Alamogordo Etches Its Name in History Once More: Securing the 2025 ALTUS Trophy for Unparalleled Military-Community Partnership

ALAMOGORDO, NM – The Tularosa Basin community has achieved a remarkable national milestone, as the Altus Chamber of Commerce, in collaboration with the U.S. Air Force's Air Education and Training Command (AETC), proudly named Alamogordo the recipient of the 2025 ALTUS Trophy. This prestigious award marks the city's second victory in just three years, following its first triumph in 2023, underscoring the exceptional, enduring bond between Alamogordo and Holloman Air Force Base (HAFB), home to the 49th Wing.

The ALTUS Trophy honors communities that demonstrate extraordinary support for their local AETC wing or tenant unit, evaluating nominees on education, housing, quality of life, volunteerism, economic integration, and mission readiness. Alamogordo's repeat win places it among an elite few nationwide, affirming its role as a model partner that goes far "above and beyond" to welcome, support, and integrate Airmen, Guardians, and their families.

Pillars of Excellence: Building a Foundation for Success

A few accomplishments of what sets Alamogordo apart:

Education Excellence and Infrastructure Investment — Through the Public School Military Installation (PSMI) program, the city secured $34.2 million for the new Holloman Elementary School and $59.6 million for Holloman Middle School securing state of the art facilities for Holloman operated by APS. These modern facilities meet the needs of military children while deepening ties with Alamogordo Public Schools, including enhanced programs at Alamogordo High School for career readiness and support tailored to mobile military families.

Addressing the Housing Crisis Head-On — Tackling long-standing shortages, city and Otero County commissioners partnered in incentives to bring the first major new apartment complexes to Alamogordo in over two decades. Designed for military families with tax abatements and incentives, these units are set to break ground in 2026, offering modern, affordable homes near the base with family-focused amenities.

The Mutual Power of Volunteerism and Integration — Reciprocity defines the relationship: Holloman personnel have contributed thousands of volunteer hours to Alamogordo's MainStreet program, the F4 refurbishing, nonprofits, the Dudley School rehabilitation, community events, and civic projects, weaving base life seamlessly into the fabric of downtown and the overall community vitality.

The "Five and Thrive" Initiative: A Gold Standard in Welcoming Families

Danielle Rondelez's leadership of the "Five and Thrive Program" stood out in 2025 and into 2026 as a key information tool for military families. This initiative focuses on five pillars—employment, education, healthcare, community involvement, and personal development—providing military spouses and families with job placement, networking, resources, and ongoing support. What started as a structured program has become a community-wide ethos, embraced by local businesses, schools, providers, and organizations to help families not just adapt but truly flourish.

A Lasting Symbol: The Gateway Freedom Monument and F-4 Phantom II

The Alamogordo/Holloman partnership's enduring legacy is embodied in the Gateway Freedom Monument (commonly known as F-4 Park), located at the prominent intersection of US-70 and US-54 (1301 N White Sands Blvd). The centerpiece is a fully restored F-4 Phantom II—one of the iconic Cold War-era jets that served Holloman for nearly five decades.

The restoration, completed in late 2025 and unveiled with a ribbon-cutting on December 8, 2025, demanded over 11,500 volunteer hours from a dedicated team of active-duty Airmen, retired military personnel, local contractors, and community members who donated time, expertise, materials, and passion to bring the aircraft to its dramatic "gear up" display position.

Former Mayor Susan Payne prioritized recognizing these unsung heroes throughout her tenure. From her first days in office, she championed the military partnership, and in one of her final acts as mayor—during a City Commission meeting—she issued mayoral proclamations and commendations honoring the many active-duty and retired veterans who contributed thousands of hours of time and talent to the restoration. These honors celebrated their technical skill, patriotism, and commitment, while reaffirming the vital importance of the city-base relationship from her first day to her last.

Mayor-Elect (now Mayor) Sharon McDonald reinforced this continuity by authoring a strong endorsement letter for the ALTUS application. In it, she emphasized her unwavering commitment to further grow and build upon the strong relationship between the Office of the Mayor, the city of Alamogordo and Col. John Ethridge, along with Holloman leadership, ensuring ongoing collaboration and momentum.

The Gateway Freedom Monument project, a priority for Payne and carried forward by McDonald and the city commission under the city leadership of Acting City Manager Stephanie Hernandez (who serves as an Honorary Commander with the 49th Wing), exemplifies the "Golden Era" of cooperation characterized by open communication, joint efforts, and mutual respect.

Embracing Shared Values: Core Values and Resiliency in Action

More than projects, the ALTUS Trophy celebrates a profound alignment of spirit. Alamogordo has integrated the U.S. Air Force's Core Values—Integrity First, Service Before Self, Excellence in All We Do—and the Four Pillars of Resiliency into its civic identity. From the F-4's silent tribute at the city's gateway to the daily dedication of staff, educators, businesses, and volunteers, the message is unequivocal: Holloman's personnel are not just stationed here—they are cherished members of the community, essential to its present and future.

As Mayor McDonald reflects: “I am incredibly proud of our community’s achievement in securing the 2025 Altus Award, which recognizes the unwavering partnership between Alamogordo and Holloman Air Force Base. This honor is a testament to the exceptional leadership of former Mayor Susan Payne, a commitment by the city commission, Acting City Manager Stephenie Hernandez, Danielle Rondelez, the Chamber, citizen activists and the many dedicated individuals who have championed our commitment to supporting our military families and mission. Their tireless efforts, alongside Col. Ethridge and the Holloman team, have strengthened our bonds and ensured mission readiness for years to come. I also want to extend my deepest gratitude to the countless volunteers and community partners who have poured their hearts into creating the F4 Freedom Gateway Monument—a powerful symbol of our shared dedication. Furthermore, our vital partnership with the Otero County Commission has been instrumental in championing new apartment housing for military families, set to break ground in 2026, providing much-needed support for those who serve. And let’s not forget the innovative Thrive Guide, which warmly welcomes new military families and helps them integrate into our vibrant community. Together, we’ve shown what true collaboration looks like, and I am grateful for the vision and dedication that made this possible.”

In an era of frequent moves for military families, Alamogordo shines as a beacon of steadfast support, demonstrating that genuine partnership strengthens not only missions but also homes, hearts, and communities for generations to come.

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