The goal in that sense is for the program to be a joint learning venture. It not only gives Gulf Coast community and corporate leaders the chance to learn more about Air Force personnel, programs and operations, but also affords military commanders an opportunity to learn more about the people and the inner workings of their local community. At the ceremony, each Honorary Commander was presented with a certificate, a 403rd Wing coin and a scarf emblazoned with patches of the 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron 'Hurricane Hunters' and the 815th Airlift Squadron 'Flying Jennies,' both of which are assigned to the 403rd Wing. Ten representatives from various local community establishments and businesses were welcomed into the program as Honorary Commanders at an induction ceremony held June 27 during the 403rd Wing's Unit Training Assembly. Now the Citizen Airmen of the 403rd Wing and the Airmen of the 81st Training Wing have taken the relationship to a new level through the creation of Keesler's first Honorary Commanders Program. Reservists at Keesler Air Force Base and their active duty counterparts have both played their parts over the years in forging a longstanding relationship with the Mississippi Gulf Coast community.
