MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala. -- Civic, business, community, and base leaders came together for an Honorary Commander’s Induction Ceremony on July 12 to welcome new honorary commanders and introduce them to their respective 42nd Air Base Wing counterparts.
The 42nd ABW Honorary Commander’s Program connects leaders within the community to wing commanders to provide an opportunity to learn more about the base’s mission and strengthen relationships between the base and local communities.
Members appointed to this program represent an array of organizations and positions within the local community with various perspectives and experiences. They will partner with a commander and serve for a two-year term.
"The Honorary Commander's Program provides the opportunity to tell the story of Maxwell Air Force Base and the exceptional women and men here who deliver freedom," said Col. Eries L. G. Mentzer, 42nd ABW commander. "As honorary commanders, keep earning that title every day by telling the Air Force story, so together we can do our part to ensure the world's greatest Air Force for future generations."
Throughout their two-year tenure, the 42nd ABW honorary commanders will immerse with their respective unit counterparts, engaging with Airmen at commander’s calls, base tours, and other important mission and quality of life events.
“I am deeply honored to serve as an honorary commander at the 42nd Air Base Wing and to have this amazing opportunity to strengthen the University’s long standing relationship with Maxwell Air Force Base,” said Dr. Quinton T. Ross, Jr., Alabama State University’s President. “Participation in this program aligns directly with my CommUniversity initiative, which is part of ASU’s Focus 2030 Strategic Plan. As an honorary commander, I hope to foster partnerships to expand services to Maxwell Air Force Base members and their families in our community.”
Dr. Ross will serve as an honorary commander to Col. Mentzer. Ross said Alabama State University is committed to seeking ways to positively impact the community, and the honorary commander’s program provides a promising avenue for meaningful service.