931st welcomes honorary commanders with luncheon

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Brannen Parrish
  • 931st ARG Public Affairs
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. --  The 931st Air Refueling Group welcomed a new batch of honorary commanders to its ranks during a luncheon, Nov. 5.

Seven honorary commanders broke bread with 931st ARG leaders and later visited the installation for a mission brief and an opportunity to meet with the Airmen of their assigned unit.

After the luncheon, 931st ARG commanders and designated representatives presented their honorary commander with a command pin symbolizing their induction into the 931st ARG family.

Col. William H. Mason, Commander, 931st ARG reiterated the value of the Honorary Commander program and the importance of building relationships between Kansas' only Air Force Reserve unit and local business and civic leaders in the Wichita area.

"We are going to try to make this program something special," Mason told the assembly. "One of the major goals of this program is educating you on who we are as a Reserve force. "


The Honorary Commander program fosters a strong link between installation senior leadership and civilian supporters in the local community, develops civic appreciation of the need for and value of the Air Force and Air Force Reserve, showcases the vital role of the Air Force.

Ty Lasher, City Manager of Bel Aire, Kansas is one of the newest members of the program. Lasher, who is the honorary commander to the 931st ARG senior enlisted leader, Chief Master Sgt. Sean Martin, said he is excited about the opportunity to learn more about McConnell Air Force Base.

"I've never served in the military before, but obviously, I have a great deal of respect for those who serve in the military," said Lasher. "This program provides a great opportunity to learn more about the base. I didn't realize there are so many pieces to McConnell Air Force Base. I didn't realize there is an Air National Guard unit at the base. I'm very excited about the opportunity."