Mr. Joe W. Scallorns (Joe)

Mr. Scallorns is an Air Force Civic Leader from California, Missouri.  He is an active supporter of Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo., and has served in various positions with several support organizations, including President of the Whiteman Base Community Council.  He currently serves on the Boards of Whiteman Area Leadership Council, Whiteman Base Community Council and on the Civic Leaders Group of Air Force Global Strike Command.  He is also serving as President of the Strategic Deterrent Coalition.

Mr. Scallorns is a retired community banker with over thirty years experience.  He has served on the Boards of Directors of several banks, insurance companies, and other businesses.  He also continues to serve on the Boards of numerous not-for-profit, community development and charitable organizations.

Joe is a graduate of the University of MO, Columbia, MO and The Stonier Graduate School of Banking, Rutgers-The State University, New Brunswick, NJ.

MAJOR AWARDS AND RECOGNITION

USAF Distinguished Public Service Award

USAF Scroll of Appreciation

Honorary Chief Master Sergeant, WAFB

Jefferson Club, University of Missouri

President’s Society, University of Central Missouri

CIVIC AND PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATION MEMBERSHIP

Rotary Club, National Association of Corporate Directors, American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Air Force Association, Missouri Bankers Association, American Bankers Association

 

Squadron Liaison: Lieutenant Colonel Michal P. Polidor, 13th Bomb Squadron Commander

Lt Col Michal P. Polidor is the commander the 13th Bomb Squadron, Whiteman AFB, Missouri. He is responsible for the only B-2A formal training unit which provides the 509th Bomb Wing highly qualified mission ready pilots and instructors to support worldwide conventional and nuclear taskings.

Lt Col Polidor received his commission as a Distinguished Graduate of the United States Air Force Academy in 2004. Following graduation, he served in a variety of operational assignments to include duties as an F-15E, B-2A, and T-38A Instructor Pilot. In 2015, he was selected as an Olmsted Scholar to Kaohsiung, Taiwan where he earned a Master of Social Sciences degree in China and Asia Pacific Studies. Upon returning from overseas and prior to his current assignment, he served as the Inspector General for the 509th Bomb Wing.

Lt Col Polidor is a senior pilot with more than 2,100 flying hours, including 420 combat hours in Operation Enduring Freedom, and has also flown in support of Operation Noble Eagle.

EDUCATION
2004 Bachelor of Science Degree in Astronautical Engineering, United States Air Force Academy, CO
2010 Graduate of Squadron Officer School, Maxwell AFB, AL
2011 Master of Arts Degree in Aeronautical Science, Embry Riddle Aeronautical University, FL
2013 Air Command and Staff College, Maxwell AFB, AL (in correspondence)
2018 Master of Social Science Degree in China and Asia Pacific Studies, National Sun Yat-sen University, Taiwan

ASSIGNMENTS
1. August 2004 – December 2004, DA-20 Student Pilot, Introductory Flight Training, USAFA, CO
2. December 2004 – January 2006, T-37B & T-38C Student Pilot, Undergraduate Pilot Training, Vance AFB, OK
3. January 2006 – April 2006, T-38C Student Pilot, Introduction to Fighter Fundamentals, Moody AFB, GA
4. April 2006 – February 2007, F-15E Student Pilot, 333rd Fighter Squadron, Seymour Johnson AFB, NC
5. February 2007 – July 2010, F-15E Instructor Pilot, Chief of Scheduling, 335th Fighter Squadron, Seymour Johnson AFB, NC
6. July 2010 – July 2011, T-38A Pilot, Chief of Command Post, 509th Bomb Wing, Whiteman AFB, MO
7. July 2011 – January 2012, B-2A Student Pilot, 394th Combat Training Squadron, Whiteman AFB, MO
8. January 2012 – June 2015, B-2A and T-38A Instructor Pilot, Assistant Director of Operations, 13th Bomb Squadron, Whiteman, AFB MO
9. June 2015 – August 2018, Olmsted Scholar, Washington DC and Kaohsiung, Taiwan
10. August 2018 – May 2019, Inspector General, 509th Bomb Wing, Whiteman AFB, MO
11. May 2019 – Present, Commander, 13th Bomb Squadron, Whiteman AFB, MO

FLIGHT INFORMATION
Rating: Senior Pilot
Flight Hours: More than 2,100
Aircraft Flown: B-2A, F-15E, T-38A/C, T-37B

MAJOR AWARDS AND DECORATIONS
Distinguished Flying Cross
Meritorious Service Medal
Air Medal with 4 oak leaf clusters
Air Force Commendation Medal with 1 oak leaf cluster
Air Force Achievement Medal
Combat Readiness Medal
Nuclear Deterrence Operations Service Medal

OTHER ACHIEVEMENTS
2004 Distinguished Graduate, United States Air Force Academy
2006 Academic Excellence Award, Undergraduate Pilot Training
2011 Col James Jabara Award

EFFECTIVE DATES OF PROMOTION
Second Lieutenant 2 Jun 2004
First Lieutenant 2 Jun 2006
Captain 2 Jun 2008
Major 1 May 2014
Lieutenant Colonel 1 November 2017
(Current as of May 2020)

Mr. Christopher L. Rutter (Chris)

Mr. Rutter is a born and bred “Air Force Brat” and was actually born at Whiteman before spending time at Andersen AFB and Minot AFB. Following graduation from High School, he enlisted in the Army, and served as a Combat Infantryman with the 502^nd Infantry Regiment, 101^st Airborne Division (the “Screaming Eagles”) based out of Fort Campbell, Kentucky.  Chris deployed twice to Iraq with the 10st Airborne, from February 2003 to February 2004, and again from October 2005 to May 2006. After being wounded on a patrol, Chris returned stateside, and separated from the Army after almost 6-years on active duty.

Mr. Rutter is a loan officer at Hawthorn Bank in Clinton, where he and his wife (Heather) reside.  Their oldest daughter (Bailey) is a sophomore at the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) and their youngest daughter (Aubrey) is a third grader. He has served on the Clinton Rural Fire Protection Board, the Twin Lakes Hospice Board, and the Truman Lake Community Foundation Board. He is also a member of Elks Lodge 1034, Clinton VFW Post 1894, and American Legion Post 14.

Chris received his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Central Missouri, Warrensburg, MO and is currently working towards a Master of Business Administration (MBA) at Grantham University, Lenexa, KS.

CIVIC AND PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATION MEMBERSHIP
Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, American Legion, Veterans of Foreign War, 101^st Airborne Association, US Army Ranger Association, Missouri Bankers Association

(Current as of May 2021)

 

 

Squadron Liaison: Lieutenant Colonel Michael Nishimura, 509th Logistics Readiness Squadron Commander

LIEUTENANT COLONEL MICHAEL J. NISHIMURA

Lieutenant Colonel Michael J. Nishimura is the Commander of the 509th Logistics Readiness Squadron, Whiteman AFB, Missouri. He leads 328 military and civilian personnel providing logistics support for 20 B-2, 24 A-10, and 13 T-38 aircraft. In this capacity, he is responsible for the installation’s supply chain management and distribution systems. Specifically, he warehouses an $853 million supply account and supervises all base fuels operations as well as the maintenance of a 660-vehicle fleet. He is also responsible for all base surface and air transportation movements and the wing’s deployment process.

Lieutenant Colonel Nishimura entered the Air Force in 2003 through the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps program after receiving his undergraduate degree from Indiana University. He began his career as a Logistics Readiness Officer in Air Force Special Operations Command’s Regional Supply Squadron. Lieutenant Colonel Nishimura later served as the Installation Deployment Officer for the 1st Special Operations Wing. He has deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan while stationed at Hurlburt Field. Lieutenant Colonel Nishimura served as the Asia-Pacific Military Personnel Exchange Program’s Logistics Exchange Officer working foreign military sales issues in the Royal Thai Air Force’s Directorate of Logistics in Bangkok, Thailand. Afterwards, he became a Foreign Area Officer and worked in Pacific Air Force’s A5 International Affairs Division managing a country portfolio including Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Myanmar. Lieutenant Colonel Nishimura attended the Royal Thai Air Force’s Air Command and Staff College as the United States Air Force’s exchange student. During his previous assignment, Lieutenant Colonel Nishimura was the first ever Director of Operations for Defense Logistics Agency Aviation at Tinker AFB.
Lieutenant Colonel Nishimura is married and has three children.

