Friends of McConnell

Mission and Goal
The Friends of McConnell (FOM), an affiliate organization of the Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce, is a support group of area business leaders and residents dedicated to providing meaningful social and economic linkage between senior military leaders and their metropolitan civilian counterparts. The FOM seeks to express community pride and appreciation of the area’s military by providing organizational and financial support for Commander directed programs on base. A primary goal of the Friends of McConnell is to make McConnell AFB the most desirable assignment of an Airman’s career.

History
The Friends of McConnell (FOM) was originally organized in the 1960s when B-47s were based at McConnell. Ten civic leaders stepped forward, each donating $1,000 (anonymously), to an organization they would call “The Friends of McConnell.” The group provided financial support to base programs as requested by base leadership. When the bombers left McConnell and the Missile Wing arrived, the FOM became dormant.

In 1985, the Friends of McConnell was revitalized and expanded. It was suggested that membership be limited to 76, as in the “Spirit of 76.” One hundred invitations were mailed to area business people with the expectation that 76 members would be recruited. The response was so overwhelming that the membership limit was raised to 100. Membership remained at that level for several years.

During the 1990s, the Friends of McConnell’s visibility on base increased and the organization became the commanders’ (active duty, reserve and guard) key link to the area business communities of Wichita and Derby. The Friends of McConnell remains active in supporting activities and programs on base as well as expanding awareness of the area’s military asset to the local region and the state of Kansas. Members enjoy inclusion in base activities, civic leader events, and the satisfaction of knowing their annual dues go entirely to support airmen and their families.

Membership Applications
Individual membership dues are billed annually at the rate of $300, and $250 for retired military and business persons. Annual corporate memberships are available at several levels starting at $500 and ranging upwards to $5,000.

Download the Individual Membership application here.

Download the Corporate Membership application here.

Click here to visit the Friends on McConnell Facebook page.

The Business Community & McConnell

"Involvement in Friends of McConnell has been one of the greatest opportunities, not just in my career, but in my lifetime. Our Airmen are truly amazing and inspiring. Being able to connect with base leadership and throughout MConnell Air Force Base has provided me countless memories and friendships. I am confident that this partnership is mutually beneficial for the Wichita region as well as our service mena nd women who call our area 'home.'" -- Steven Suellentrop, President/CEO, Legacy Bank

Friends of McConnell Investors

Platinum

Gold