Historic landmark's message renewed

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Marcy Copeland
  • 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, AZ --  As commuters traveled the base and Litchfield Road, all could see the bucket truck lifted toward the top of the water tower with men working, bringing new life to Luke Air Force Base's historic landmark.

Constructed more than 70 years ago, the tower bares the greeting "Welcome to Fighter Country" facing west and the Air and Education Training Command shield facing east. Since the view of the water tower can be seen throughout the valley, it is well known by the community as a landmark for the base.

"The water tower is a prominent structure that has been visible from almost any vantage point in the West Valley since its construction in 1941," said Matthew Hutchings, 56th Civil Engineer Squadron architect. "For this reason, it has become a landmark associated with Luke and for decades, it has been used as a billboard to proudly advertise Luke's mission."

Intense summers and immense sandstorms of the Arizona desert have contributed to the wear and fading of the paint, and the decision was made to hire outside contractors to repaint the shield and lettering.

"The work required specialized knowledge and equipment not possessed by 56th CES personnel," Hutchings said. "The height of the work combined with the need for creation of templates to replicate the original design made the choice of contracting a professional who specializes in painting water towers the most logical route."

With a 500,000-gallon capacity it provides potable water to the east of the Maj. Troy Gilbert Memorial Bridge, and it serves as a connecting point for Luke and the surrounding community.

"The words, 'Welcome to Fighter Country' have become a well-known slogan for Luke," Hutchings said. "Base leadership decided to keep with tradition and repaint these words as well as the AETC badge which can be seen from Litchfield Road.

The water tower serves as a permanent fixture and a permanent statement that this is where Luke Air Force Base is and this is our mission.