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New Ellsworth Honorary Commanders announced

  • Published
  • By 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
  • 28th Bomb Wing

Col. Derek Oakley, 28th Bomb Wing commander, formally welcomed the individuals selected for the program designed to foster positive relationships between Ellsworth leaders and their neighbors throughout the Black Hills.

“To all of the incoming honorary commanders, welcome to the Raider family,” Oakley said. “You will quickly see and learn there is a lot happening here. I encourage you to make the most of your time in the program.”

Individuals selected for the program this year include:

  • Dr. Brad Archer, Monument Health
  • John Cass, United Way of the Black Hills
  • Chief Bob Connell, Box Elder Police Department
  • Kara Flynn, Children’s Home Society
  • Richard Hinseth, Hinseth Financial Advisory
  • Timothy Houghton, H-S Precision
  • Chris Karn, Bluepeak
  • Rachel Nelson, Elevate Rapid City
  • Kevin MacRitchie, Tactical Rehabilitation
  • Henry Repeta, Arrowhead Country Club
  • Lance Roberts, South Dakota School of Mines & Technology
  • Jackie Welbig-Stenson, Box Elder Board of Directors

Area business and community leaders apply for the program by contacting the 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs office. Nominations are compiled, reviewed and submitted to the wing commander for consideration annually. If selected, individuals are paired with a designated unit commander at the squadron, group, or wing level for a single two-year term to develop a better understanding of the base and its mission.

Participants are routinely from small and large businesses, local city officials, chamber of commerce members, school staff, chamber of commerce members and others who, because of their position or influence in the community, have a lasting impact on public support for the base.

All outgoing honorary commanders were also recognized for their participation in the program and were presented plaques provided by the South Dakota Air & Space Foundation. Colonel Oakley lauded the time, support and dedication each had given to the program and hoped the relationships they forged with the base continued into the future.

For more information about the Ellsworth Honorary Commanders program, contact the 28th BW Public Affairs office at 28bw.public.affairs@us.af.mil.