An official website of the United States government
A .mil website belongs to an official U.S. Department of Defense organization in the United States.
A lock (lock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .mil website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

Shaw welcomes new honorary commanders

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Jensen Stidham
  • 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. --  The 20th Fighter Wing held an honorary commander change of command ceremony at the Carolina Skies Club and Conference Center here, Nov. 13.

The purpose of the Air Force honorary commander program is to increase public awareness and understanding of the Air Force mission, policies, and programs to build stronger relationships within the local community.

"If I were to sum up my goal for the program, it's that we are trying to broaden a network of friendships for the sake of mutually beneficial progress," said Col. Stephen Jost, 20th FW commander.

During the ceremony, 20 individuals were recognized as new honorary commanders for the 20th FW and Ninth Air Force.

"We need you by our side, in the community, to help tell our story," said Jost. "There's nothing that warms my heart more than knowing that after my Airmen put in a long, hard day and they go home and they go out into the community that they are well cared for and well supported."

Each group and squadron commander took the stage in front of more than 100 attendees to say farewell to their old honorary commander and welcome their new.

"It's an honor to become a new honorary commander," said Melissa Linville, 20th Medical Support Squadron honorary commander and Covenant Place director of sales and marketing. "I'm excited to learn more about how the base functions and to get involved in the upcoming events to show Airmen appreciation."

During the ceremony, Jost gave his appreciation for the outbound honorary commanders.

"I can't thank you enough for what you have done for the program and what you have done for the base," said Jost. "Your participation has been so important."

The evening ended with a dinner buffet and conversations between Team Shaw leaders and members of the Sumter community.

Article Display

Shaw welcomes new honorary commanders

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Jensen Stidham
  • 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. --  The 20th Fighter Wing held an honorary commander change of command ceremony at the Carolina Skies Club and Conference Center here, Nov. 13.

The purpose of the Air Force honorary commander program is to increase public awareness and understanding of the Air Force mission, policies, and programs to build stronger relationships within the local community.

"If I were to sum up my goal for the program, it's that we are trying to broaden a network of friendships for the sake of mutually beneficial progress," said Col. Stephen Jost, 20th FW commander.

During the ceremony, 20 individuals were recognized as new honorary commanders for the 20th FW and Ninth Air Force.

"We need you by our side, in the community, to help tell our story," said Jost. "There's nothing that warms my heart more than knowing that after my Airmen put in a long, hard day and they go home and they go out into the community that they are well cared for and well supported."

Each group and squadron commander took the stage in front of more than 100 attendees to say farewell to their old honorary commander and welcome their new.

"It's an honor to become a new honorary commander," said Melissa Linville, 20th Medical Support Squadron honorary commander and Covenant Place director of sales and marketing. "I'm excited to learn more about how the base functions and to get involved in the upcoming events to show Airmen appreciation."

During the ceremony, Jost gave his appreciation for the outbound honorary commanders.

"I can't thank you enough for what you have done for the program and what you have done for the base," said Jost. "Your participation has been so important."

The evening ended with a dinner buffet and conversations between Team Shaw leaders and members of the Sumter community.