Civilians meet the Air Force world during orientation flight

  • Published
  • By Susan E. Walls
  • 436th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. --  Representatives from Delaware law enforcement, education, business, medical and political arenas got a birds-eye view of an air-refueling mission May 17, when they took part in a C-5 Galaxy orientation flight as the new honorary commanders for the 436th and 512th Airlift Wings.

The day began with the flight mission and weather briefings at the 9th Airlift Squadron. Lt. Col. Darren James, 9th AS commander, then cleared the civilian commanders for their four-hour mission.

The dual air-refueling mission partnered a Dover Air Force Base C-5 with two KC-10 Extenders from the 305th and the 514th Air Mobility Wings, McGuire AFB, N.J.

Dr. Ed McConnell, 436th Medical Group honorary commander, was selected to ride up front with the pilots for take-off and said the experience was something he'll never forget.

"I was in total amazement with the knowledge and complete expertise of our pilots and crew, said Dr. McConnell. "Watching them go through their checklists and knowing everything about the huge C-5 was unbelievable. The flight was a fantastic experience."
The unique opportunity for military and civilian leaders to join forces and learn about their equivalent career fields began more than 15 years ago.

Since 1992, more than 500 community leaders have participated in the Honorary Commanders Program and have flown in Dover's C-5s over the years. Dover was the first base in Air Mobility Command to start the program.

The program's goal is simple - match two professionals, one military and one civilian, together to learn about each other's profession. It's also a commitment from both sides to devote the time and attention into fostering a sense of community and understanding and maybe even lasting friendships.

The program has been a resounding success from its inception. Honorary commanders are people from the local business, education, medical, finance and political communities.

The program also allows an opportunity for an endless exchange of information and interaction between the two commanders - as much as each half of the partnership can give.

Milt Warren, President of DelMarVa Two-Way Radio and 512th Aerospace Medicine Squadron honorary commander, was glad to be part of the flight this year.

"I couldn't believe how close the C-5 got to the KC-10 - I was totally amazed and equally impressed with the skills our crew had to complete the air-refueling process," he said. "It was a huge thrill for me to be part of this unique experience."

Some of the greatest accolades for the program come from Col. Steven B. Harrison, 436th Airlift Wing commander.

"Dover Air Force Base and the Dover area community enjoy some of the best relationships between the military and local people of anywhere that I have seen," said the colonel. "Our honorary commanders help us educate the rest of the community about Dover Air Force Base and our global airlift mission - it's really a win-win situation."