The “Honorary Squadron Commanders” programme aims to create and strengthen relationships between the local community and the United States community. Just like their predecessors, the ten new honorary commanders will serve for approximately 2 years, during which time, by interacting with their assigned squadron, they will seek to ensure the integration of the US community into the local area while simultaneously acting as witnesses to the lives of US personnel on the Base.
Indeed, by allowing the Honorary Commanders to live side-by-side with the women and men of the 31st Fighter Wing and share moments of socialisation and learning with them, the aim is to disseminate the best that both communities have to offer, promoting the exchange of ideas, traditions, and experiences through cultural, sporting, or artistic events.
In Aviano, the programme began in 1997 with the appointment of the first 5 honorary Commanders by the then Commander of the 31st FW, General Charles Wald, and was subsequently extended to all squadrons of the Wing.
Once the mandate is complete, it is possible to join the Association of Honorary Commanders, established on 12 December 2001, in the wake of the tragic events of 11 September, with the aim of keeping alive and strengthening the bond of friendship,
The Association organises cultural and recreational events and meetings, both inside and outside the airport. In its over 10 years of existence, the Association has promoted and carried out various relationship-building events, including Italo-American Friendship Festivals, charity activities, and many other cultural events which have also involved the Aviano Airport Command.