EDUCATION:
2003 Bachelor of Arts degree in Telecommunications, Indiana University, Bloomington, Ind.
2004 Aerospace Basic Course (Residence), Maxwell Air Force Base, Ala.
2007 Master of Arts degree in International Relations, University of Oklahoma, Norman, Okla.
2009 Squadron Officer School (Correspondence), Maxwell Air Force Base, Ala.
2010 Associate of Arts degree in Thai, Defense Language Institute Foreign Language Center,
Monterey, Cal.
2010 Squadron Officer School (Residence),Maxwell Air Force Base, Ala.
2013 Distinguished Graduate, Command and Staff College (Correspondence),Marine Corps
Base Quantico, Virg.
2013 Air Command and Staff College (Correspondence), Maxwell Air Force Base, Ala.
2014 Certificate in Regional Security Studies, East & Southeast Asia, Naval Postgraduate
School, Monterey, Cal.
2018 Air Command and Staff College (Residence), Royal Thai Air Force, Don Muang AFB, Bangkok, Thailand
2020 Certificate of Readiness, Business Fundamentals, Harvard Business School, Boston, Mass.
2020 Air War College (Correspondence), Maxwell Air Force base, Ala.

ASSIGNMENTS:
Feb 2004 – Jan 2005, OIC, FixedWing/Ground SupportWeapons Systems, AFSOC Regional Supply Squadron, Hurlburt Field, Fla.
Jan 2005 – May 2006, OIC, Information, Applications & Analysis, AFSOC Regional Supply Squadron, Hurlburt Field, Fla.
May 2006 – Feb 2007, Flight Commander,Weapons Systems Flight, AFSOC Regional Supply Squadron, Hurlburt Field, Fla.
Feb 2007 – Jul 2007, OIC, Operations & Compliance, 1st Special Operations Logistics Readiness Squadron, Hurlburt Field, Fla.
Jul 2007 – May 2008, Flight Commander, Readiness Flight, 1st Special Operations Logistics Readiness Squadron, Hurlburt Field, Fla.
May 2008 – Jul 2009, Senior Operations Advisor, 5th Battalion, 3rd Brigade, 201st Regional Corps Advisory – Central, Camp Blackhorse, Afghanistan
Jul 2009 – Sep 2009, Flight Commander, Deployment and Distribution Flight, 1st Special Operations Logistics Readiness Squadron, Hurlburt Field, Fla.
Oct 2009 – Dec 2010, Thai Language Student, 314th Training Squadron, Defense Language Institute, Presidio of Monterey, Calif.
Dec 2010 – Mar 2014, United States/Royal Thai Air Force Logistics Exchange Officer, Royal Thai Air Force, Don Muang Air Base, Bangkok, Thailand
Mar 2014 – Jul 2014, Southeast Asia Regional Affairs Strategist, A5/8 International Affairs, Pacific Air Forces, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii
Jul 2014 – Mar 2015, Executive Officer to the Chief of Staff, Pacific Air Forces, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii
Mar 2015 – Apr 2017, Southeast Asia Country Director, A5/8 International Affairs, Pacific Air Forces, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii
Apr 2017 – Sep 2018, Student, Air Command and Staff College, Royal Thai Air Force, Don Muang Air Base, Bangkok, Thailand
Sep 2018 – May 2019, Director of Operations, Defense Logistics Agency Aviation at Oklahoma City, Tinker AFB, Okla.
Jun 2019 – Present, Commander, 509th Logistics Readiness Squadron, Whiteman AFB, Mo.

MAJOR AWARDS AND DECORATIONS:
Bronze Star Medal
Defense Meritorious Service Medal
Meritorious Service Medal with one oak leaf cluster
Air Force Commendation Medal with one oak leaf cluster
Air Force Achievement Medal
Air Force Combat Action Medal
Army Combat Action Badge
Royal Thai Air Force ACSC Gold Star (Foreign Decoration)

EFFECTIVE DATES OF PROMOTION:
Second Lieutenant December 19, 2003
First Lieutenant January 18, 2006
Captain January 18, 2008
Major February 1, 2014
Lieutenant Colonel December 12, 2018

(Current as of Sep 2020)

LIEUTENANT COLONEL TOMMY L. JEFFERSON II

 

 

 

First Lieutenant               Apr 10, 2009

Captain                           Apr 10, 2011

Major                              Feb 1, 2016

Lieutenant Colonel         Aug 1, 2019

(Current as of 25 June 2021)

 REV. MICHAEL POTTSCHMIDT

Michael Pottschmidt joined the ministry of St. Paul’s Church and School as Senior Pastor in February 2018. Prior to coming to St. Paul’s, he served as Associate Pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Richmond, Virginia from 2005 – 2009 and then as Trinity’s Senior Pastor from 2009 – 2018. Michael has served as a pastoral counselor of the Chesapeake District LWML and of the Old Dominion Zone. He has been a Rotary Club member and is a Past President of the Rotary Club of West Richmond. Michael is a graduate of Concordia College—Ann Arbor and Concordia Seminary, Saint Louis. He and his wife Vickie have two daughters, Evelyn Grace and Annika. Michael is currently serving on the board of the Whiteman Base Community Council, representing Concordia.

 

 

 

 

 

Squadron Liaison: Major Robby J. Gallegos, 509th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron Commander                   

Major Robby J. Gallegos is the Commander of the 509th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri. He leads Air Force Global Strike Command’s only B-2 aircraft maintenance squadron supporting six flying squadrons executing active duty and Air National Guard missions.  He leads 580 personnel and manages the fleet health and operations for 20 B-2A aircrafts worth more than $44 billion in supporting strategic nuclear deterrence and conventional missions worldwide.

Major Gallegos enlisted in the United States Air Force as an Aircraft Armament Systems Technician in 2000 and earned his commission through Officer Training School in 2008. He has served in various maintenance positions with a variety of aircraft experience including F-16, F-15E, F-15C/D, F-35A, F-22, B-2, and C-130J. He has deployed supporting Operations SOUTHERN WATCH, IRAQI FREEDOM, FREEDOM’S SENTINEL, and INHERENT RESOLVE. He is married to Brandi Gallegos and together have two children, Kyler (21) and Kaitlyn (19).

EDUCATION:

2003   Bachelor of Professional Aeronautics, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Daytona Beach, FL

2008   Air and Space Basic Course, in-residence, Maxwell AFB, AL

2013   Master of Aeronautical Science, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Daytona Beach, FL

2014   Squadron Officer School, in-residence, Maxwell AFB, AL

2021   Master of Military Operational Art and Science, Air Command and Staff College, Maxwell AFB, AL

 

ASSIGNMENTS:

1. 24 December 2008-February 2012, Various Maintenance Duties, 509th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, Whiteman AFB, MO

2. February 2012-July 2013, Maintenance Flight Commander, 31st Test and Evaluation Squadron, Edwards AFB, CA

3. June 2013-June 2016, Operations Officer, 31st Test and Evaluation Squadron, Edwards AFB, CA

4. June 2016-March 2017, Aircraft Maintenance Unit Officer-in-Charge, 757th Aircraft Maintenance Unit, Nellis AFB, NV

5. March 2017-June 2019, Operations Officer, 757th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, Nellis AFB, NV

6. June 2019-July 2020, Air University Fellow, Squadron Officer School, Maxwell AFB, AL

7. July 2020-June 2021, Student, Air Command and Staff College, Maxwell AFB, AL

8. June 2021-Present, Commander, 509th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, Whiteman AFB, MO

 

MAJOR AWARDS AND DECORATIONS:

Bronze Star

Meritorious Service Medal

Air Force Commendation Medal with three oak leaf clusters

Air Force Achievement Medal with one oak leaf cluster

 

EFFECTIVE DATES OF PROMOTION:

Second Lieutenant       Aug 6, 2008

First Lieutenant             Aug 6, 2010

Captain                          Aug 6, 2012

Major                              May 1, 2018

(Current as of June 2021)

Dr. Jamie Burkhart, Green Ridge Military Affairs Committee

Dr. Jamie Burkhart is the Superintendent of Schools in Green Ridge. She began working in this position in Green Ridge R-VIII School District July 1, 2017. Dr. Burkhart works at the state level in public school education, serving on the Missouri Association of School Administrators (MASA) Executive Committee, and on the Missouri Assessment Partnership (MOAP) Executive Committee.

