TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- An induction ceremony was held Jan. 6 for 42 honorary commanders at the Delta Breeze Club here.
The honorary commander program exists not only to strengthen ties between Travis and the local community, but also for key members in the community and leaders in the Air Force to mutually benefit each other.
Each squadron commander has the opportunity to designate an honorary commander to participate in the squadron and base functions.
The role of the honorary commander is to share their experience with the community and invite Travis to participate in community events to create a culture of understanding and cultivate camaraderie for both parties.
Col. Robert Eatman, 60th Mission Support Group commander, said he felt that Scott Farmer had the right mindset, commitment and military support necessary to take on the responsibilities of honorary commander for his squadron.
"Scott Farmer is a huge supporter of the military," Eatman said. "I am honored to have him as an honorary commander and a friend."
Farmer was more than happy to accept the invitation and duties as honorary commander.
"Being inducted as honorary commander has renewed my faith in America," Farmer said. "It has given me incentive to pay all my taxes because I see how well spent that money is at Travis Air Force Base."
Before the new honorary commanders were pinned on by their respective commanders, certificates were presented to the honorary commanders who had completed their two year tenure.
Honorary commanders who have completed their tenure have the opportunity to join the alumni program where they can continue to exchange ideas, experiences and friendships with Travis.
After the pinning of the new honorary commanders, an oath was recited by all 42 key members of the community to officially bring them into the Travis family.
The ceremony ended with a speech from Col. Dwight Sones, 60th Air Mobility Wing commander, inviting all 130 honorary commanders on Travis to join in the esprit de corps and heritage the base can offer them.
"Military members lean so close to the mirror that they can't see the whole image of how important they are," Farmer said.
As honorary commanders, we can help service members see how great they are, he said.