Columbus Air Force Base celebrates 72nd Birthday Ball

LOWNDES COUNTY, Miss. (WCBI) – Columbus Air Force Base has reached a milestone.

Columbus Air Force Base turned a new age in style.

On Saturday, airmen and guests gathered in the Trotter Convention Center to celebrate the Air Force’s 72nd birthday and 50 Years of Modern Pilot Training.

“It is a great opportunity for Columbus Air Force Base to continue a mission that it has been doing in the Golden Triangle Region for over 72 years,” said Colonel Samantha Weeks.

Weeks is the Commander of the 14th Flying Training Wing. She said the goal of the base is to connect and create the world’s most advanced generation of pilots.

“Creating pilots is paramount to our national defense right now, so we are proud that this community and our base can tribute to our national defense by making sure that we have the pilots to defend our nation, day in and day out from here, ” said Weeks.

Retired General Lloyd W. “Fig” Newton, who last served at Randolph Air Force Base as Commander of Headquarters Air Education and Training Command was the guest speaker.

General Newton said this accomplishment opens many doors for the future.

“I think the future is very very bright, not only for us as a country and for our air force, but I think the future is bright for Columbus Air Force Base as well. They’re doing terrific work out there, there’s a great pilot training system that is engaged there and so I’m just very very pleased, ” said Newton.

Overall, Newton and Weeks were excited for more achievements within the Air Force Base.

“Reflect over what we’ve done the last year together as airmen as well as the community and look forward to the next year where we can continue to grow and cultivate the seeds that we have planted,” said Weeks.

Over 300 airmen and guests were in attendance for the birthday ball.