City of Fairfax Schools Superintendent Dr. Dustin Wright has been selected to serve as an honorary commander with the 11th Wing at Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling in Washington, D.C.
Wright was inducted Sept. 28 as part of the 11th Wing’s Honorary Commander Program, which connects civic and community leaders from across the region with military commanders and units. Wright will serve as the honorary commander for The United States Air Force Band and will be paired with Col. Don Schofield, commander and conductor of the Band.
The program is designed to strengthen relationships between Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling and surrounding communities by giving civilian leaders an opportunity to learn more about the Air Force mission while sharing their own perspectives and experiences.
During the Sept. 28 induction and base immersion, Wright and the other incoming honorary commanders received an overview of JBAB’s mission and its role supporting more than 70 tenant units, defense agencies and operational commands throughout the National Capital Region.
The group was formally inducted by Col. James M. Clark, commander of the 11th Wing and Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling. The day also included demonstrations by the U.S. Air Force Honor Guard Drill Team, a military funeral honors demonstration and a visit to a rehearsal of The United States Air Force Band.
For Wright, who began his career as a middle school music educator, the Band visit held particular significance.
“As a former band director, seeing the Air Force Band rehearse was a highlight, but across the entire immersion, the 11th Wing’s commitment to community partnerships was clear,” Wright said. “I’m excited about what our organizations can build together with the base.”
Honorary commanders typically serve for two to three years and participate in base events, mission briefings, exercises and other opportunities to engage with their assigned military units. The program also encourages participants to share ideas and build connections between the military and the communities and organizations they represent.
For City of Fairfax Schools, Wright said the partnership offers another opportunity to strengthen regional relationships and explore future connections that could benefit students, staff and the broader school community.