 

On the local level, Dr. Burkhart serves on the Whiteman Base Community Council and the Green Ridge Military Affairs Committee. She is on the Green Ridge Education Foundation Board that is responsible for scholarships for students graduating from Green Ridge High School. She is also a member of her local P.E.O. Chapter BA.

Dr. Burkhart received her Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees from University of Central Missouri in Warrensburg, and her Specialist and Doctorate Degrees from Saint Louis University in St. Louis.

Though she continues to enjoy her career in the field of education, Dr. Burkhart states her greatest roles remain mom to six children (Jasmine, Joshua, James, Josie, Jordon and Jackson), and Mimi to her five granddaughters (Kaylee, Ava, Kingsleigh, Tori and Hadley). Dr. Jamie Burkhart and her husband, Richard, live in the country just outside their hometown, Windsor, Missouri.

 

 

LARRY SMITH

Representative from the Higginsville Chamber of Commerce and Whiteman Heritage Foundation.

I have been member of Base Community Council since 1994.

President of Whiteman Heritage Foundation since its incorporation as a Non-profit corporation in 1996.

I have been involved in some sort of education since 1966.  Graduated from MU in 1966 BS in educ. and MS in education from CMSU in 1970.  Teacher and coach at Fort Osage and Lafayette C-1 school districts.

I was responsible in part for the glider and various structural parts to be donated to the Air Force at Whiteman Air Force Base.

I was responsible in part for the production of C-41 Crossroads production of “Wing and a Prayer” video.

I have been employed part time with FEMA since 2004.  Presently retired and on recall status. MY position was applicant service representative and facilities manager of local sites.

 

MAJOR ERIC D. HULSHIZER

Maj Eric D. Hulshizer is the Commander, 509th Comptroller Squadron, 509th Bomb Wing, Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri. In this capacity he commands 150 military and civilian personnel within the 509th Comptroller Squadron and the Wing Staff Agencies. As the wing’s Chief Financial Officer, he is responsible for providing expert financial advice and decision support to the 509th Bomb Wing Commander regarding the execution and oversight of the Wing’s $150 million annual appropriated budget, non-appropriated funds, military and travel pay, and cash disbursing operations.
Maj Hulshizer earned his commissioned in the United States Air Force in May 2009 through ROTC from Oklahoma State University. He has held a variety of comptroller positions at the wing, major command, and Headquarters Air Force levels. Prior to his current position, Maj Hulshizer was the Commander, 39th Comptroller Squadron, 39th Air Base Wing, Incirlik Air Base, Turkey.

EDUCATION
2009 Bachelor of Arts degree in political science and economics, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK
2009 Basic Financial Management Officer Course, Keesler AFB, MS
2009 Air and Space Basic Course, Maxwell AFB, AL
2014 Financial Management Staff Officer Course, Keesler AFB, MS
2014 Squadron Officer Course, Maxwell AFB, AL, in residence
2015 Master of Business Administration, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK
2020 Air Command and Staff College, Maxwell Air Force Base, AL, by correspondence

ASSIGNMENTS
1. June 2009 – September 2010, Deputy Budget Officer, 23d Comptroller Squadron, Moody AFB, GA
2. September 2010 - June 2012, Flight Commander, Financial Services, 23d Comptroller Squadron, Moody AFB, GA
3. June 2012 – June 2015, Comptroller, 461st Air Control Wing, Robins AFB, GA (October 2013 – May 2014, Comptroller, 455th Air Expeditionary Wing, Bagram AB, Afghanistan)
4. June 2015 – July 2017, Flight Commander, Financial Analysis, 86th Comptroller Squadron, Ramstein AB, Germany
5. August 2017 – June 2018, Chief, A3/10 Resource Management, HQ USAFE-AFAFRICA, Ramstein AB, Germany
6. June 2018 – August 2019, Executive Officer, Directorate of Budget Operations and Personnel, Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Financial Management and Comptroller, the Pentagon, Washington, D.C
7. August 2019 – June 2020, Air Staff Budget Analyst, Special Programs Division, Directorate of Budget Investment, Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Financial Management and Comptroller, the Pentagon, Washington, D.C
8. June 2020 – July 2021, Commander, 39th Comptroller Squadron, Incirlik AB, Turkey
9. July 2021 – Present, Commander, 509th Comptroller Squadron, Whiteman AFB, MO
MAJOR AWARDS AND DECORATIONS
Meritorious Service Medal with three oak leaf clusters
Air Force Commendation Medal with two oak leaf clusters

OTHER ACHIEVEMENTS
2020 Air Force Major General Frank R. Faykes Financial Management and Comptroller of the Year
2020 HQ USAFE-AFAFRICA Major General Alfred K. Flowers Comptroller Organization of the Year
2014 HQ ACC Major General Frank R. Faykes Financial Management and Comptroller of the Year
2015 Certified Defense Financial Manager (CDFM)
2014 Defense Financial Management Certification Program – Level 2 (DFMCP-2)
EFFECTIVE DATES OF PROMOTION
Second Lieutenant May 27, 2009
First Lieutenant May 27, 2011
Captain May 27, 2013
Major March 1, 2019

(CURRENT AS OF JULY 2021)

JIM HALLAM

Jim Hallam joined the Base Community council in 2014 as Lees Summit’s first director. Although Jim was unable to serve due to health issues, his family has a rich military history.  Jim has been married to Jolene for 32 years and has a 23 year old disabled daughter, Jensen.  Jim has been a State Farm insurance agent in Lee’s Summit since 1995 and been with the company since 1986.  His main interest with the Base Community council is connecting the members of the 509th CES to the wonderful activities Lee’s Summit offers as the gateway to Kansas City for the base.  Jim enjoys golfing and all Kansas City sports when he’s not with family or helping the 509th CES.  No one on base has ever seen Jim in anything but the characteristic red State Farm shirt and khakis so most of his friends in the CES call him “Jake from State Farm”…. What ‘cha wearin’ Jake Jake?

 

 

 

Squadron Liaison: Lieutenant Colonel Scott D. Cline, 509th Civil Engineer Squadron Commander

Lt Col Scott D. Cline is Commander, 509th Civil Engineer Squadron, Whiteman AFB, Missouri. He oversees the plans, programs, design, construction, operation, and maintenance of 342 base facilities worth $3.5 billion. He provides explosive ordnance disposal, emergency management, air base operability, fire protection, environmental quality, and housing services for the 509th Bomb Wing, 131st Bomb Wing, and 442d Fighter Wing. He is responsible for training and equipping 380 military and civilian personnel to support operations and contingencies worldwide, and administers $35 million in operation and maintenance services and active construction.
Lt Col Cline entered the Air Force in 2001 after graduating from the Reserve Officer Training Corps at Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma. A career civil engineer, he has held several base, major command, and Air Staff level positions, including Project Engineer, Flight Commander, and Squadron Commander and has deployed in support of Operations ENDURING FREEDOM, IRAQI FREEDOM, INHERENT RESOLVE, RESOLUTE SUPPORT, and FREEDOM’S SENTINEL. Lt Col Cline is a registered Professional Engineer in the State of Florida. Prior to his current position, he served as Commander, 312th Training Squadron, Goodfellow AFB, Texas.

