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Honorary commanders learn about Alamo Wing medical mission

  • Published
  • By Capt. Philip Cortez
  • 433rd Public Affairs
JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-Lackland --  Serving the community can consist of volunteering at the local food bank, participating in a neighborhood cleanup, or serving as an honorary commander for the 433rd Airlift Wing at JBSA. This week the "Alamo Wing" hosted 12 honorary commanders for a briefing and tour of the 433rd Medical Group.

Col. Jeffrey Pennington, 433rd AW commander, understands the importance of the honorary commanders program to the overall mission of the Air Force.

"Having each of you as ambassadors of the wing is critical in helping educate the local community of our mission," stated Pennington. "The story of the work being done by 433rd AW members can only be told be those who witness and experience it."

The program at the 433rd AW was established to give local members of the community the opportunity to visit with various units in the wing and to experience a day in the life of an Airman. Serving requires a time commitment from the individual and a willingness to learn about the mission of various units. This experience can provide an individual with a lifetime of memories and a greater appreciation of the men and women who put on the uniform.

Gomer Custer, a second-year honorary commander, was excited about the day's planned activities.

"It's a wonderful opportunity and terrific fun," Custer said. "I realize the value of the program to the wing in terms of getting the community involved and to inform others on how well the 433rd AW conducts its mission."

Col. William Blanchette, 433rd MG commander spoke of the goals and objectives of the unit.

"Our goal is to work toward consolidating all medical groups under one umbrella campus of buildings which will improve the work environment," Blanchette said as he made his way through the briefing. Various honorary commanders, including Mark Frye, asked Blanchette detailed questions in order to gain a better understanding of the mission of the group.

"This program gives community members the opportunity to appreciate not only the great accomplishments but also the great individuals," Frye stated. "As such we can better advocate on behalf of the 433rd AW and the Air Force Reserve."