During the 2025 Kirtland Air Fiesta held May 31 to June 1, the U.S. Army Parachute Team—the Golden Knights—honored Senior Airman Liberty Estrada with a ceremonial "Flight Baton" presentation.
Estrada, originally from Irving, Texas, and a MacArthur High School graduate, serves as a Maintenance Manager with the 58th Maintenance Group at Kirtland Air Force Base. She was selected to receive the baton following her recognition as Airman of the Year at the Air Education and Training Command.
Assigned to the 58th Special Operations Wing, Estrada played a key role in launching the first-ever AC-130J unit, identifying 1,600 data requirements and overseeing the integration of 300 Airmen and six aircraft valued at $1.1 billion.
Estrada also ranked first among seven candidates selected for the elite Below the Zone early promotion program, further highlighting her leadership and performance.
The Flight Baton, presented during Golden Knights demonstrations, symbolizes excellence, tradition, and precision. It is typically used in ceremonial gestures to honor distinguished individuals or commemorate significant contributions.
The Kirtland Air Fiesta drew thousands of attendees and featured aerial performances, military displays, and recognition of service members’ achievements.
