Wing to induct honorary commanders Dec. 2

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Tim Taylor
  • 302nd Airlift Wing
PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. (AFRC) --  The 302nd Airlift Wing is making a historical step in its relationship with the Colorado Springs community. On Dec. 2, the wing will induct its first group of honorary commanders.

The 302nd AW Honorary Commanders Program is being spearheaded by Col. James J. Muscatell Jr., 302nd AW commander. The colonel started a similar group while in charge of the 934th AW, Minneapolis-St. Paul Air Reserve Station, Minn.

Given the number of military assets in Colorado Springs, forging relationships with community leaders can be more difficult, but the colonel is undaunted in his effort.
"Community leaders in the Colorado Springs area have always been supportive of the 302nd," said Colonel Muscatell. "Despite the large military presence in the community, I believe there are still numerous untapped resources out there willing to support the Air Force Reserve. We, as a unit, have to make a concerted effort to reach out and draw them in."

"I think anytime the local community can assist our military personnel we learn from each other," said Melodie Owens, Antlers Hilton catering sales manager and soon-to-be 302nd Services Flight honorary commander. "This also provides an additional resource for the Reserve if they or their personnel have a special need within the community.
"I am thrilled to become an honorary commander. This is an opportunity for me to assist our military personnel. I grew up on an Air Force base although my father spent 23 years in the Army. It was always important to my father to volunteer and to contribute to the lives of our military personnel in any way. My reason is personal, it is a family commitment to honor my father's legacy."

Honorary commanders will serve a one-year term in support of the missions, people, challenges, triumphs and day-to-day operations of 302nd groups, squadrons and flights. The wing has 22 commanders and hopefully each will share a similar interest or profession with their honorary commander.

Units are expected to offer honorary commanders an opportunity to take part in such events like changes of command, promotion/retirement ceremonies, commanders' calls, holiday celebrations and training opportunities.

The expectation is for the honorary commander to similarly immerse his/her commander and host unit in his/her activities. Honorary commanders will meet quarterly with the wing commander to "touch-base" and discuss local issues.

"My expectation is to hopefully be their first point of resource for any community needs the 302nd Services Flight or personnel may have," said Ms. Owens. "I am hoping to have a better understanding of how they operate and all that they do for our country. Additionally, we both can be ambassadors of the military and the Colorado Springs community."

"It's an honor for the 302nd to have community leaders involved with us and supporting us," said Colonel Muscatell. "I hope it is an honor for them as well."