JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-LACKLAND, Texas –
The 433rd Airlift Wing inducted eight new honorary commanders during an induction ceremony June 7, 2025.
During the ceremony, honorary commanders received an Air Force commander’s insignia pin from their assigned unit commander.
Each honorary commander was paired with leaders within the wing to learn about the various missions of the 433rd Airlift Wing.
The honorary commander program fosters a supportive relationship with the community by increasing military involvement in civic endeavors and making local members part of the Alamo Wing family.
The honorary commanders will have opportunities to learn about their units and commanders through C-5M Super Galaxy tours, demonstrations, and events.
Col. Brenden Bartholomew, 433rd Airlift Wing deputy commander, presided over the ceremony. He commented on the importance of military personnel and civic leaders integrating as one.
“San Antonio has earned its title as ‘Military City USA’ through exceptional military-community integration,” Bartholomew said. “Engaging with our host city is vital — it fosters bonds and allows the community to understand our mission and strengthen our partnership.”
The 2025 honorary commanders inducted included:
- Rudy Khalaf, Bexar County division chief of fire protection - 26th Aerial Port Squadron
- Vanessa J. Douglas, Masters Leadership Program San Antonio board of directors - 68th Airlift Squadron
- Morgan Harrison, Alpha Media director of sales - 433rd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron
- Duane Paulson, Independent Consulting Firm - 433rd Contingency Response Flight
- Jay Gilmore, SWBC Mortgage Company senior loan officer - 433rd Logistics Readiness Squadron
- Mike Kurczek, retired critical care anesthesiologist - 433rd Medical Squadron
- Michele Hoskins, Reaching Maximum Independence president - 356th Airlift Squadron
- Paul Hoskins, H2Launch SA owner- 74th Aerial Port Squadron