Mark Smith Named Honorary Group Commander of CAFB

Columbus, MS - On October 8, 2009 The CPI Group's president, Mark Smith was named Honorary Group Commander for Columbus Air Force Base. Mark has been privileged to serve as the Honorary Commander for the 49^th FTS at CAFB since May 2007 and is excited about being involved in all the training squadrons at CAFB.  Base Commander, Col. Watkins recognized the incoming and outgoing Honorary Commanders at the Business After Hours hosted by CAFB on October 8, 2009. 

Since becoming the Honorary Commander for the 49^th FTS, Mark has been actively involved in the squadron by hosting two annual Buddy Knight gatherings as well as being involved in graduations, Christmas parties, and several other events.  Involvement with CAFB has always been important to Mark since the base is a vital part of the community. Mark is proud to have served in the US Marine Corps and enjoys staying involved in the military and giving back to the men and women at CAFB. There have been many highlights for Mark throughout the past 2 years; one of the main ones has been getting an incentive ride in the T-38 with Lt. Col. Lennon. This allowed Mark to see the training the students go through in the 49^th FTS and the skills they polish to prepare them for their next aircraft.

There have been many great memories and friendships made in the 49^th FTS; this opportunity will allow Mark to learn more about the training operations of CAFB and serve in all of the training squadrons.