Keesler AFB, Miss., which took heavy damage from Hurricane Katrina, is making huge strides in getting back on its feet, Gen. William Looney, head of Air Education and Training Command, tells Air Force Magazine’s John Tirpak. In fact, the base could be back up to its full complement of 1,400 students in a matter of weeks. “We were very fortunate,” Looney says, that many base facilities—dormitories, classrooms, dining hall, and other buildings—“were built to a 175-knot standard” of wind tolerance, and survived intact. Base housing and industrial areas took the biggest hit.
Airmen basic rarely go on to become four-star generals, but one who did retired last week after a 42 year career that saw him rise from a lowly slick-sleeve to the head of one of the Air Force’s most important major commands.