Alamogordo, NM – December 21, 2025 — As 2025 comes to a close, the story of Alamogordo is inseparable from Holloman Air Force Base. This year showcased not only military advancements and investments but also the profound community spirit that defines our town. Holloman personnel poured thousands of volunteer hours into local projects, while outgoing Mayor Susan Payne consistently recognized and celebrated the military’s contributions and her close relationship with base leadership. The city’s strong commitment to supporting Holloman was further demonstrated through plans for new military housing, set to break ground in 2026. Together, these efforts strengthened the fabric of our community, blending service, gratitude, and progress.

1. Record-Breaking Federal Investments Fuel Holloman’s Future

Holloman AFB received substantial federal funding in 2025, including part of a $183.8 million package for New Mexico Air Force installations. A key highlight was $700,000 earmarked for design and upgrades to the Holloman High Speed Test Track (HHSTT), a world-class facility critical for hypersonic and high-speed weapons testing. These investments reinforce Holloman’s position as a national asset for advanced defense research, promising long-term economic benefits and job opportunities for Alamogordo.

2. Leadership Transitions Usher in Fresh Momentum

Mid-year saw several command changes across Holloman units, reflecting the Air Force’s routine rotations while bringing new vision to base operations. Notable transitions included Col. Eric Quidley taking command of the 49th Mission Support Group, Col. Jonathan Kuntz leading the 54th Fighter Group, and new leadership in the 49th Medical Group and 49th Operations Group. These shifts, overseen by 49th Wing Commander Col. John Ethridge, emphasized continuity in F-16 training and community engagement.

3. Gateway Freedom Monument: A Lasting Tribute to Service

In December 2026, the Gateway Freedom Monument—featuring a restored F-4 Phantom jet—opened at the intersection of Highways 54 and 70. Led by the nonprofit Project RISE (incorporated in March 2025), this community-driven project raised over $140,000 and stands as a powerful symbol of gratitude to Holloman personnel and veterans. Danielle Rondelezserved as the first president of Project RISE, steering the initiative from its early stages through to near completion. The dedication ceremony drew hundreds, celebrating the unbreakable bond between the base and Alamogordo.

4. Thousands of Volunteer Hours: Holloman Gives Back to Alamogordo

Holloman AFB personnel demonstrated extraordinary commitment through volunteerism. In 2025, airmen and families contributed over 2,500 hours during the Casa Big Give campaign alone, supporting revitalization projects like downtown façade improvements, Dudley School Community Center Improvements and the Alameda Park Zoo education center. Additional efforts included 244 hours from the 54th OSS Group refreshing 15 New York Avenue buildings and hours restoring the Side Street Art Alley and nearby Dudley School further enhancements. These contributions, valued at tens of thousands in labor savings, transformed local spaces and highlighted the base’s role in community building.

5. Mayor Susan Payne’s Recognition of Military Service

Outgoing Mayor Susan Payne, frequently honored the military community. In her final City Commission meeting, she presented awards and plaques recognizing F-4 Monument volunteers and standout citizens who supported the military ties between the city of Alamogordo and Holloman AFB. She awarded mayoral citations to active-duty military personnel and ex-military residents who contributed thousands of hours of manpower to the Gateway Freedom Monument project valued at nearly 1/4 of a million dollars. Throughout her tenure, Payne praised Holloman’s contributions to events like Honor Flights, Veterans Day, and downtown revitalization, calling the military partnership one of her favorite aspects of serving as mayor.

6. Alamogordo’s Commitment to Military Housing

The City of Alamogordo reaffirmed its dedication to supporting Holloman AFB by advancing plans for new military housing. In 2025, city leaders worked closely with base officials and the Department of Defense to secure funding and approvals for additional family housing units, including projects like Sendero Apartments designed specifically for Holloman personnel and their families. These solar-powered, security-focused developments align with military housing allowances to make living in Alamogordo more accessible for enlisted individuals and families. Construction is scheduled to break ground in 2026, addressing long-standing needs for quality, near base accommodations and reinforcing Alamogordo’s role as a military-friendly community.

7. Honor Flight Ceremonies Honor Our Veterans

Twice in 2025, New York Avenue came alive with flags, cheers, and tears as local veterans returned from Honor Flights to Washington, D.C. Organized by the US Veterans Motorcycle Club Trinity Chapter and New Mexico Patriot Guard Riders, these April and September events honored WWII, Korean, and Vietnam-era heroes. They underscored Alamogordo’s deep appreciation for those who served.

8. Veterans Day Parade and Sounds of Freedom Festival

November brought a vibrant Veterans Day parade down 10th Street, followed by the Sounds of Freedom festival at Alameda Park. Free meals, art exhibits on military trauma, and community gatherings paid tribute to Holloman personnel and local veterans, reinforcing the city’s commitment to service.

9. Community Connections Day and Ace of Races

On September 6, thousands flocked to Holloman for the biennial Community Connections Day and Ace of Races. Aircraft displays, live demos, STEM activities, and a marathon strengthened ties between the base and Alamogordo families, highlighting Holloman’s role in training and outreach.

10. Safety Training Through Simulated Exercises

In July, Holloman conducted a Major Accident Response Exercise (MARE) simulating an F-16 crash to test emergency protocols. No actual incidents occurred, demonstrating the base’s focus on preparedness and safety.

11. Environmental Stewardship Amid PFAS Concerns

Ongoing updates addressed PFAS contamination in Holloman Lake, which remains closed to public access. Drinking water safety was assured, and remediation efforts continued to protect the community and environment.

In 2025, Alamogordo and Holloman AFB proved once again that we are more than neighbors—we are family. From volunteer hours that rebuilt our streets and schools to heartfelt recognitions by Mayor Payne, the military community’s generosity inspires us all. The city’s commitment to new housing in 2026 ensures our military families will continue to thrive here. As we move into the new year, these shared efforts remind us that our strength lies in unity, service, and the unbreakable bonds that make Alamogordo truly special.

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