COMMUNITY SUPPORT
Holoman Air Force Base
Holloman Air Force Base and the city of Alamogordo celebrated this month as recipients of the 2023 ALTUS Trophy Award. This distinguished honor, awarded annually, recognizes the Air Force community that provides the most outstanding support to its Air Education Training Command (AETC) units. The award is presented by AETC leadership in partnership with the Altus Military Affairs Committee in Oklahoma. The relationship between the community and the military installation is critical to the growth and development of the team and the success of its mission. The levels of success achieved daily are attributed to the support from this exceptional community.
Throughout 2023, the community and members of the base collaborated to support various events and programs, including a marathon, a search program, and a Christmas parade. These events provided opportunities for friends and family to learn more about the base's mission and its people. The strong bond between the base and the community is built on their shared history, economic interdependence, and a common pioneering and resilient spirit. Supporting the base gives the local community a significant sense of pride and demonstrates appreciation for military personnel and their service to the country. Local organizations bring clubs and groups together to interact with service members and military families.
With over 12,000 military and civilian personnel living and working on the installation, the base accounts for approximately one-third of the community's population. The partnership between the community and the base enhances education, housing, and various community services, resulting in significant improvements for all residents. The relationship between the military members and the community is mutually beneficial, impacting various aspects of life and opportunities. A prime example of this partnership is the collaboration in building a new elementary school on Holloman AFB.
The award stands as a testament to the unwavering dedication and support that the community has for the base and its personnel. The unity and support received have strengthened the mission and the lives of those who serve.
“The Alamogordo Chamber of Commerce and its affiliate, MainGate United has incorporated the Five and Thrive elements into our Mission Statement and has become the primary focus within our entities. This proactive approach has resulted in major community wide paradigm shifts”.
Jerrett Perry, Executive Director, Alamogordo Chamber of Commerce
MainGate Mission Statement
The Mission of MainGate United is to provide support for the missions at Holloman Air Force Base, White Sands Missile Range, and Fort Bliss. Maingate United has codified the Five and Thrive elements and will strategically implement those into our overall mission. We will promote careful coordination, communication, and cooperation with all community partners, and all persons who share the goal of protecting, preserving, and promoting Holloman Air Force Base.
The codification of project R.I.S.E. (RESPECT, INTEGRITY, SERVICE and EXCELLENCE) has been adopted by the Alamogordo Chamber of Commerce, MainGate United, Otero County Commission, City of Alamogordo and the Alamogordo Public School District. The intent of RISE is to create a common language that promotes higher standards that interfaces with the Five and Thrive Mission for all Citizens of Otero County.
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