By: SMSgt Zach Hill – GREENVILLE, Texas – For the second consecutive year, a generous grant from the Air & Space Forces Association (AFA) provided crucial support for the 645th Aeronautical Systems Squadron’s (AESS) annual Christmas party on December 12, 2025. The event brought together 120 squadron members and their families for a well-deserved evening of celebration.
AFA National awarded a $1,000 grant through its United Forces & Families (F2) program to local AFA Chapter 416. The funds were instrumental in offsetting event costs and, most notably, providing complimentary childcare for 15 military families, allowing parents to fully participate in the festivities.
This support is especially meaningful for the 645th AESS, a unit based at the L3Harris plant that oversees contract work on the RC-135 fleet and other critical aircraft. The squadron’s high-tempo mission involves frequent travel, which places considerable demands on its members and their loved ones. Events that foster morale and welfare, like the annual Christmas party, are vital.
“The annual holiday party is our opportunity to pause from the fast and dynamic tempo we operate in all year. We come together to reflect on all the amazing successes over the past year and take a moment to unplug and celebrate with the whole squadron and our families.” Said Lt. Col. Justin Lechner, the 645th AESS Commander. “We are also grateful for the close relationship that we have with the AFA. The work they do around the country is admirable and highly valued.”
Offering a unique perspective, Senior Master Sgt. Zachary Hill, who serves as both the President of AFA Chapter 416 and the Senior Enlisted Leader of the 645th AESS, emphasized the direct benefit of the grant. “Covering the childcare costs for the children of the 15 families made the event that much more enjoyable since parents were at ease knowing their children were being looked after.”
This initiative is a direct reflection of the AFA’s foundational mission to Support Airmen, Guardians, and their families. By alleviating financial burdens and fostering unit cohesion, the grant demonstrates a tangible commitment to the well-being of the Total Air and Space Force Family.
