Remembering Lou Murray

A plaque commemorating Lou Murray’s 27 years of service to the 7th Communication Squadron as their honorary commander lies on a table August 7, 2014, at Dyess Air Force Base, Texas. Before relinquishing his position in April of 2014, Lou Murray was known for always bringing great energy and smiles to the Airmen in his Squadron. Honorary commanders attend various base/squadron events to become knowledgeable of their assigned unit’s mission and challenges. The plaque commemorating his time with the squadron has been hung in the 7th CS heritage room. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Peter Thompson/Released)

Photo Details / Download Hi-Res
Remembering Lou Murray

Mrs. Rhonna Murray, wife of the late Lou Murray, 7th Communication Squadron honorary commander, accepts a plaque and flowers from Maj. Kyle Takamura, 7th CS commander, and Lt. Col. Robert Mammenga, former 7 CS commander, during a ceremony commemorating Lou’s service and contributions to the unit August 7, 2014, at Dyess Air Force Base, Texas. Lou Murray served as the honorary commander for the 7th CS for 27 years. Before Lou became ill he would often participate in unit events or visit the squadron simply to give out treats and speak with the Airmen. He was always smiling. By understanding the operations tempo and functions of the Airmen assigned here, honorary commanders are able to communicate those stories of mission impact to a broader audience in the various community circles in which they operate. A plaque honoring Lou will permanently reside in the squadron’s heritage room. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Peter Thompson/Released)

Photo Details / Download Hi-Res
Remembering Lou Murray

U.S. Air Force Maj. Kyle Takamura, 7th Communication Squadron commander, and Mrs. Rhonna Murrey, wife of the late Lou Murray, former 7th CS honorary commander, hangs a plaque in commemoration of Lou Murray’s contribution as the 7th CS honorary commander August 7, 2014, at Dyess Air Force Base, Texas. Lou Murray served as the Honorary Commander for the 7th CS for 27 years. Before Lou became ill he would often participate in unit events or visit the squadron simply to give out treats and speak with the Airmen. The honorary commander program is designed to help local business and civic leaders gain a more complete understanding of the day-to-day operations of an Air Force base. Lou Murray passed away on April 13, 2014. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Peter Thompson/Released)

Photo Details / Download Hi-Res

Remembering Lou Murray

Published Aug. 11, 2014
By Senior Airman Peter Thompson
7th Bomb Wing Public Affairs

DYESS AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- The Dyess honorary commander program is designed to help Abilene business and civic leaders gain a more complete understanding of the day-to-day operations of Dyess Air Force Base. By understanding the operations tempo and functions of the Airmen assigned here, honorary commanders are able to communicate stories of mission impact to broadcast audiences in the various community circles in which they operate.

Each honorary commander attends various base/squadron events to become knowledgeable of their unit's mission and challenges.

In April 2014, the 7th Communication Squadron lost a member of its unit. Lou Murray served as the Squadron's honorary commander from January 1987 to January 2014. Lou always brought positive energy and smiles with him when he visited the squadron. Before becoming ill he would participate in base golf tournaments and bring gifts and treats to the squadron. He was known for giving selflessly to the unit.

Lou's wife, Rhonna Murray, was present on August 7th, when the squadron hung a plaque commemorating the 27 years Lou Murray dedicated to the 7th Communication Squadron.

"Lou loved begin here and spending time with you all," Rhonna Murray said. "He would be so happy to see this, Thank you."