Professor Adam “Smash” Smith Visits Lackland Air Force Base as an Honorary Commander
For Professor Adam “Smash” Smith, leadership has always been about service, discipline, and helping people become stronger than they thought possible. Whether coaching athletes on the mats, mentoring students through adversity, or building businesses focused on community, those values have shaped his life’s work.
Recently, those same values led to one of the greatest honors of his life.
As an Honorary Commander with Fairchild Air Force Base, Professor Adam was invited to visit Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland alongside a select group of civic leaders to experience firsthand the training and culture that develops the next generation of United States Airmen.
This is an opportunity very few civilians ever receive.
During the trip, Professor Adam and the other civic leaders toured the base, learned about the mission and operations of the United States Air Force, and witnessed the graduation of Airmen completing basic military training. Watching the transformation of young men and women into disciplined service members was an experience that left a lasting impact.
“As someone who has dedicated my life to coaching and building people, seeing the level of discipline, structure, and teamwork at Lackland was incredible,” Professor Adam said. “You could feel the pride and commitment everywhere you went.”
One of the highlights of the visit was flying aboard a KC-137 aircraft, giving the group a unique perspective into military aviation and operations. For Professor Adam, the experience reinforced the immense responsibility and professionalism carried by those who serve in the Air Force every day.
The trip also included a visit to The Alamo, one of America’s most historic landmarks. Walking through such an important part of American history while surrounded by military leaders and civic representatives added even more meaning to the experience.
For many, the most emotional moment came during the graduation ceremony itself.
Watching families reunite with Airmen after basic training served as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made not only by those who serve, but also by the families who support them. Professor Adam reflected on the importance of mentorship, resilience, and having people believe in you during difficult moments in life.
Throughout his career as a martial arts instructor, former professional fighter, and Washington State Defensive Tactics Instructor, Professor Adam has built his philosophy around helping people grow through challenge. The opportunity to witness the Air Force’s training environment firsthand connected deeply with those beliefs.
“The Air Force builds confidence, discipline, accountability, and leadership,” he said. “Those are the same qualities I try to build in my students every day.”
Being selected as an Honorary Commander with Fairchild Air Force Base represents a significant recognition of Professor Adam’s leadership and impact within the community. The program is designed to strengthen relationships between military leaders and influential civic figures, helping bridge the gap between the armed forces and the communities they serve.
For Professor Adam, the experience was both humbling and inspiring.
“It’s hard to put into words how grateful I am for this opportunity,” he said. “To represent my community in this role and learn directly from the men and women serving our country is something I will never forget.”
From the training grounds at Lackland to the historic walls of the Alamo, the trip served as a reminder of the dedication, sacrifice, and culture of excellence that continues to define the United States Air Force.