KINGSLEY FIELD, Ore. — Kingsley Field STARBASE, a unique U.S. Department of Defense youth program offering hands-on science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) experiences, will continue to provide local youth with invaluable educational opportunities thanks to a concerted effort by the community and state representatives.
KINGSLEY FIELD, Ore. -- STARBASE Kingsley will be closing its doors to program operations on Friday, March 14th, 2025. This closure is not only impacting Kingsley Field’s site, but all 90 programs across the United States, Puerto Rico, and Guam.
For over three decades, STARBASE at Kingsley Field has played a pivotal role in shaping the future of local students by offering hands-on STEM education in an immersive, real-world environment. As the program faces potential funding uncertainty, the importance of keeping the STARBASE facility operational and well-funded has never been clearer, especially considering the wide-reaching benefits it provides to the children of the Klamath Basin.
Lt. Col. Richard Schuster, commander of the 173rd Maintenance Squadron, was recognized as the "Inspiring Leader of the Year" in Klamath Falls, Oregon for his exceptional leadership and contributions to the local community, January 28, 2025.
A change of command ceremony marked a major transition for the 173rd Fighter Wing when Col. Lee Bouma relinquished command to Col. Adam Gaudinski who stepped into the position on November 2, 2024.
The unique experience of becoming a F-15C Eagle pilot is normally a series of rigorous schools eventually landing you at Kingsley Field, but one individual received the fast pass to be a fighter pilot for a day.
The 173rd Fighter Wing had the honor to bring Carsen “Deadshot” Darnell to Kingsley Field as part of the Pilot for a Day program, Oct. 11, 2024.
The 173rd Fighter Wing, home of the premiere F-15C Eagle training school produces new pilots as part of its mission, but it is also home to experienced pilots who require requalification in the Eagle. Pilots from all around the country come to Kingsley to attend school, even the Deputy Director, Air National Guard, Maj. Gen. Duke Pirak.
