spoke at the meeting along

with other local senior military leaders.

18 Mar The Air Force Assistance Fund (AFAF) held a free Irish-themed spread at BBEC

third floor lounge in conjunction with Saint Patrick’s Day. The AFAF supported

the Air Force Aid Society, Air Force Enlisted Village, Mrs. Curtis E. LeMay

Foundation, and the Air Force Villages Charitable Foundation.

18 Mar Colonel William Hunter, 81 TRW/CC, issued an updated mask and screening

testing guidance memorandum to KAFB. The 81 TRW/CC granted personnel and

visitors, regardless of vaccination status, the option to not wear face masks.

However, Colonel Hunter still mandated face masks to access an 81st Medical

Group (81 MDG) facility. The 81 TRW/CC said as long as the COVID-19

Community Level remained low, face masks would be optional. Therefore,

Colonel Hunter maintained the Health Protection Condition Alpha (HPCON A) in

accordance with the low COVID-19 Community Level.

21 Mar Mrs. Deatrice Jimerson, 81 TRW Civilian Personnel Officer, informed 81 TRW

Senior Leaders about new COVID-19 workplace re-entry guidance. Mrs.

Jimerson cited a 16 March memorandum from the Deputy Secretary of Defense,

The Honorable Kathleen H. Hicks, for this updated guidance. The new workplace

flexibilities incorporated telework along with planning for work locations and

schedules.

22 Mar Colonel William Hunter, 81 TRW/CC, and Colonel Stuart Rubio, 403 Wing/CC,

joined other KAFB Senior Leaders at the Biloxi Chamber of Commerce

Breakfast. The Mayor of the City of Biloxi, The Honorable Andrew “FoFo”

Gilich, also attended this gathering at the Merit Health Biloxi’s Cafeteria in

Biloxi. Colonel Hunter presented Mayor Gilich and the City of Biloxi Chief

Administrative Officer, Mr. Michael Leonard, KAFB economic impact statements

at the breakfast.

28-29 Mar The 81st Security Forces (81 SFS) and the Naval Security Force for Naval

Construction Battalion Center Gulfport conducted joint legal training at KAFB.

The participants received lectures about crime scene procedures during the first

day of the course. Furthermore, the attendees practically applied their skills in

mock court room proceedings.

28 Mar- AETC Schoolhouse Commanders and related Career Field Managers (CFMs) met

1 Apr during a KAFB CFM Working Group. They devised plans to boost Airmen-

centric mission-focused training. The event ended with a Drill Down competition.

31 Mar The U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Ohio, Western Division issued

an injuction for disciplinary action for Active Duty COVID-19 Vaccine Refusals.

Therefore, the court ordered the USAF to stop taking adverse actions until the end

of the litigation for the Doster v. Kendall case.

8 Apr Mrs. Deatrice Jimerson, Civilian Personnel Officer, emailed 81 TRW Senior

Leaders that the nationwide injunction blocking mandatory COVID-19

vaccinations was no longer in effect.

11 Apr Lieutenant Colonel (Lt Col) Anthony Perez, 81st Force Support Squadron,

announced the Keesler UNITE Program, a unit resiliency program, would be

available on KAFB. Furthermore, Lt Col Perez said Active- Duty members,

Reservists, Appropriated Fund Civilians, and Non-appropriated Fund Civilians

could participate in this activity. Moreover, Lt Col Perez explained this program

offered recreation and fun to enhance unit cohesion within squadrons.

12 Apr Colonel William Hunter, 81 TRW/CC, revealed three 81 TRW Airmen received

AETC Outstanding Airmen of the Year Awards. Senior Airman (SrA) Joshua L.

S. Rodriguez, 81st Training Support Squadron, earned the AETC Airman of the

Year honor. Staff Sergeant Blake S. Bennett, 338th Training Squadron (338

TRS), won the Honor Guard Member of the Year recognition. Technical Sergeant

(TSgt) Alvin R. Morris, 336th Training Squadron (336 TRS), received the

Military Training Leader of the Year Award.

15 Apr Colonel Matthew Hopkins, 334 TRS/CC, gave the opening and closing remarks at

the Airman First Class (A1C) Antoine Holt Memorial 5K Run/Walk. The activity

took place at the Levitow Training Support Facility Drill Pad. Colonel Hopkins

and CMSgt Mark Paraoan, 334 TRS/SEL, presented trophies. Additionally,

Colonel James Kafer, 81 TRW/CV, and CMSgt Sarah Esparza attended this

event.

