LRAFB Civic Leader receives Tampa Bay Trophy

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Dana Cable
  • 19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

The Tampa Bay Trophy recognizes a civic leader whose lifetime achievement and distinguished service to the United States Air Force Air Mobility Command epitomizes the cooperation between civilian and military communities.

“Larry Wilson has dedicated countless years to helping Little Rock Air Force Base,” said Col. Angela Ochoa, 19th Airlift Wing and installation commander. “I cannot think of a more deserving individual who exemplifies the partnership between our local community and base. His work has been vital to accomplishing our mission and cultivating resilient Airmen and families. We are extremely thankful and blessed to have Larry as part of our family.”

An acclaimed advocate for Jacksonville for over 40 years, Wilson’s leadership has strengthened the relationship between the base and the local community. He was appointed by Governor Asa Hutchinson to the state’s Military Affairs Council where he assisted in the effort to pass legislation that provides Active Duty and retired pay income tax exemptions for military personnel in Arkansas.

Wilson’s leadership helped the city of Jacksonville earn the 2009, 2011 and 2019 Abilene Trophies for Air Mobility Command’s best community support, Air Education and Training Command’s 2019 Altus Trophy, and the 2020 Great American Defense Community Award.

The Tampa Bay Trophy was created in 2016 by the Tampa Bay Defense Alliance and honors a civilian each year for their distinguished service and contributions to our nation’s Air Force servicemen and women.