EDUCATION
2001 Bachelor of Science, Civil Engineering, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Okla.
2002 Air and Space Basic Course, Maxwell Air Force Base, Ala.
2006 Squadron Officer School, Maxwell AFB, Ala.
2008 Master of Science, Facilities Management, Southern Methodist University, Dallas, Texas
2012 Air Command and Staff College, Maxwell AFB, Ala., by correspondence

ASSIGNMENTS
June 2001-August 2004, Community Planner, Chief of Systems Projects, and Chief of Simplified Acquisition of Base Engineering Requirements, 99th Civil Engineer Squadron, Nellis AFB, Nev. (December 2002-July 2003, 438th Expeditionary Civil Engineer Flight Commander, undisclosed location in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM)
August 2004-July 2008, Chief of Maintenance Engineering, 92d Civil Engineer Squadron, Fairchild AFB, Wash. (January 2005 - May 2005, Project Engineer, 332d Expeditionary Civil Engineer Squadron, Balad Air Base, Iraq)
March 2007-March 2008, Chief of Engineering, West Region, 201st Regional Security Advisory Command - Central, Camp Aimal, Afghanistan
July 2008-September 2009, Readiness and Emergency Management Flight Commander, 886th Civil Engineer Squadron, Ramstein AB, Germany (May 2009-December 2009, Civil Engineer Flight Commander, 387th Expeditionary Support Squadron, Abdullah Al Mubarak AB, Kuwait)
September 2009-July 2011, Deputy Operations Flight Commander, later, Operations Flight Commander, 786th Civil Engineer Squadron, Ramstein AB, Germany
July 2011-August 2013, Chief of Operations and Maintenance Requirements and Executive Officer, Directorate of Installations and Mission Support, Headquarters Air Force Special Operations Command, Hurlburt Field, Fla.
U N I T E D S T A T E S A I R F O R C E
August 2013-July 2015, Commander, 775th Civil Engineer Squadron, Hill AFB, Utah (December 2014-July 2015, Commander, 387th Expeditionary Support Squadron, Abdullah Al Mubarak AB, Kuwait)
August 2015-July 2017, Financial Analyst, later, Deputy Chief, Integration Division, Directorate of Civil Engineers, Headquarters, United States Air Force, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.
July 2017-June 2019, Commander, 312th Training Squadron, Goodfellow AFB, Texas
June 2019 - Present, Commander, 509th Civil Engineer Squadron, Whiteman AFB, Mo.

DECORATIONS
Meritorious Service Medal with seven oak leaf clusters
Air Force Commendation Medal with two oak leaf clusters
Air Force Achievement Medal with three oak leaf clusters
Meritorious Unit Award with three oak leaf cluster
Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with Valor Device and four oak leaf clusters
Air Force Organizational Excellence Award
Afghanistan Campaign Medal with bronze star
Iraq Campaign Medal with bronze star
Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal
NATO Medal (Afghanistan)

EFFECTIVE DATES OF PROMOTION
Second Lieutenant May 30, 2001
First Lieutenant May 30, 2003
Captain May 30, 2005
Major July 1, 2011
Lieutenant Colonel July 1, 2016
(Current as of December 2019)

Sue Hook

My name is Sue Hook and I am the Market President of Equity Bank, based out of Warrensburg, MO and have held this position since October 1, 2018. Prior to my position with Equity Bank, I worked as a Commercial Loan Officer at Blue Ridge Bank for 18 years.

Along with my responsibilities with Equity Bank, I am the residing Treasurer of the Whiteman Air Force Base – BaseCommunity Council, Board of Trustees member for Western Missouri Medical Center, and also serve on the Board for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Johnson County.

In my present role I manage three banking locations for Equity Bank; Warrensburg, Knob Noster, and Sweet Springs. I am responsible for loan and deposit growth in these three markets. I also take great pride in coordinating Equity Bank’s Sponsorship’s and Community Involvement in these three markets.

My husband, Todd, and I have been married for 25 years and are the proud parents of two boys, 37-year-old son, Andy that is married to Kelli with a son Kaden and daughter Adyson and lives in Gilbert, AZ , and 34-year-old, Brent that is married to Mindy with 2 daughters Finnley & Mavis and lives in Warrensburg. We are proud to be third generation farmers and live and manage the family farm north of Warrensburg.

(Current as of August 2019)

 

 

 

Rev. Jon-Michael Schweigert

Rev. Jon-Michael Schweigert is the Base Community Council representative for Knob Noster. He is the Pastor of Faith Lutheran Church of Knob Noster, Missouri and the Director of Campus Ministry for the Lutheran Student Center of the University of Central Missouri in Warrensburg, Missouri. He is also the son of Chief Petty Officer David Schweigert, USN.

In 2011 Pastor Schweigert attained a Bachelor of Science in Psychology (B.S.) from Southeast Missouri State University with an emphasis in Clinical Psychology as well as Cognitive Psychology. In 2015 he completed his Masters of Divinity (M.Div) at Concordia Seminary in St. Louis Missouri which included demonstrating competence in Koiné Greek and Ancient Hebrew for the purpose of examining ancient manuscripts. Pastor Schweigert has also completed four units of Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) as a healthcare chaplain, accruing around 2000 hours of supervised counseling. He is presently pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) while working on a thesis detailing the influence of American culture on the will of individual Christians.

Pastor Schweigert married his High School sweetheart in 2010 and together they take seriously the instruction to “love thy neighbor.” As a result, Pastor Schweigert may often be found volunteering for events and programs at Whiteman Air Force Base, rescuing airmen with car trouble, providing for the homeless, offering free crisis counseling, hosting BBQ’s for active and retired members of the armed services, supporting Knob Noster Middle School and High School with their freshman orientation program, and being generous with his time and treasures. He is also involved financially or otherwise supporting the Door of Hope home for pregnant women of Clinton, the Knob Noster Food Pantry, the Lutheran School System of Concordia and Sedalia, the Stealth Lounge, the Missouri Veteran’s Home-Warrensburg, Parenting Children With Special Needs, Voice of the Martyr’s, the LCMS Ministry to the Armed Forces, and many other charities.

Pastor Schweigert insists that he does not deserve recognition for his academic achievements or service, preferring that glory and thanks be to God.

Current as of April 10, 2019

 

 

Dr. Jerrod H. Wheeler

Dr. Jerrod H. Wheeler is in his 6^th year serving as Superintendent of Knob Noster Public Schools. KNPS is one of the nation’s 26 heavily military impacted schools, serving a 70% military-connected student population.  Wheeler is active in various leadership roles within support organizations, including: Whiteman Area Leadership Council, Whiteman Base Community Council, Association of Defense Communities, MIC3, National Association of Federally Impact Schools, and Military Impacted Schools Association.  Dr. Wheeler recognizes the opportunity, importance, and urgency to unify efforts in support of military students and he continues to bring people together across all support organizations. Wheeler was recently appointed to Congresswoman Vicky Hartzler’s Military Affairs Committee specifically to represent military-child education.

 

Jerrod received his Doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of Louisiana, Monroe, his Master’s in Educational Administration from the University of Louisiana, Monroe, and his Bachelor’s in Education from Northeast Louisiana University, where he was also a two time National Champion in Collegiate Waterskiing. Dr. Wheeler completed post studies through the Harvard Graduate School of Education Leadership Institute for Superintendents and will complete the National Security Forum Institute through Air University in 2021 (delayed from 2020). Wheeler and his wife, Amie, have been married for 20 years and have two children, Jorgie (12) and Jaxon (10), who attend Knob Noster Public Schools. Mrs. Wheeler is a school counselor with KNPS and also assumed duties as Director of Digital Learning during Covid-19.

 

Significant Service Awards and Recognitions

2020 – US News and World Report - # 1 Rural and # 1 Small High School in MO for College Readiness

2019 – Military Child Education Coalition – General Pete Taylor Partnership of Excellence Award

2019 – US News and World Report –  # 1 Rural High School & # 1 Small High School in Missouri

2019 – Strategic Deterrent Coalition – General Robert Smolen Award & Scholarship

2017 – Military Child Education Coalition – General Pete Taylor Partnership of Excellence Award

2009 – United States Department of Education – Blue Ribbon Schools Award

2009 – Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Gold Star Schools Award

 

Current Major Unified Initiative

Knob Noster High School Innovation Campus and Transitioning Veteran Training Center

1. STEM Aligned High School Student and Veteran Career Workforce Ecosystem

2. Enhanced Early Childhood Learning Center

3. Multiple All-Weather Indoor and Outdoor Joint-Use Youth/Adult Athletic/Activities Facilities

4. Integrated FEMA P-361 Safe Room/Storm Shelter to Serve Whiteman AFB/Knob Noster

5. Whiteman Air Force Base History Museum and Integrated Performing Arts Center

($25m Defense Communities Infrastructure Program Funding Request)

 

 

Squadron Liaison: Maj. Michael Rivera, 509Th Maintenance Squadron Commander

Major Michael B. Rivera

Major Michael B. Rivera is the Commander, 509th Maintenance Squadron, 509th Maintenance Group, 509th Bomb Wing, Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri.  As the commander, he leads over 540 total force Airmen in accomplishing the global mission of the 509th Bomb Wing and is responsible for directing backshop maintenance for 20 B-2 aircraft valued at over $44.4B.  Additionally, he implements a $9M budget while providing direct oversight of $132M in mission support equipment and facilities.

