CIC vice president selected to serve as Honorary Commander at Barksdale Air Force Base

BOSSIER CITY, La. — Kevin Nolten, Cyber Innovation Center vice president, has been selected to serve as an honorary commander in the Barksdale Air Force Base Honorary Commanders Program.

The United States Air Force developed the Honorary Commanders program to allow community participants to become more aware of the Air Force mission and the mission of the many of squadrons and units. Additionally, the program provides military commanders, and their squadrons, the opportunity to learn more about their local community.

Nolten was inducted Nov. 17 as honorary commander of the 26th Operational Weather Squadron at Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana.

“This selection illustrates the strength of CIC’s partnership with Barksdale Air Force Base,” said Nolten. “Barksdale is committed to promoting and maintaining relationships with our community, and I am proud to be a part of that effort. It is a privilege to serve as honorary commander and celebrate those who serve.”

The 26th Operational Weather Squadron is responsible for producing timely, accurate, and uninterrupted terrestrial and electromagnetic forecasts and planning tools for the Air Force, Space Force, Army, Guard, Reserve, and combatant command forces.

The CIC has a long history supporting the mission of Barksdale Air Force Base. The Collaborative Environment and STRIKEWERX serve as Air Force Global Strike Command’s innovation partner.

Nolten was selected from nominated community leaders who are business leaders, non-federally elected or appointed officials, mayors, chamber of commerce-type group members, principals of local schools, Military Affairs Committee members and others who lead in the community.

The Honorary Commanders Program fosters strong relationships and communication between base commanders and community leaders. The program also educates civic leaders about the Air Force and Barksdale missions. 

Honorary commanders will spend two years with a Barksdale unit to learn about various parts of the base mission and the role the military plays in the nation’s defense.