Kirtland Air Force Base Honorary Commander Program

 

Building Stronger Military-Community Partnerships

The Kirtland Air Force Base Honorary Commander Program is a unique partnership between Team Kirtland and community leaders across central New Mexico. The program fosters meaningful relationships, increases understanding of Kirtland's diverse missions, and creates opportunities for military and community leaders to learn from one another.

While Honorary Commanders gain firsthand insight into the people, missions, and capabilities that support national defense, the program is equally designed to strengthen Kirtland's connection to the communities it serves. Honorary Commanders serve as a bridge between the installation and the community, helping military leaders better understand local priorities, challenges, opportunities, and perspectives.

This reciprocal relationship allows community leaders to bring Kirtland further into the community while helping Team Kirtland remain an engaged and valued community partner.

Through mission immersions, community engagement opportunities, and direct interaction with military leadership, Honorary Commanders help foster collaboration, communication, and mutual understanding between Kirtland Air Force Base and the communities of Bernalillo, Sandoval, Torrance, and Valencia counties, the East Mountain communities, and the greater Albuquerque metropolitan area.

2024 Honorary Commander Induction

What does an Honorary Commander do?

Honorary Commanders are paired with Wing, Group, or Squadron commanders and serve as trusted community partners throughout a three-year term.
Participants:
  • Learn about Kirtland's missions, people, and strategic importance through quarterly mission partner immersions and installation engagements.
  • Share community perspectives, priorities, and opportunities with military leadership.
  • Help connect Team Kirtland with community organizations, businesses, educational institutions, and civic partners.
  • Serve as ambassadors for both Kirtland Air Force Base and the communities they represent.
  • Strengthen relationships that support the long-term success of both the installation and the region.
The most successful Honorary Commanders are active participants who seek opportunities to engage both on and off the installation, creating meaningful connections between military and civilian communities.
  • Program Timeline
  • Participation Expectations
  • Installation Access Requirements
  • Waitlist Process
  • Relocation and Professional Changes
  • Program Standards
  • Legal and Ethical Guidelines