 

Major Rivera was commissioned through the United States Air Force Academy in 2008 where he received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Social Sciences.  He has served in a variety of aircraft maintenance positions at the base level as well as the primary Maintenance Advisor to the F-15 Maintenance Squadron located in Dhahran, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.  Prior to assuming his current position, Major Rivera was the maintenance operations officer for the 509th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron where he was responsible for ensuring maintenance readiness for conventional strike, nuclear deterrence, and platform advancement of the Air Force’s B-2 fleet.

 
EDUCATION

2008   Bachelor of Science degree in Social Sciences, United States Air Force Academy, Colo.

2008   Air and Space Basic Course, Maxwell Air Force Base (AFB), Ala.

2012   Master of Business Administration degree in General Management, Trident University International, Calif.

2014   Combat Support Course, Advanced Maintenance and Munitions Officer School, Nellis AFB, Nev.

2014   Squadron Officer School, Maxwell AFB, Ala.

2018   Air Command and Staff College (correspondence)

 

ASSIGNMENTS

August 2008 – January 2009, Avionics Flight Commander, 4th Component Maintenance Squadron, Seymour Johnson AFB, N.C.

January 2009 – April 2009, Student, Aircraft Maintenance Officer Course, 82d Training Wing, Sheppard AFB, Texas

April 2009 – February 2010, Propulsion Flight Commander, 4th Component Maintenance Squadron, Seymour Johnson AFB, N.C.

February 2010 – October 2011, 335th Aircraft Maintenance Unit Assistant Officer in Charge, 4th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, Seymour Johnson AFB, N.C.

October 2011 – May 2012, Maintenance Operations Officer, 4th Maintenance Operations Squadron, Seymour Johnson AFB, N.C.

May 2012 – May 2013, Maintenance Advisor, Air Force Division, United States Military Training Mission, Dhahran, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

May 2013 – April 2014, Maintenance Operations Officer, 52d Equipment Maintenance Squadron, Spangdahlem Air Base (AB), Germany.

May 2014-July 2015, 480th Aircraft Maintenance Unit Officer in Charge, 52d Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, Spangdahlem AB, Germany

July 2015 – February 2017, Phoenix Mobility Officer, Maintenance Flight Commander & Maintenance Operations Officer, 735th Air Mobility Squadron, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii

February 2017 – May 2018, Phoenix Mobility Officer, Chief Commander’s Action Group, 515 Air Mobility Operations Wing, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii

May 2018 – May 2020, Maintenance Operations Officer, 509 Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, Whiteman AFB, MO

May 2018 – Present, Commander, 509 Maintenance Squadron, Whiteman AFB, MO

 

MAJOR AWARDS AND DECORATIONS

Meritorious Service Medal

Joint Service Commendation Medal

Air Force Commendation Medal with one oak leaf cluster

Nuclear Deterrence Operations Service Medal with ‘N’ Device

 

EFFECTIVE DATES OF PROMOTION

Second Lieutenant             May 28, 2008

First Lieutenant                  May 28, 2010

Captain                                May 28, 2012

Major                                  Mar 1, 2018

 

(Current as of May 2020) 

 

 

 

Jennifer Corson

My name is Jennifer Corson and I am proud and honored to serve the Leeton R-X School District as the Middle/High School Principal.  

At Leeton, the faculty and staff have a shared mission to prepare each student for a diverse and rapidly changing world through excellent educational opportunities while in a safe and caring environment. Due to these changes, we will continue to adapt and change our approach, strategies, and procedures to provide the most effective learning environment possible for each individual student.

All of us at Leeton are eager to begin what promises to be the best year yet! This year is going to be amazing as we continue to provide academic experiences for our students that are rigorous, relevant, and help build relationships while making real-world connections. As your principal, it is important to me that everyone who steps through our doors are excited to be here. This attitude enables us to meet the challenges of academic excellence in a positive and fun environment.

I look forward to working with you as a partner in your child's education. In the event of any questions or issues, please do not hesitate to call the MS/HS Office at (660) 653-4314 to set up a meeting or email me at jcorson@leeton.k12.mo.us.

Proud to be a BULLDOG!

Marsha Corbin

Marsha Corbin has served as Executive Director for the Old Trails Regional Tourism Partnership since September 2013.  The partnership represents a 9 county region of mid-Missouri, and was organized to provide visitor infrastructure through the nine county region of Clay, Ray, Carroll, Chariton, Lafayette, Saline, Howard, Cooper and eastern Jackson.  The partnership provides a gateway to the scenic and historic sites, unique products, and attractions of the region.

Prior to this position she worked for MU Extension with the Healthy Lifestyle Initiative in Lafayette County.  She was the recipient of the Healthcare Foundation of Greater Kansas City 2013 Healthy Lafayette Award for her work with farmers markets, local food pantries and walking and biking trails.

Prior to her employment with Old Trails, Marsha was a volunteer leader in the Show-Me Scenic Byway project, the predecessor to the Old Trails Partnership.  Her previous work experience included seventeen years in the Title Insurance industry.

She attended the University of Missouri- Columbia, majoring in ag business.  She and her husband Kent live on the family’s Century Farm at Dover and raise cattle and crops in partnership with their 2 sons. 

(Current as of July 2016)

 

Squadron Liaison: Maj. Tiffany Carter, 509th Contracting Squadron Commander

Maj Tiffany D. Carter is the Commander of the 509th Contracting Squadron, Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri. Maj Carter is responsible for the acquisition and management of $44 billion dollars in B-2 stealth bomber assets for Air Force Global Strike Command and USSTRACOM missions and directives. In this capacity, she is responsible for training and equipping a 37-member squadron that develops and executes responsive business solutions enabling the worldwide deployment of platforms supporting the Global Strike; Intelligences, Surveillance and Reconnaissance; Close Air Support; and Attack, Reconnaissance and Security missions.

Major Carter commissioned into the Air Force in May 2010 through the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps program at Jackson State University in Jackson, Mississippi. She has ten years of active-duty service in the contracting career field. She has served in multiple contracting roles in Georgia, California and Louisiana and was the lead for the first-ever Air Force wide helicopter maintenance program worth $835 million where she supported 3 Major Commands and 1 Direct Reporting Unit. She deployed as a Contingency Contracting Officer in support of Operation FREEDOM’S SENTINEL at Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan.

EDUCATION
2009 Bachelor of Business Administration, Finance, Jackson State University, Jackson, MS
2010 Master of Business Administration, Jackson State University, Jackson, MS
2011 Air and Space Basic Course, Maxwell Air Force Base, AL
2016 Squadron Officer School, Maxwell AFB, AL

ASSIGNMENTS
November 2010 – September 2012, Contracts Manager, Commodities Flight, Warner Robins Air Logistics Center, Robins Air Force Base (AFB), GA.
October 2012 – November 2013, Contract Specialist, Construction Flight, Warner Robins Air Logistics Center, Robins AFB, GA.
November 2013 – February 2016, Contracts Manager, Contracting Division, Launch and Range Systems Directorate, Space and Missile Systems Center, Los Angeles AFB, CA. (October 2015 – April 2016, Contingency Contracting Officer, North Atlantic Treaty Organization Special Operations Component Command-Afghanistan, Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan)
February 2016 – November 2017, Contracts Manager, Contracting Division, Range and Network, Space and Missile Systems Center, Los Angeles AFB, CA.
November 2017 – June 2019, Team Lead, 767 Specialized Contracting Flight, Barksdale AFB, LA.
June 2019 – November 2019, Contracting Officer, 767 Specialized Contracting Flight, Barksdale AFB, LA.
November 2019 – Jun 2020, Chief, Operations Division, Air Force Installation Contracting Center, Barksdale AFB, LA.
Jun 2020 – Present, Commander, 509th Contracting Squadron, Whiteman AFB, Missouri

MAJOR AWARDS AND DECORATIONS
Defense Meritorious Service Medal
Meritorious Service Medal
Air Force Commendation Medal
Air Force Achievement Medal
Joint Service Achievement Medal

EFFECTIVE DATES OF PROMOTION
Second Lieutenant Aug. 6, 2010
First Lieutenant Aug. 6, 2012
Captain Aug 6, 2014
Major June 1, 2020

(Current as of September 2020)

 

Tracy L. Amos

Born in Kansas City, MO, on June 4, 1970, Tracy spent her first few childhood years living in KC, MO. At age 8, her family moved to Montrose, CO, where she spent the next several years before attending the University of Northern Colorado for her freshman year in 1988. She then transferred to Mesa State University and graduated in 1992 with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and an emphasis in Finance. In 1995, she graduated with a Master of Science in International Relations from Troy State University.

