Press Releases

WASHINTON, DC — Today, Rep. Jodey C. Arrington (TX-19) released the following statement congratulating Dyess Air Force Base and the Abilene Community. 

“The best is in the West when it comes to bombers and bases,” said Rep. Arrington. “Congratulations to the airmen at Dyess AFB and the Abilene community for sweeping the competition in the Global Strike Challenge!”

Background:
The Barksdale Trophy was presented to Abilene on Wednesday at the Air Force’s Global Strike Command’s Bi-annual Global Strike Challenge Awards Ceremony. This is the second time in four years that Abilene has received the distinguished award. The Barksdale Trophy is awarded to a community that demonstrates:

• Support of Dyess Airmen and their families;
• Improvements in infrastructure on and near the base;
• Engagement with local, state and federal elected officials;
• Development of relationships with Air Force officials, both personal and professional;
• Communication of the story of Abilene and Dyess.

In addition to the city of Abilene winning the Barksdale Trophy for its exemplary support of Dyess AFB, Dyess airmen also won four competitions in the Global Strike Challenge:

• Eaker Trophy, Best B-1 Squadron - 28th Bomb Squadron, Dyess AFB
• Mitchell Trophy, Best Bomb - 28th Bomb Squadron, Dyess AFB
• Ellis Giant Sword Trophy, Best Bomber Maintenance - 7th Bomb Wing, Dyess AFB
• Fairchild Trophy, Best Bomb Wing - 7th Bomb Wing, Dyess AFB

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