Porten Named New Honorary Commander

  • Published
  • By TSgt. Stephen Winn
  • 439th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
WESTOVER AIR RESERVE BASE, Mass. --  A retired president of a major local hospital assumed honorary command of the 439th Airlift Wing during the January A UTA.

Hank Porten, who lives in Holyoke, is taking over from last year's honorary commander, Bud Shuback, president of the Galaxy Community Council.

After nearly 28 years as president and chief executive officer of Holyoke Medical Center and its affiliates, Porten stepped down last summer.

Mr. Porten's educational background includes a bachelor's degree in economics from the University of Illinois, a master's of business administration in finance and management from DePaul University and a post-master's degree in health-care administration from George Washington University.

As President and CEO of the Holyoke Medical Center and Valley Health System Mr. Porten worked hand-in-hand with reservists from Westover participating in periodic disaster drills.

As a corporate sponsor of the Galaxy Community Council for nearly 30 years, Mr. Porten has helped produce many successful air shows at Westover.

"There's a soft spot in my heart for those serving in the armed forces," he said. "The sacrifices and things they do are special, and I'm always willing to do anything I can to assist."

Mr. Porten served eight years in the Army - split between active duty and the reserve time. He was a captain for the in the infantry. He has two other children, one of whom serves at March Air Reserve Base in southern California. The Airman traveled from California to see his father's honor first-hand.

Mr. Porten doesn't take lightly providing a service to the men and women of the Patriot Wing. "It's an honor. I feel humbled that I get to work with the military," he said. "To serve again is the biggest reward I can get."