22 Apr Colonel James Kafer, 81 TRW CV, gave remarks during the Earth Day Ceremony

and presented a plaque for this occasion. The activity took place at the Airman’s

Oak on the corner of Meadows Avenue and First Street.

26 Apr The annual Keesler Technology Expo offered networking opportunities for the

KAFB community with hi-tech companies at the Roberts CAM Facility

Auditorium. The 81st Communications Squadron (81 CS) and the Armed Forces

Communications and Electronics Association (AFCEA) co-hosted this activity.

27 Apr Colonel William Hunter, 81 TRW/CC, announced two AETC individual and team

award recipients. The 333rd TRS earned the AETC 2021 General Larry O.

Spencer Innovation Award for Undergraduate Cyber Warfare Training Course

Instructors. Staff Sergeant Kristen K. Adams, 335 TRS, received the AETC 2022

American Legion Spirit of Service Award.

28 Apr Keesler Air Force Base presented an Arbor Day program outside of the Child

Development Center. Colonel William Hunter, 81 TRW/CC, Colonel Stuart

Rubio, 403 WG/CC, and Meacham Harlow, Urban & Community Forestry

Partnership Coordinator, led the ceremony.

2 May The Hunt Housing contractor renovated 40 homes through the Keesler Housing

Moisture Remediation Program (MRP). Nevertheless, incoming Airmen incurred

on and off base housing shortages. The MRP encompassed 365 homes, which

included 30 percent of the base housing. Unfortunately, 257 of the MRP homes

remained vacant. Both Hunt Housing and the Assistant Secretary of the Air Force

Energy, Installations, and Environment submitted fund solutions. However, they

must receive approval from the Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD) before

implementing these plans.

3-13 May The 81 MDG participated in the U.S. Northern Command (NORTHCOM)

Defense Chemical Biological Radiological Nuclear Force Response Force

(DCRF) Guardian Resolve -22 Exercise. The 81 MDG deployed 96 members to

Camp Atterbury, Indiana to rehearse for Defense Civil Response Force

contingencies. More than 3,000 personnel took part in this joint exercise. The 81

MDG DCRF deployment team earned a citation for setting an Air Force record,

33 hours, for constructing a fully mission capable field hospital.

4 May Keesler Air Force Base (KAFB) hosted an Air Expeditionary Force (AEF)

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony behind Jones Hall. Approximately 700 students each

year would attend the Radio Frequency Operations Apprentice Course in the AEF

Training Area. Lt Col Tobiah Jones, 338th TRS/CC, and U.S. Army Captain

Olivia Theodore, 823rd Red Horse Squadron Project Engineer, cut the ceremonial

ribbon together.

9 May The 81st SFS and the Biloxi SWAT conducted joint training at Keesler Air Force

Base.

11 May The 81 TRG and the 81 SFS participated in the Biloxi Shuckers Education Day

for local public-school students at the nearby MGM Stadium. The 81 TRG

provided displays including radio, radar airfield, and weather systems.

Additionally, the 81 SFS presented a Military Working Dog demonstration to the

children, parents, and educators.

13-15 May KAFB hosted the 2022 Special Olympics Mississippi Summer (SOMS) Games

after a two-year absence due to COVID-19 restrictions. The opening ceremony

occurred 13 May at the Levitow Training Support Facility Drill Pad. Colonel

James Kafer, 81 TRW/CV, gave the opening remarks. Mr. Warren Gaffney, 81

CS, served as the emcee.

17 May The majority of Department of Air Force (DAF) civilian employees transitioned

to become Defense Health Agency (DHA) staff. Most DAF civilian employees at

the 81st MDG continued their duties as members of the DHA. The DHA assumed

control of military medical treatment facilities (MTFs) on 30 September 2021 in

accordance with the National Defense Authorization Acts of 2017 and 2019.

20 May Keesler Air Force Base honored fallen law enforcement during a National Police

Week Retreat Ceremony at the Base Flagpole in front of the 81 TRW

Headquarters.