In 1993, Tracy joined the Missouri Army National Guard as an Executive Administrative Assistant. This position required she work only for officers ranking Colonel or higher. She also qualified as an Information Technology Specialist responsible for monitoring and troubleshooting military computer systems and operations. She is certified in multiple computer processing languages and dealt with highly classified material daily.

In March 1998, she married Von Amos and in March 1999, they welcomed their first child Alexis into the world. In 2000, they welcomed their son Garrett as an additional member of their family.

In 2005, Tracy deployed to Iraq where she worked as a Senior Intelligence Analyst at the General Officer level. After serving our nation for 24 years, she retired in 2016 as a Command Sergeant Major, also at the General Officer level. This senior rank is only achieved by less than 0.8% of uniformed men and women during their military careers. After retiring from the National Guard, Tracy and her family moved back to Missouri. She currently resides and works in Lincoln, MO, as a Relator. With the values and ethics instilled in her through the Army and having grown up spending summers at the Lake of the Ozarks, she is excited to serve her neighbors and contribute to the community she calls home.

Tracy’s commitment is evident in her pursuit of education and community involvement. She is certified by the Missouri Real Estate Commission and the National Association of Realtors as a Realtor. She has continued her professional development and achieved the designation of At Home with Diversity (AHWD). Additionally, Since January 2020, Tracy has served on the Western Central Association of Realtors Education Committee, the Missouri Association of Realtors Professional Development Output Committee, and she is currently pursuing her GRI (Graduate Realtor Institute) designation.

Karl Kramer

My name is Karl A. Kramer and I am the Communications Director for McCarthy

Auto Group, based out of Olathe, KS and have held this position since October 23rd, of 2012. Prior to my position with McCarthy Auto Group, I worked in many Sales, Service & Legal capacities for General Motors Corporation/Company for two months shy of 21 years.

Along with my responsibilities with McCarthy Auto Group, I am the residing President of the Sedalia Chamber of Commerce (Sedalia, MO), President of the Whiteman Air Force Base – Base Community Council and also serve on the Boards for The First Tee of Kansas City and the American Cancer Society’s Chairman’s Circle for Kansas City.

In my present role I manage and coordinate all of the traditional marketing needs for McCarthy Auto Group, as well as coordinate all of the social media and reputation management for the dealerships and Collision Centers. We presently have nine automotive dealership locations and five Collision Centers. I also take great pride in coordinating the Auto Group’s Sponsorship’s and Community Involvement. Lastly, I also am responsible to coordinate all internal communications across the Auto Group. We presently have approximately 520 Team Members.

I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Automotive Technology / Advanced Technical Studies. While in college I served as a Student Teacher and while in college and during my employment with General Motors, served as a mentor to many colleagues.

My wife, Kristy, and I have been married for almost 27 years and are the proud parents of a 18-year- old son, Kendrick, and 17-year-old daughter, Kennedy.

(Current as of July 2016)

 

 

Debra Andresen

November 1, 2018, Debra accepted the position of Executive Director of the Sedalia Area Chamber of Commerce and began at the Chamber as an Office Manager in 2011.

Debra has a passion for her local community and has volunteered for several local Non-Profit over the years which include, Citizens Against Spouse Abuse (CASA), Sedalia Downtown Development, Child Safe, Whiteman Base Community Council, Missouri State Fair Foundation, and the BRCH Lub Dub. She is also an active member of the Sedalia Business Women since 2015 and was President from 2017-2018. Debra also serves as the District 4 representative for the Chamber of Commerce Executives of Missouri.

Debra is a 1993 graduate of Smith Cotton High School and holds an AAS in Office Manager and Marketing Retail from State Fair Community College.

Debra has been married to her husband Rick for 28 years. They have 4 children together and are guardians of their niece and nephew. Rick and Debra also have three grandchildren and a wonderful son-in-law. 

 

Squadron Liaison: Lt. Col. Devin Sproston, 509th Security Forces Squadron Commander

Lieutenant Colonel Devin L. Sproston is the Commander of the 509th Security Forces Squadron located at Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri. His squadron is comprised of 541 security forces professionals who are responsible for the security of the nation’s only B-2 stealth bomber fleet. Lt Col Sproston’s team provides Law Enforcement, Integrated Defense and Force Protections duties for 13,000 personnel and $45B in protection level assets. Prior to this assignment, Lt Col Sproston was the Commander of the 35th Security Forces Squadron, Misawa Air Base, Japan. There he led 260 Airman and civilian employees conducting Law Enforcement, Integrated Defense, Intelligence Fusion and Force Protection duties for 11,500 personnel and $3.5B in Protection Level assets alongside the Naval Air Facility and Japanese Defense Forces. Lt Col Sproston also conducted duties as the Installation Anti-Terrorism officer and was the Area Defense Force Commander for Base Cluster Defense operations for the Northern Sector of Japan.

Lt Col Sproston grew up in Lisbon, Iowa and entered military service in September of 1994 as a Basic Marine Rifleman. He received his commission through the Reserve Officer Training Corps at the University of Georgia in 2004. He has served as a Flight Commander, Logistics Officer, Operations Officer, Deputy Squadron Commander, Squadron Commander and deployed multiple times. He is married with two children.

EDUCATION
2004 Bachelor of Science in Education, University of Georgia, Athens, GA
2004 Air and Space Basic Course, Maxwell AFB, AL
2009 Squadron Officers School, Maxwell AFB, AL
2012 Master’s Degree in Military Arts and Science, Joint Warfare, AMU, Charles Town, WV
2014 Air Command and Staff College, Correspondence
2018 Air Command and Staff College, Residence

ASSIGNMENTS
Sept 1994 – 2001 Various Marine Corps Assignments
June 2004 – Jan 2008, Flight CC and OIC S-4/Logistics, 5th SFS, Minot AFB, ND
Feb 2008 – Feb 2011, OIC Commando Warrior and OPSO/S3, 736th SFS, Andersen AFB, GU.
Feb 2011 – May 2013, OPSO/S3, 204th SFS, Fort Bliss, TX
May 2013 – July 2015, Deputy Commander 51st SFS, Osan AB, ROK
July 2015 – June 2017, Commander 81st SFS, Keesler AFB, MS
June 2017 – July 2018, Air Command and Staff College Student, Maxwell AFB, AL
July 2018 – Aug 2020, Commander 35st SFS, Misawa AB, Japan
July 2020 – Present, Commander 509th SFS, Whiteman AFB, MO

MAJOR AWARDS AND DECORATIONS
51st Fighter Wing Company Grade Officer Lance P. Sijan, 2014
36th Fighter Wing Company Grade Officer of the Year, 2010
Meritorious Service Medal with four Oak Leaf Clusters
Air Force Commendation Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster
Army Commendation Medal
Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal

EFFECTIVE DATES OF PROMOTIONS
Private 1994
Private First Class 1994
Lance Corporal 1995
Corporal 1996
Sergeant 1998
Staff Sergeant 1999
Second Lieutenant June 2004
First Lieutenant June 2006
Captain June 2008
Major Nov 2014
Lt Col May 2019

(Current as of 22 September 2020)

Casey Lund

Casey Lund was born and raised in Warrensburg and is a graduate of Warrensburg High School and the University of Central Missouri. Casey was elected to the Warrensburg City Council in 2017 and is the current Mayor of Warrensburg. He and his wife, Jessica (a military brat), own Warrensburg Collision and Casey manages the business.

