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Honorary Commander Program
 

The intent of the 316th Wing Honorary Commander (HC) Program is to engage, educate, and empower local, regional, and national community leaders to be unofficial spokespersons for the Department of the Air Force, Airmen, Space professionals, and their families. Known as "America’s Airfield," Joint Base Andrews pairs leadership with community members to bridge the gap between the military and the local community.

What to Expect

The program is designed to provide a "rotating cohort" experience, ensuring Honorary Commanders gain a comprehensive understanding of both operational and support missions across the base. Participants are paired with specific commanders and invited to participate in unit ceremonies, briefings, and quarterly base-wide engagements.

Benefits

  • Mission Awareness: Gain deep insight into the 316th Wing, its mission partners, and the joint missions hosted at JBA.

  • Networking: Build long-term partnerships with military commanders and other influential civic leaders.

  • Engagement: Participate in exclusive tours, such as of the 1st Helicopter Squadron (1HS) or the 89th Airlift Wing.

  • Recognition: Features in the Public Affairs monthly recognition program highlighting successful HC/CC partnerships.

Term Length & Structure

The 316th Wing utilizes a 3-year term (with a potential 4-year option for Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling pairings).

  • Yearly Rotations: To keep participants engaged and diversify their experience, HCs may rotate between different Groups and Mission Partners annually.

  • Cohort Size: Each cohort consists of approximately 15 members.

  • Diversity of Pairing: HCs may be assigned to units across the Mission Support Group (MSG), Wing Staff Agency (WSA), Security Forces Group (SFG), Operations Group (OG), and various tenant wings like the 89 AW, 113 WG, and 459 ARW.

Commitment

  • Participation: Honorary Commanders are expected to attend at least one event per quarter to maintain program consistency.

  • Events: Key milestones include the March Induction Ceremony and scheduled tours throughout the year (May, October, and January).

  • Communication: HCs work closely with Public Affairs (PA) and the Commander’s Action Group (CAG) to coordinate expectations and arrivals.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Must be a leader in local, regional, or national community affairs.

  • Must be willing to devote time to educate the public on Air Force initiatives.

  • Cannot be in a position that creates a conflict of interest; certain legacy positions (e.g., Fire Chiefs, Judges) may rotate into the program as needed.

How to Apply

Interested community leaders can apply through the official application link on the Joint Base Andrews website. The 316th Wing Public Affairs office manages recruitment with an emphasis on finding the "right people" to advocate for our Airmen.

Contact Information: 316th Wing Public Affairs Joint Base Andrews, MD

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