Squadron Adopter program inducts new honorary commanders

  • Published
  • By Victoria Brayton
  • 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs
SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  More than 100 Sheppard commanders and representatives from downtown businesses attended the Squadron Adopter's Induction Ceremony June 20 at the Heritage Center.

The program pairs a local organization with a squadron, group or wing on base to further develop and maintain good relations between Sheppard and the community.

Brig. Gen. Richard Devereaux, 82nd Training Wing commander, welcomed the guests sitting under canopies outside on the patio, expressing his gratitude for all those involved in the program, which began in the 1950's.

"What a great way to formalize the great relationship between Sheppard and the community," he said, adding that there are good connections now at every level on base.
After his introductory remarks, General Devereaux presented each pair with a certificate proclaiming the partnership and naming the downtown representatives "honorary commanders."

Some matches have enjoyed many years in partnership while others had just met for the first time.

Ronny Cartwright, president of the Wichita County Mounted Patrol, said he has been an adopter for more than 30 years.

"I think it's important. It establishes that necessary core to maintain that relationship," he said of the program.

His adoptee, Lt. Col. Craig Rice, commander of the 381st Training Squadron, agreed and emphasized how easy the transition was for him as the new commander to continue the relationship his squadron had already established with Mr. Cartwright.

"This area has a real positive view of the military," Colonel Rice said.

General Devereaux encouraged contact between the units and their adopters throughout the year. Some wasted no time in meeting that request.

Mr. Cartwright invited the 381st TRS out to their rodeo and Colonel Rice returned the favor, inviting Mr. Cartwright to his change of command ceremony and their upcoming squadron picnic.

The new adopters are optimistic about developing such bonds as well.

Debra Malone, general manager of The Wichita Club and adopter of the 82nd Training Wing Director of Staff, said she thought the induction ceremony was a great experience and remarked on how the base "provides such tremendous support for us as individuals and as a community."

Another veteran adoptee, Lt. Col. Thomas Ventriglia, commander of the 363rd TRS said the ceremony was a chance for him to reunite with his partner, Domino's Pizza. He described the relationship as a "partnership benefiting not only the community but also our Airmen."

In addition to the ceremony, guests enjoyed buffet-styled treats as well as a windshield tour of the base.