Casey serves on Whiteman Base Community Council (president beginning November 2019), Warrensburg Schools Foundation Board, the Western Missouri Medical Center Foundation Board (Business Relations Committee, chair), Johnson County Economic Development Board, Warrensburg Chamber Military Affairs Committee, Noon Rotary, President of Economic Coordinating Board, and mentors for the Big Idea Conference held at UCM. Casey was selected as Ingrams Magazine’s 40 Under 40 in 2018, is past president of the Warrensburg Chamber of Commerce, completed Missouri Leadership in 2018, and a CLIMB 2014 graduate. He often presents or emcees for various organizations and groups.

He and his wife, Jessica, live in Warrensburg and have three beautiful daughters in the Warrensburg R-VI School district.

 

 

Suzanne Taylor

Suzanne Taylor is the Executive Director of the Greater Warrensburg Area Chamber of Commerce. Her duties involve managing an organization that’s purpose is to strengthen business, empower leaders and support the community. Suzanne was born, raised and educated in England but quickly adapted to the life of a military spouse after relocating to the United States over twenty years ago. Her desire to serve is evident through her active participation in the local community to include the Johnson County Adult Literacy Board of Directors, participation in the Early Childhood Hunger Operation Program, Project Community Connect and Manna Harvest. Suzanne is an active Rotarian, board member of Whiteman Base Community Council, member of the Whiteman Spouses’ Club and Western Missouri Medical Center (WMMC) Auxiliary, serves on the WMMC Foundation Business Relations Committee, and a member of the International Association of Women. She is a graduate of the Institute for Organization Management, past attendee to the National Security Forum at Air War College, and Community Leadership Means a Better Community (CLIMB) graduate and CLIMB Alumni of the Year. She feels her major accomplishment was raising two boys to be self-sufficient, productive, and caring adults. Suzanne enjoys walking, cooking, golfing and spending time with family and friends. She resides, with her husband, in Warrensburg and is vested in the community which they are proud to call home.

 

 

Dr. John Finnane

I have been a resident of Warrensburg for 22 years.  I have served as principal at Maple Grove Elementary for the past 10 years.  I have been a public school educator for 27 years and have served in the Warrensburg School District for the past 21 years.  I will  transition to a new role in the school district on July 1st, where I will serve as the Assistant Superintendent for Student Services.  I hold a Bachelor's Degree from Kansas State University, a Master's Degree from Webster University, An Educational Specialist Degree from the University of Central Missouri, and a Doctorate from Lindenwood University.  My wife Dr. Beth Finnane is a dentist in Warrensburg, and I have 4 children, Patrick 21, Matthew, 18, William, 16, and Catherine 11.

Lynette Stokes

A Boonville, Missouri native, Lynette Stokes relocated to Benton County in 2014. She joined Benton County Tourism & Recreation as the Executive Director in 2017 and enjoys promoting the counties’ unique towns, recreation and lake-related assets in Cole Camp, Lincoln and Warsaw.

Prior to joining tourism, she has been in property management, sales and marketing and accounting. She enjoys problem-solving, as well as event planning, marketing and fundraising and this has helped her become successful throughout her career.

When she isn’t working, you can find Lynette either out on one of the lakes or volunteering her time for the betterment of animals, as she has been a strong animal advocate for the past 7 years.

Lynette is eager to serve on the BCC and share her passion for the Benton County area. She is looking forward to using her skills and talents to support the members of our armed forces.

 

 

LIEUTENANT COLONEL M. CRAIG BOOTH

Lt Col M. Craig Booth is Deputy Director of Communications, Air Forces-Strategic Air, Joint Global Strike Operations Center, Barksdale AFB, Louisiana. In this assignment, Lt Col Booth leads his directorate providing cyber and communications planning for the Joint Global Strike Operations Center commander and the U.S. Strategic Command Joint Forces Air Component Commander. Lt Col Booth graduated from the University of Kansas and commissioned through the Reserve Officer Training Corp. His prior assignments include positions at the major command, numbered air force, group, and squadron levels. He also deployed to the Horn of Africa supporting antiterrorism and antipiracy operations. Additionally, Lt Col Booth served onboard the National Airborne Operations Center where he directly supported the President, Secretary of Defense and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff in commanding and controlling U.S. forces. Prior to his current position, the lieutenant colonel was Director of Cyber Operations in the 488th Intelligence Squadron. He is a non-rated officer aircrew member with more than 750 hours on the E-4B and E- 6B. Lt Col Booth is happily married to Nikki (Hibbs) Booth. They have six children.

EDUCATION
2004 Bachelor of Science degree in Biology, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas 2005 Squadron Officer School, Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama
2011 Master of Arts degree in Military Studies, American Military University, Charles Town,West Virginia 2015 Air Command and Staff College by Correspondence
2018 Joint Forces Staff College, Norfolk, Virginia

ASSIGNMENTS
1.July 2004 - May 2005, Officer in Charge, Network Operations, 27th Communications Squadron, Cannon AirForce Base, New Mexico
2.May 2005 - June 2006, Officer in Charge, Network Infrastructure, 27th Communications Squadron, CannonAFB, New Mexico
3.June 2006 – July 2007, Executive Officer, 27 Maintenance Group, Cannon AFB, New Mexico
4.July 2007 - July 2008, Deputy Flight Commander, Operations Flight, 27th Special OperationsCommunication Squadron, Cannon AFB, New Mexico
5.July 2008 - January 2010, Chief, Operations Branch, Communications Directorate, 17th Air Force, RamsteinAB, Germany
6.January 2010 - August 2010, Officer in Charge, Joint Network Communications Control Center,Camp Lemonier,Djibouti
7.August 2010 - April 2011, Chief, Deployable Communications Branch, Communications Directorate, 17thAir Force, Ramstein AB,Germany
8.April 2011 - Dec 2011, Executive Officer to the Chief of Staff, 17th Air Force, Ramstein AB, Germany.
9.December 2011 - July 2012, Deputy Branch Chief, Plans and Policies Branch, Communications andInformation Directorate, U.S. Air Forces in Europe, Ramstein AB, Germany
10.July 2012 - Oct 2015, Team Two Communications Section Chief, National Airborne Operations Center, OffuttAFB, Nebraska
11.Oct 2015 - Oct 2018, Director of Cyber Operations, 488th Intelligence Squadron, RAF Mildenhall, United Kingdom.
12.Oct 2018 – Present, Deputy Director. Communications Directorate, Air Forces Strategic-Air, Joint-Global StrikeOperations Center, Barksdale AFB, Louisiana

SUMMARY OF JOINT ASSIGNMENTS
1. July 2012 - October 2015, Team Two Communications Section Chief, National Airborne Operations Center, Offutt AFB, Nebraska
MAJOR AWARDS AND DECORATIONS
Joint Meritorious Service Medal
Meritorious Service Medal with 1 oak leaf cluster Aerial Achievement Medal with 3 oak leaf clusters Joint Service Commendation Medal
Air Force Commendation Medal
Air Force Achievement Medal with one oak leaf cluster

EFFECTIVE DATES OF PROMOTION
Second Lieutenant May 24, 2004
First Lieutenant June 24, 2006
Captain June 24, 2008
Major January 1, 2015
Lt Col June 1, 2019

(Current as of December 2019)

Gregory V. Frencken

Mr. Frencken serves on the Air Force Global Strike Command Commander’s Civic Leader Group.  He is an active supporter of Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri.  He currently serves on the boards of Whiteman Base Community Council (Past President) and Whiteman Area Leadership Council (Vice President).  In addition, he serves on the board of the national organization Strategic Deterrent Coalition, and is a National Security Forum alumni. 

 

Mr. Frencken is the owner of Frencken Insurance and Financial Services, Inc.  He has 31 years of experience in the insurance and financial services industry.  He has represented State Farm as an independent contractor the last 23 years in Windsor, Missouri.  Mr. Frencken also owns Jewell Enterprises, LLC which is involved in commercial property purchasing and leasing. 

 

Originally from Neosho, Missouri, Mr. Frencken has been a resident of the Windsor, Missouri area for the last 23 years and Whiteman AFB area for 31 years.  He is married to Jessica Frencken.  Jessica is a Physical Therapist and owns Childs Play Therapy, LLC a pediatric rehabilitation/therapy company.  They have three children.  He and his wife, Jessica, live on 37 acres near the communities of Windsor, Clinton and Warrensburg with their youngest child, Emerson.  Both Mr. Frencken and his wife have been active in organizations that support the area and Whiteman AFB.   

