Commander in chief visits Vance AFB

  • Published
  • By Capt. Tony Wickman and Tech. Sgt. Mary Davis
  • 71st Flying Training Wing Public Affairs
VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. (AFPN) --  The U.S. commander in chief stopped here May 6 en route to Oklahoma State University in Stillwater to give the commencement address. 

President George W. Bush was greeted by more than 300 servicemembers, civilians and their families. 

While the event was special for the base, it was the "best 17th birthday present in the world"  for Betsy Kriner, daughter of Col. Kevin Kriner, 71st Operations Group commander, and his wife, Mary.

“It was a once in a lifetime experience,” said the Enid High School junior, who received a hug and had her photo taken with the president. “This is a gift I will remember forever. What a great way to celebrate my 17th birthday.” 

Several state leaders were there to greet the president, including Sen. James Inhofe, Lt. Gov. Mary Fallin, Speaker of the Oklahoma House of Representatives Todd Hiett and Enid Mayor Ernie Currier. 

“This is a great day for Vance, and this is a great day for Enid,” the mayor said. “I couldn’t be happier that he visited our community.” 

This was an opportunity for Vance to showcase its support of the president of the United States, said Col. Bryan Benson, 71st Flying Training Wing commander.  

“The members of Team Vance and the citizens of Northwest Oklahoma were only too excited to host the president,” Colonel Benson said. “We hope next time he'll bring the first lady and stay a little longer.”