MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. -- Deeply ‘rooted’ in the Valdosta community stands a stoic tree, withstanding the test of time.
To commemorate its historic legacy, Team Moody and the local community celebrated the tree’s induction into the Live Oak Society registry, earning the name “Flying Tiger Oak,” April 28, here.
“Flying Tiger Oak’s successful registration in the Live Oak Society places it amongst other recognized trees across the country and shows the dedication of Moody’s commitment to protecting and promoting the local environment,” said 2nd Lt. Matthew Jacobs, 23d Civil Engineering Squadron project programmer.
“I don't think many, if any, other installations in the U.S. have a tree in the Live Oak Society, Jacobs added. “As our country and our Air Force have started to recognize the importance, and therefore seek the protection of our environment over the last few decades, it is promising to see such a prominent symbol of a healthy environment such as the Flying Tiger Oak. This tree is important to not only to the environment but also to the culture and tradition of Moody as well.”
Extending wide and reaching high into the skies with a girth of over 18 feet, the tree is one of two nationally registered live oaks in Lowndes County, Ga. Flying Tiger Oak tree joins a select few of approximately 8,300 live oaks across 14 states that carries this prestigious tradition, location and size.
According to Kenneth Sloat, 23d Wing historian, it’s an honor to have the tree become a part of the national registry. While the beauty of it makes it a landmark, Sloat says it’s the historic background that makes Flying Tiger Oak majestic.
“The tree was a part of the community before we were here and it’s a link between us and the community in the past,” said Sloat. “[Flying Tiger Oak] speaks to the enduring and permanent relationship between Moody and Valdosta.
“Moody has a long history of embracing change and enduring,” Sloat added. “And yet, through it all, there are two constants in our history that remain even today: we’ve always been engaged in training America’s combat Airmen to defend our country and we’ve always had a spectacular relationship with the local community.”
Further solidifying this strong relationship, Dr. Lucy Greene, Moody Support Committee executive director, reached out to Donald Davis, Lowndes County Historical Museum executive director, about getting the tree recognized. Following Dr. Green’s spearheaded efforts, Moody base leadership applied to the LOS, awaiting the results.
On a sunny spring afternoon, the wait was over as the two communities celebrated the tree garnering the name “Flying Tiger Oak”. As a ribbon unveiled the plaque staked into the ground, the tree officially cemented the bond between Moody and Valdosta.