Gulf Coast citizens unlock mystery of Keesler

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Brent Skeen
  • 403rd Wing Public Affairs
In an Air Force community it's common to see local citizens support their nation's military. But to many, the components that make the mission a success are unknown.

"I think there are a lot of folks out there that, like me, knowing what is behind the gates is this big mystery," said Michelle Rogers.

For the marketing director of the Edgewater Mall that is all about to change. Rogers and 13 other Gulf Coast civic leaders became the 403rd Wing's newest Honorary Commanders during an induction ceremony and luncheon held in their honor Aug. 6.

"This kind of helps open our eyes and see," said Rogers, Honorary Commander for the 403rd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron. "It's like we're getting a firsthand look at what you guys (Reservists) see every day."

The Honorary Commander program, adopted by the 403rd Wing in 2009, serves as a bridge between base and community leaders of the Gulf Coast and will solve the mystery Rogers spoke of.

"Having the Honorary Commanders involved with the units we have here will help bring some understanding (of what we do)," said Col. Jay Jensen, 403rd Wing commander. "This program has blossomed into some fantastic and amazing relationships, and has drawn us closer into the community as a whole."

The 81st Training Wing is also involved in the Honorary Commander program and both Wings collaborate on many events for the members to participate in throughout the year.

"It's really rewarding to see the community support that exists here on the Gulf Coast," said Brig. Gen. Andrew Muller, 81st TRW commander. "(It is) an opportunity to give back to the community for what they do for us here at Keesler Air Force Base."

The partnership between the 403rd and 81st provides the Honorary Commanders with the unique experience of learning about the Active Duty and Reserve missions.
John Miller grew up along the Gulf Coast and admits he never really understood what occurred at Keesler until he became an Honorary Commander with the 81st Security Forces Squadron two years ago.

As the City of Biloxi police chief he was excited about learning the differences and similarities between Air Force Security Forces and civilian police departments. "I thought there would be some vast differences, but there's really not," said Miller. "Cops are cops."

Following the successful completion of his term with the 81st SFS, he was invited to be an Honorary Commander with the 403rd SFS and is the first participant to be a part of both Team Keesler missions.

"With the 81st I was able to see a lot of the things they do and things I would have never have thought of," said Miller. "When I had the offer from the 403rd I thought this would be great because I would be able to get to see another aspect of what Keesler does."

All in all, the community leaders bestowed with the title of Honorary Commander are looking forward to their two-year term.

"It's awesome," said Henry Toncrey, Ward 2 City Councilman for D'Iberville and Honorary Commander for the 403rd Mission Support Group. "It's a way for me to give back to the military and to Keesler. I consider it a great honor."