Team McChord inducted 18 new local area community leaders into its Honorary Commander program during an induction ceremony in Hangar 9 on McChord Field Nov. 2.

This induction ceremony marked a new beginning for the Honorary Commander program on McChord.  Starting with this new group of Honorary Commanders, the program will be known as the Team McChord Honorary Commander Program, and the 62nd Airlift Wing, as the host unit, will administer all of the individual programs.

During the ceremony, Col. Scovill Currin, 62nd Airlift Wing commander, addressed the audience of more than 100 and said that when he first drove through the gates of McChord, he knew there was something special about this place.

"One of my goals for this program is when you come visit us and you spend time with us that you quickly realize how special it is as well," he said.

As he thanked the community for welcoming McChord airmen into their region, he said, "What I'm really looking forward to is you getting to know our airmen and understanding and appreciating their stories. These are some special young men and women."

The event included a C-17 Globemaster III static display as well as a rendition of the National Anthem by the Voices of McChord, a variation of the passing of the guidon, the presentation of a certificate and unit memorabilia, and concluded with the singing of the Air Force Song.

The new Honorary Commanders include a wide cross-section of the local community including members of business, academia, sports and medicine.

The Honorary Commander program establishes and maintains relationships with key community leaders. It educates them about the units and missions on McChord Field and makes members of the local community feel part of Team McChord.

Honorary Commanders serve a voluntary two-year term and then transition to alumni status, which allows them to maintain a connection with Team McChord.

During the ceremony, previous Honorary Commanders with the 62nd Airlift Wing transitioned into a newly created alumni status and were thanked for their contributions during their active time. As alumni, they will continue to be part of 62nd Airlift Wing events.

The new Team McChord Honorary Commanders are partnered with units in the 62nd Airlift Wing, 446th Airlift Wing, 627th Airbase Group, 361st Recruiting Squadron, Western Air Defense Sector, 1st Air Support Operations Group, and the 5th Air Support Operations Squadron.