14th Flying Training Wing Bids Farewell to POW Legend Lt. Col. Gene Smith
February 05, 2026
February 05, 2026
RANDOLPH AFB, Texas, Feb. 5 -- The U.S. Air Force Air Education and Training Command issued the following news:
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A Final Salute
By Senior Airman Jessica Blocher, 14 FTW PA
COLUMBUS AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. - The morning hum of the 14th Flying Training Wing felt markedly different following the passing of a giant. At Smith Plaza, a location lined with heritage and named in his honor, the air held a distinct stillness as the "Blaze" . . .
* * *
A Final Salute
By Senior Airman Jessica Blocher, 14 FTW PA
COLUMBUS AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. - The morning hum of the 14th Flying Training Wing felt markedly different following the passing of a giant. At Smith Plaza, a location lined with heritage and named in his honor, the air held a distinct stillness as the "Blaze" . . .