20 May Some members of the KAFB community participated in the Asian-American and

Pacific Islander Heritage (AAPI) Month Family Night on the BBEC Lawn. The

AAPI Committee offered the families bounce houses, the Disney movie “Moana,”

and the option to purchase meals from AAPI food trucks.

26 May Colonel William Hunter, 81 TRW/CC, and Biloxi Mayor, Andrew “FoFo” Gilich,

slashed the ribbon during the Division Street Gate Ribbon Cutting Ceremony.

Additionally, Major General Michele Edmondson, 2nd AF/CC, took part in the

ribbon cutting. Furthermore, Colonel Hunter provided remarks. Brigadier

General Thomas Harrell, (AFMRA/CC), U.S. Representative Steven Palazzo, and

several other distinguished visitors also attended the ceremony.

31 May The 81

MDG transitioned away from a dedicated COVID-19 Testing Clinic.

Beneficiaries took their tests as walk-in patients at their assigned primary clinic.

However, members would not be eligible for leisure travel COVID-19 testing at

the Keesler Medical Center because TRICARE did not cover it.

31 May The 81 MDG Pharmacy flight implemented a plan to expedite prescription

dispensing with enhanced technology. The Pharmacy flight acquired $119,000 to

upgrade dispensing capacity with smart filing cabinets. Furthermore, they

partnered with the 81st Civil Engineer Squadron (81 CES) to improve the traffic

patterns around the pharmacy.

18 Jun The new Division Street Gate opened to personally owned vehicles (POVs).

However, the Commercial Vehicle Gate and the Visitor Center, still under

construction, would open later.

30 Jun The Keesler Air Force Base (KAFB) community enjoyed Freedom Fest during

the Independence Day holiday weekend at the BBEC. The attendees had the

opportunity to play a variety of games, taste a wide assortment of food, and watch

fireworks.

12 Jul Lieutenant General Caroline M. Miller, Deputy Chief of Staff (DCS) for

Manpower, Personnel and Services announced a name change for the Airman and

Family Readiness Center (A&FRC). Lt Gen Miller revealed the activity would be

designated the Military and Family Readiness Center (M&FRC). She said the new

name would be more inclusive of the USAF and Space Force joint communities.

21 Jul The USAF initiated the Connect to Care (CTC) Approach and Implementation to

support sexual assault victims. The program established the “No Wrong Door”

principle to smoothly transition clients from one service provider to another

without barriers to their care.

29 Jul The 81 TRW flew the flag of the United States at half-staff to honor the late

CMSgt of the Air Force, James M. McCoy, USAF Retired.

1 Aug The 81 MDG consolidated all outpatient pharmacy services at the Exchange

Satellite Pharmacy. The 81 MDG took this action in response to projected staffing

shortages. However, the 81 MDG expected to restore normal pharmacy operations

after resolving their personnel issues.

5 Aug The 81 FSS held the grand opening of the Indoor Golf Simulator at the Bay

Breeze Golf Course on KAFB.

9 Aug Colonel William Hunter, 81 TRW/CC, congratulated the AETC Annual Tech

Training Winners via an email to the KAFB community. TSgt Melissa R.

Anderson, 334 TRS, earned the Instructor Non-Commissioned Officer Category

recognition. Master Sergeant Kendra Harris, 334 TRS, received the Instructor

Senior Non-Commissioned Officer Category award. Additionally, the Training

Support Senior Non-Commissioned Officer Category recognition went to MSgt

Bradley Boltz from the 81st Training Support Squadron (81 TRSS). Mrs. Lauren

Lowe, 338th TRS, earned the Training Support Civilian (Category one) Category

award. Furthermore, Mr. Michael Gulino won the Training Support Civilian

(Supervisory) Category recognition.

15 Aug The new Visitor Control Center (VCC) opened at the Division Street Gate.

However, the Commercial Vehicle Gate at the Division Street Gate remained

closed due to ongoing construction.

21 Aug – The Keesler Immunization Clinic offered Active Duty members and appropriated

1 Sep fund civilian employees Novavax vaccinations to prevent COVID. The eligible

individuals could visit the clinic for the first dosage and then return 21 days later

for the final vaccination. Novavax provided an alternative to members seeking

waivers from mRNA COVID vaccines.