 

EDUCATION:

1988 Bachelor of Health Science in Health Services Management, University of Missouri, Columbia, Mo.

1984-1986 Majored in Marketing and Business, Missouri Southern State University, Joplin, Mo.  Played/Lettered on MSSU basketball team.  Transferred to University of Missouri in Fall 1986.

2016 Retirement Income Certified Professional Designation from the American College of Financial Services, Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania

Insurance, Securities, Mortgage Licenses.

 

WHITEMAN AFB AND MILITARY SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS

Air Force Global Strike Command………………………………….Civic Leader (AUG 2017 – Present)

Whiteman Area Leadership Council………………………………..Board Member (JUN 2016 - Present)

                                            Vice President (AUG 2019 – Present)         

Whiteman Base Community Council……………………………….Board Member (NOV 2008 - Present)

                                                                                                                     President (NOV 2015 – OCT 2017)

Strategic Deterrent Coalition…………………………………………Board Member (AUG 2019 – Present)

 

 

 

BOARD EXPERIENCE

Henry County 911 Emergency Communications Board……Board Member (APR 2015 - MAR 2019)

Windsor Vision Committee…………………………………….Chairman (2010)

Windsor Lions Club………………………………………  ……President (2000, 2006, 2011)

Windsor Area Chamber of Commerce………………………  President (1998-99)

Windsor Lodge of Independent Order of Odd Fellows……...Noble Grand (1999)

Windsor Improvement Company………………………………President (2004)

 

CIVIC AND PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATION MEMBERSHIP

National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors

Windsor Area Chamber of Commerce

Windsor Masonic Lodge

Windsor Independent Order of Odd Fellows

Clinton Elks Lodge #1034

University of Missouri Tiger Scholarship Fund

University of Missouri Alumni Association

Sons of the American Legion

 

MILITARY ASSOCIATED SEMINARS/SYMPOSIUMS ATTENDED

Association of Defense Communities National Summit (2019)

National Security Forum (MAY 2019)

Utah Defense Alliance Triad Forum (2019)

Strategic Deterrent Coalition Symposium (2015, 2018 - 2019)

Nuclear Weapons Accident Incident Exercise VIP Day (APR 2017 Whiteman AFB)

Air Force Global Strike Command Education Symposium (APR 2017 Barksdale AFB)

 

 

 

MAJOR MICHAEL H. HILLIER

 

Maj. Michael H. Hillier is currently assigned as the 509^th Munitions Squadron Commander within the 509^th Maintenance Group at Whiteman Air Force Base (AFB) Missouri. He is responsible for ensuring firepower for B-2 global attack missions by providing reliable munitions and armament systems support for in-garrison and deployed operations.   

 

Maj. Hillier entered the military as a Petroleum, Oils, and Lubrication Apprentice in May of 2001. While enlisted he filled numerous positions to include Fuels Distribution Operator, Fuels Distribution Supervisor, Unit Deployment Manager, and Air Force Recruiter. He commissioned in July of 2009 through Officer Training School after graduating from the University of Phoenix. Since his commission he has led maintainers across the globe in Air Force Global Strike Command, United States Air Forces Europe, and Air Education and Training Command. Prior to his current position as a student, Maj Hillier was the Operations Officer, 7th Munitions Squadron, Dyess Air Force Base, Texas. Prior to his current position, Maj Hillier was a student at the Air Command and Staff College through the school of Advanced Nuclear Deterrence Studies (SANDS) at Maxwell Air Force Base. Maj Hillier is married to his wife, Jennifer. He and his wife have one daughter, Graci.

 

EDUCATION

2005 Airmen Leadership School, Misawa Air Base (AB), Japan

2006 Associate of Applied Science, Logistics Management, Community College of the Air Force, Maxwell Air Force Base (AFB), Ala.

2006 Associate of Applied Science, Human Resource Management, CCAF, Maxwell AFB, Ala.

2009 Bachelor of Science, Management, University of Phoenix, Ariz.

2010 Air and Space Basic Course, Maxwell AFB, Ala

2013 Master of Science, Management, University of Phoenix, Ariz.

2013 Squadron Officer School, Maxwell AFB, Ala., by correspondence

2014 Squadron Officer School, Maxwell AFB, Ala.

2021 School of Advanced Nuclear Deterrence Studies, Air Command and Staff College, Maxwell AFB, Ala.

 

ASSIGNMENTS

1. May 2001–December 2002 Fuels Distribution Operator, 319th Logistics Readiness Squadron, Grand Forks Air Force Base, N.D.

2. January 2003–January 2006 Unit Deployment Manager/Fuels Distribution Supervisor, 35th LRS, Misawa Air Base, Japan

3. April 2006–April 2009 United States Air Force Recruiter, 330th and 338th Recruiting Squadrons Indianapolis, Ind.

4. July 2009–January 2010 Student, Randolph AFB, Texas

5. February 2010–April 2013 Officer-in-Charge, Vehicles and Equipment Section, 341st Maintenance Operations Squadron; OIC, Electro-Mechanical Team Section, 341st Missile Maintenance Squadron; OIC, Missile Maintenance Operations Center, 341st MOS, Malmstrom AFB, Mont.

6. May 2013–May 2015, Flight Commander; Munitions Accountable Systems Officer, 39th MXS, Incirlik AB, Turkey

7. May 2015-January 2017, Instructor, Air Force Logistics Officer School, 363d Training Squadron, Sheppard AFB, Texas

8. January 2017–February 2018, Director of Operations, 362d TRS, Sheppard AFB, Texas

9. February 2018–Present, Operations Officer, 7th Munitions Squadron, Dyess AFB, Texas

10. July 2020–Present, Student, 21st Student Squadron, Maxwell AFB, Alabama

 

MAJOR AWARDS AND DECORATIONS

Meritorious Service Medal with oak leaf cluster

Air Force Commendation Medal with three oak leaf clusters

Air Force Achievement Medal

Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with two oak leaf clusters

Air Force Recognition Ribbon

Air Force Good Conduct Medal with oak leaf cluster

National Defense Service Medal

Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal

Global War on Terrorism Service Medal

Nuclear Deterrence Operations Medal with “N” device

Air Force Expeditionary Service Ribbon with gold border

 

OTHER ACHIEVEMENTS

2003 Senior Airmen Below-The-Zone Recipient, Misawa Air Base (AB), Japan

2003 Pacific Air Forces Logistics Professional of the Year, Misawa AB, Japan

2004 Pacific Air Forces Logistics Professional of the Year, Misawa AB, Japan

2005 5th Air Force Airman of the Year, Misawa AB, Japan

2005 35th Logistics Readiness Squadron Lance P. Sijan Nominee, Misawa AB, Japan

2014 39th Air Base Wing Lieutenant General Leo Marquez Company Grade Officer of the Year, Incirlik AB, Turkey

2014 39th Air Base Wing Outstanding Munitions Maintenance Company Grade Officer of the Year, Incirlik AB, Turkey

2015 United States Air Force Nuclear Deterrence Operations Company Grade Officer of the Year, Incirlik AB, Turkey

2015 82d Training Wing Lieutenant General Leo Marquez Company Grade Officer of the Year, Sheppard AFB, Texas

2016 82d TW Technical Training Instructor Company Grade Officer of the Year, Sheppard AFB, Texas

2017 82d TW Lieutenant General Leo Marquez Company Grade Officer of the Year, Sheppard AFB, Texas

2018 7th Bomb Wing Lieutenant General Leo Marquez Company Grade Officer of the Year, Dyess AFB, Texas

2018 7th Bomb Wing Outstanding Missile Maintenance Company Grade Officer of the Year, Dyess AFB, Texas

2018 7th Maintenance Group Company Grade Officer of the Year, Dyess AFB, Texas

2019 7th Maintenance Group Field Grade Officer of the Year, Dyess AFB, Texas

 

EFFECTIVE DATES OF PROMOTION

Airman First Class July 13, 2001

Senior Airman May 13, 2003

Staff Sergeant April 1, 2005

Second Lieutenant July. 22, 2009

First Lieutenant July 22, 2011

Captain July 22, 2013

Major, May 1, 2019

 

(Current as of June 2021