The Honorary Commander Program for 2026 at Dover Air Force Base will include Sara Bluhm, Executive Director of the Sussex County Land Trust. Bluhm was formally inducted during a ceremony on March 24, 2026, alongside 35 fellow community leaders from across the region.
Bluhm has been paired with Colonel Brian Ellis, Commander of the 436th Mission Support Group (MSG), a key component of the 436th Airlift Wing. The Honorary Commander Program fosters meaningful partnerships between military leaders and civic professionals through immersive experiences that provide insight into the Air Force mission and operations at Dover AFB.
As part of orientation, Bluhm toured cargo processing facilities and gained a behind-the-scenes look at the base’s global operations, including the opportunity to step aboard a C-17 Globemaster III aircraft.
“Seeing firsthand the scale and complexity of operations at Dover Air Force Base was incredibly eye-opening,” said Bluhm. “While many people are familiar with the solemn and important work of the Air Force Mortuary Affairs Operations, I was struck by the immense global impact of this base—from transporting critical supplies to supporting missions across Europe and the Middle East. The professionalism, pride, and dedication of the Airmen here is truly inspiring.”
Colonel Ellis and his team expressed enthusiasm about the partnerships fostered by the Honorary Commander program, noting their interest in learning more about the Sussex County Land Trust and its impact across the region.
Dover Air Force Base serves as a critical hub for global airlift operations, supporting U.S. military missions around the world. The Honorary Commander Program provides participants with a deeper understanding of these operations while strengthening connections between Team Dover and the communities they serve.
“I’m honored to be part of this program and look forward to building a strong relationship with Colonel Ellis and the Mission Support Group,” Bluhm added. “This experience will deepen my appreciation for the work being done at Dover and strengthen the connection between our military and the broader Delaware community.”
Bluhm brings extensive experience in community leadership and nonprofit management to the program. As Executive Director of the Sussex County Land Trust, she leads efforts to preserve open space and natural resources across Sussex County, while also serving as Executive Director of the Delaware Diabetes Coalition.
This year’s members of the Honorary Commander program are scheduled for several base immersions, including an orientation flight, and are slated to graduate in January of 2027.
The Sussex County Land Trust (SCLT) is a nonprofit conservation organization dedicated to protecting natural, agricultural, cultural, and recreational resources in Sussex County, Delaware. Established in 2001, the Trust works to preserve open space and create a countywide network of parks and preserves that provide public access, support passive recreation, and promote environmental education. Through strategic partnerships, land acquisitions, and community engagement, SCLT is committed to safeguarding the county’s unique landscapes for current and future generations. For more information, find them online.
