Beale welcomes honorary commanders

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Brenda Davis
  • 9th Reconnaissance Wing Public Affairs
BEALE AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  Beale Air Force Base hosted 22 local business and civic leaders for a base tour Sept. 22 as part of the base's honorary commander program.

The honorary commander program pairs civic leaders with Air Force commanders at Beale to foster a better working relationship between the base and neighboring communities.

"We are very proud of the community we live in, and we hope that you, as honorary commanders, are even prouder after learning about some of our roles," said Col. Doug Lee, 9th Reconnaissance Wing commander.

During their tour, the honorary commanders enjoyed a meal at the Contrails Dining Facility and viewed static displays of U-2 Dragon Lady, RQ-4 Global Hawk and MC-12 aircraft.  Later, they visited the air traffic control tower and fire department and learned how they cooperate with local agencies during emergencies.

The tour also included a stop to the 9th Physiological Support Squadron where Airmen demonstrated the altitude chamber and the full pressure suits of U-2 pilots.

"It was amazing to see these young men and women with so much expertise," said John Peace, 99th Reconnaissance Squadron honorary commander.  "It was a great presentation."

The honorary commanders were even treated to a display of how the 9th Security Forces Squadron trains military working dogs to defend the base.

"I have been on many tours since I retired in 1987," said Darlene Hart, 9th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron honorary commander.  "I can honestly say this was the best tour I have ever been on."

The last stop of the tour was a reception at Lee's home where they joined military commanders and spouses for refreshments and socializing. 

"As leaders you help tell the stories of our military," Lee said.  "Our connections with the community are vital to the success of our mission at this base."