Arnold Air Force Base is once again opening the door for local community leaders to get a behind-the-scenes look at one of the region’s most important military installations.
The base is now accepting nominations for the Arnold AFB Honorary Commander Program, a two-year initiative designed to connect civic and business leaders with the mission, personnel, and operations of Arnold Air Force Base and the Arnold Engineering Development Complex.
The goal of the program is simple: build stronger relationships between the base and the communities that support it while giving participants a firsthand understanding of the work being done at Arnold.
Seven honorary commanders will be selected for the upcoming class. Those chosen will participate in six base-wide events over the next two years, including tours, briefings, and direct interaction with Airmen, civilian employees, and various test divisions across the base.
Jason Austin, chief of AEDC Public Affairs, said Arnold already enjoys tremendous support throughout the surrounding communities, but the program helps deepen that connection even further.
“We hope they will take what they have gleaned through participation in the program and share it with folks in their community to further bolster local engagement,” Austin said.
Outgoing honorary commander Scott Ladd, owner of Patriot Construction and Consulting, said the experience was more impactful than he originally expected.
“This experience has exceeded my expectations in terms of engagement, learning and community connection,” Ladd said.
Base officials say nominees should generally be individuals who are not already deeply familiar with military operations, as the program is intended to educate and inform community members about the Department of Defense and Arnold’s role in national security and aerospace testing.
The nomination deadline is May 29.
Anyone interested in receiving a nomination form can contact the AEDC Public Affairs Office at arnold.aedc.pa@us.af.mil or by phone at 931-454-4204.
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