22 Aug The Honorable Gina Ortiz Jones, Under Secretary of the Air Force (USECAF),

approved all outdoor Department of the Air Force (DAF)-sponsored in-person

meetings with less than 250 participants. Additionally, the USECAF permitted

indoor meetings with less than 250 attendees. Ms. Ortiz Jones added that these

activities could occur in a county where the CDC Community Level was “High.”

Nevertheless, the USECAF noted organizations must implement Force Health

Protection mitigation measures for these gatherings to take place.

22-24 Aug The 81st TRG connected with the Salute to Life program to register members of

the training squadrons as potential bone marrow donors. The volunteers joined a

national database in which they could possibly become a match for a hopeful

bone marrow recipient.

25 Aug Colonel Jason Allen, 81st TRW/CV, gave opening remarks at the Keesler Air

Force Base 81st Birthday Celebration. MSgt Larry McAnally, USAF Retired,

served as the guest speaker. The activity occurred in the Levitow Training

Support Facility Fishbowl.

26 Aug Major General Michele Edmondson, 2nd AF/CC, served as panel member during

the KAFB Women’s Equality Day Celebration in the BBEC Second Floor

Ballroom. The event recognized the date, 26 August 1920, the 19th Amendment

to the U.S. Constitution authorized women to vote.

9 Sep The Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training Unit (CNATTU) hosted a 9/11

Memorial Ceremony in front of the 81st TRW Headquarters at the Base Flagpole.

The event honored the approximately 3,000 victims who died during the 11

September 2001 terrorist attacks. The 81st TRW/CC, Colonel Bill Hunter, and

other 81st TRW Senior Leaders attended the ceremony.

16 Sep The 81st TRW conducted a Prisoner of War (POW)/Missing in Action (MIA)

retreat at the base flagpole in front of the 81st TRW Headquarters.

17 Sep The 81st Training Wing (81 TRW) hosted the United States Air Force 75th

Birthday Ball at the IP Casino Resort Spa in Biloxi. Retired Air Force General

Robin Rand served as the guest speaker.

3 Oct DoD identification card holders began using the 81 LRS Base Shuttle bus

Monday through Friday from 5:00 in the morning until 5:00 in the evening. The

Base Shuttle replaced the installation taxi service. However, if the member

displayed COVID-19 symptoms they could not board the bus. Nevertheless, the

member could call the Ground Transportation Dispatch to ask for separate

transportation to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.

7 Oct The 81st MDG hosted the annual Health and Wellness Expo in the Don Wiley

Auditorium at the Keesler Medical Center (KMC). Beneficiaries took advantage

of health screenings, flu vaccinations and even prizes during this activity.

13 Oct The KAFB housing contractor, Hunt, received approval from the Deputy

Assistant Secretary of the Air Force-Installations (SAF/IEI) for a 58 million dollar

Moisture Remediation Program (MRP). The new funding should enable Hunt to

accelerate renovations to 25 homes per month for the 793 homes awaiting repairs.

Hunt had renovated 235 homes at this point during the MRP.

21 Oct DoD cardholders and their guests returned to the reopened Keesler Marina Fuel

Pier. The site had been undergoing repairs since 2020. Furthermore, the Keesler

Marina acquired some Bennington pontoon boats to boost the recreational

opportunities at the facility.

14 Nov The 81st FSS Civilian Personnel Flight hosted a KAFB Job Fair in the BBEC.

Twenty-seven employers such as the Keesler Commissary, the University of

Southern Mississippi, and Vectrus sought new workers at this activity.

Additionally, candidates took a resume classes and USA Jobs navigation lessons.

More than 170 job seekers came to the job.

5 Dec Colonels and Chief Master Sergeants (CMSgts) competed in the second annual

Chief V Eagles Softball Game at MGM Park in Biloxi. City of Biloxi Mayor

Andrew “FoFo” Gilich threw the ceremonial first pitch. In addition, the 81st SFS

presented a military working dog demonstration before the game for the audience.

Moreover, the 338th put on a freestyle drill competition during the pre-game

activities.

13 Dec Major General Michele Edmondson, 2nd AF/CC, relieved Colonel William

Hunter, 81st TRW/CC, of his command. Major General Edmondson cited a loss

of trust and confidence in the capability of Colonel Hunter to successfully lead the

81st TRW for this action. Major General Edmondson appointed the 81st

TRW/CV, Colonel Jason Allen, as the acting 81st TRW/CC.

81 TRW History Office

Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi

July 2023