Community supporters enter 80th FTW Hall of Fame

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Adawn Kelsey
  • 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs
SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  Tom Whaylen, Sheppard Military Affairs Committee president, and his wife Judy were inducted into the 80th Flying Training Wing Hall of Fame by Col. Kevin Schneider, 80 FTW commander May 13. A photograph of the couple and a description of their efforts with Sheppard was hung in the hall of the 80 FTW headquarters building.

The Sheppard Hall of Fame was created in 1993 to show appreciation for individuals in the local community who have worked hard and supported the base mission.

Col. Kevin Schneider said it is the 80 FTW commander's decision to induct someone into the hall of fame and the wall is reserved for those who go above and beyond in the local community who truly support the mission.

"Tom and Judy Whaylen have been passionate supporters of the 80 FTW and the Euro-NATO Joint Jet Pilot Training program since Mr. Whaylen's election as president and chief executive officer of the Sheppard Military Affairs Committee in 2007," the colonel said. "Their efforts have helped showcase our flying program while promoting and demonstrating symbiotic relationships between the international military and local community."

Colonel Schneider said Mr. Whaylen has had a huge impact and contributed greatly to the needs of the ENJJPT program.

"(Mr. Whaylen's) keen understanding of military needs and civilian organization support resulted in and aided immeasurably in breaking ground for the new operations complex building, bringing ENJJPT facilities into the 21st century," he said. "Tom and Judy's exceptional attention to detail and understanding of key military issues ensured marvelous success of the 61st Steering Committee and the 2011 Air Education and Training Command senior leaders conference held here."

Colonel Schneider said it is important to show country sponsors and community leaders how the community supports the base.

"These are our advocates who get our message across," he said. "The Whaylens' dedication continues to contribute to the community of military members of the local area ensuring the ally Air Forces leadership and elected officials understand the key role that ENJJPT serves in providing combat airpower to ultimately defend freedom across the globe."

Retired Air Force Colonel Mr. Whaylen said his support stems from the patriotism he has for his country and the 28 years he served in the Air Force.

"We need a strong military and Sheppard provides that training for Airmen, both on the ground and in the air," Mr. Whaylen said. "Airmen need a good strong start to their career and Sheppard provides that for them too."

Mr. Whaylen said he likes the culture Team Sheppard brings into the community.

"Where else can you go in a community that has international influences," he said. "The nations hold cultural events that are unique and broaden the understanding of those cultures for the base and the community."

Mr. Whaylen said it was a great honor to be inducted by Colonel Schneider into the 80 FTW Hall of Fame.