Texas AFA Chapters Present Awards to 344 Recruiting Squadron

Air & Space Forces Association (AFA) community leaders representing the Sam Johnson Chapter, Northeast Texas (416) Chapter, and the Fort Worth Chapter, presented the AFA Texas Military Organization of the Year Award to the Panthers of the 344th Recruiting Squadron at the group’s change of command ceremony on June 9 in Dallas, Texas. This is the first time the award has been sponsored by multiple chapters, indicating the wide geographical impact the 344th has had on the next generation of the Air Force.

The chapter leaders watched Col. Jonathan Artis transfer command from Lt. Col. Steve LeMaire to Lt. Col. Daniel Hickman in front of squadron members and community supporters. A change of command marks the formal transfer of authority, responsibility, and accountability from one commander to another, honoring the outgoing commander’s service while welcoming the incoming leader.

The award was presented by Col. Bob Gehbauer, USAF (Ret.), vice president of the Sam Johnson Chapter, Chad Chaffee, secretary of the Northeast Texas Chapter (416), and Dave Dietsch, sponsor of the AFA Fort Worth Chapter.

The team also presented the outgoing commander, Lt. Col. Steve LeMaire, with the Texas Medal of Freedom at his going-away celebration for his outstanding efforts to work with AFA during his tenure. Lt. Col. LeMaire has been instrumental in integrating AFA support into recruiting efforts, drawing on programs such as AIMS (AFA Advocates to Inspire Military Service) and AFA community STEM outreach to advance national recruiting goals. LeMaire will now join the 269^th Recruiting Group in San Antonio.

The three North Texas AFA chapters are looking forward to a great continuing relationship with the 344th and their new Commander, Lt. Col. Hickman, and the rest of the Fighting Panthers. The chapter and squadron partnership aids in building an even greater Air Force future.