30 September 1950 – The International Astronautical Federation (IAF) was founded in 1951, when scientists from the field of space research gathered in an attempt to ensure a constant dialogue between the space nations, regardless of political turmoil. In its early years, the Federation and its annual International Astronautical Congresses – better known as the
Maj. Gen. Larry L. Twitchell is Chief, U.S. Military Training Mission, U.S. Central Command, Saudi Arabia, and the U.S. Defense Representative to Saudi Arabia. As Chief, U.S. Military Training Mission, he represents the U.S. Government and Saudi Arabian defense interests in the management of all foreign military sales, providing operational, training and logistical advisory support to all levels of the Saudi Arabian Armed Forces. As the U.S. Defense Representative, he represents the Secretary of Defense, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and Commander, U.S. Central Command, for coordination of administrative and security matters for all Department of Defense noncombatant command elements in Saudi Arabia.
General Twitchell enlisted in the Michigan Air National Guard in May 1965, receiving a direct commission in 1966. He attended pilot training at Webb Air Force Base, Texas, and received his wings in July 1967. After serving 15 years at Selfridge Air National Guard Base in Michigan, he transferred to the Air Force Reserve in 1982.
As a reservist, General Twitchell served at Homestead, Bergstrom, Langley, and Shaw Air Force bases, and he was called to active-duty in November 2003 to serve in his current position. As a career fighter and instructor pilot, he has commanded a fighter squadron, an air expeditionary wing, a provisional numbered air force and a joint task force. General Twitchell retired as vice president of flight operations from an airline after 28 years in commercial aviation.
