Rich Flamand entered the Air Force in 1989 as a jet engine mechanic straight out of high school. He served three assignments as an aircraft maintainer and directly supported OPERATION Desert Storm from the 33rd Tactical Fighter Wing at Eglin AFB. Later, Rich attended ROTC at the University of Central Florida where he graduated as the Distinguished Graduate in 1997 and was assigned as an Aircraft Maintenance Officer which was and remains his passion. Rich’s experience spans 12 total assignments where he served many locations throughout the US as well as NAS Keflavik Iceland, RAF Bentwaters England, and Spangdahlem AB, Germany to name a few. In 2014, as a Lt. Colonel, Rich retired back where he stated at Eglin AFB as the Aircraft Maintenance Squadron Commander where he led over 650 personnel culminating in about 24 years of service to his country.  

Rich is most proud to see his son Easton Flamand follow in his footsteps, attending the same college and ROTC Detachment at the UCF.  Easton graduated in 2024 where Rich proudly commissioned his son as a Lieutenant in the United States Air Force. Easton will continue a family of service to our country as an Air Force Acquisition Officer currently stationed at Maxwell AFB, AL. 

He grew up in Pittsburgh, PA and is a dedicated Steeler, Penguins and Pirates fan. 

Frank earned his Project Management Masters degree and Bachelor's of Electronics Engineering and worked at Nortel Networks in Chapel Hill, NC and Atlanta, GA. 

He is married to Jill Johnston of 45 years and has a son Frank Johnston III and Daughter Heather Mantia. They have 3 granddaughters Eliana, Sophie, and Mila Mantia. 

Frank loves to travel, watch sports and TV.