Aviation Management Team
The Freeman Holdings Group prides itself on serving the aviation departments of the United States armed forces. The upper management team at many of our locations are veterans themselves. We use these years of experience as an asset for our locations to create extraordinary customer experiences for our service men and women. Click on a name below to read a short bio on any member of our Aviation Services management team.
Headquarters
Owner
Francis B. “Chris” Freeman, Jr.
Chief Executive Officer
Scott Freeman
Chief Operating Officer
Carl F. Ernst
Chief Financial Officer
Mike Meurer
General Counsel
Reese Hays
Director of Safety and Standards
Joe Keith
Owner
Francis B. “Chris” Freeman, Jr.
Francis B. Freeman, Jr. (“Chris Freeman”) is the managing member of each of the limited liability companies that make up the Freeman Holdings Group.
Not content to increase the volume of traffic and profitability of his Million Air franchises, Chris has also worked to assist the local airport authorities in raising those airports’ image throughout the local and aviation communities. All of these goals have been achieved as a result of Mr. Freeman’s hands on work at each of his facilities, and through the personal relationships which he has established with many of the members of each local airport authority board. As of result of these fruitful relationships the goals and objectives of the communities, airports, private business, and military services have been achieved.
Chief Executive Officer
Scott Freeman
Scott Freeman, Chief Executive Officer, has been involved in various aspects of the Freeman Holdings Group portfolio of assets for over 20 years. After graduating from the University of Kansas in 1995 with a degree in Business Communications, Scott started his career in the aviation industry by assuming the General Manager position at the Company owned FBO, Million Air Kansas City, which was located at the Richard-Gebaur Airport.
After his initial employment in the FBO space, Scott went on to own, operate and develop a myriad of business enterprises within the Freeman Holdings Group portfolio in five primary areas: Aviation, Hospitality, Gaming, Real Estate Development & Post-Secondary Education. It is the diversity of those industries that Scott says helped shape his management style and provided him with the experience necessary to successfully lead the Freeman Holdings Group as its Chief Executive Officer.
Scott’s initial passion was aviation and that passion is alive and well today. Scott is closely involved with all aspects of the operations of the FBOs, traveling to each location on a regular basis. He works closely with the COO & CFO on everything from polices & procedures to monthly financial review calls with each FBO General Manager.
Scott also focuses on the development of new FBO locations by monitoring airports nationwide for potential market opportunities to grow the Freeman Holdings Group / Million Air network and Brand.
Chief Operating Officer
Carl F. Ernst
The Chief Operating Officer of the companies of the Freeman Holdings Group is Major General Carl F. Ernst, U.S. Army, retired. During his 33 year career, General Ernst served as Commanding General of Fort Benning, as well as The Assistant Commandant of the Infantry School/ Deputy Commanding General of Fort Benning; Commander, Joint Task Force Somalia; Deputy Chief of Staff for Training, Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC), Fort Monroe, Virginia; Assistant Division Commander, 82nd Airborne Division, Fort Bragg, North Carolina, including Commander, Task Force All American for Hurricane Andrew rescue, relief and recovery operations. He also served as Deputy G3 and OIC of Third Army Forward Command Post for Operation Desert Storm and the Restoration of Kuwait; Commander of the Battle Command Training Program (BCTP) at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas; Commander of the 2nd Brigade, 5th Infantry Division (Mechanized) at Fort Polk, Louisiana; Commander, 3rd Battalion (Mechanized), 10th Infantry, 5th Infantry Division; Commander C Company, 3D US Infantry (The Old Guard); and 25Th Long Range Reconnaissance Company (Vietnam).
General Ernst has extensive conventional and special operations experience including combat tours in Vietnam, Southwest Asia and Somalia as well as substantial involvement in peacekeeping, disaster and humanitarian relief operations in the United States and the Balkans. He is a Combat Infantryman, Ranger and Master Parachutist with two purple hearts and three decorations for valor.
Under General Ernst’s leadership Fort Benning won four Malcomb Baldridge criteria awards for excellence, including The Presidents Quality Award as the best managed large organization in the federal government.
General Ernst holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Louisiana State University and a Master of Arts in Public Administration from Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania. He has also authored several published articles and studies.
Chief Financial Officer
Mike Meurer
Mike has been with the Freeman Holdings Group since March 2013. He graduated from Rockhurst University in Kansas City, Missouri with a degree in Business Administration. After college, Mike joined Arthur Andersen where he became a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in Kansas and Missouri and spent the first 9 years of his career in the Audit and Business Advisory section of the profession. In his last year at Arthur Andersen, he worked with the consulting group on a large Information Technology project at a Fortune 500 company in Kansas City.
Throughout Mike’s career, he has gravitated to the medium-sized, growth oriented companies and obtained a wealth of knowledge on process improvements, growth strategies, risk analysis and Information Technology system implementation. His audit clients at Arthur Andersen were primarily the small to medium entrepreneurial, growth-minded companies located within Kansas City. After Arthur Andersen, Mike was with various small to medium sized companies located within Kansas City providing Accounting and Administrative leadership roles and responsibilities. including Information Technology, Human Resources, and external relationships with Banks, Vendors and Customers. He has played an integral role in over a dozen acquisitions in his career where he has to strategically and successfully integrate business, accounting and administration processes and cultures of companies into a common goal.
Mike is also active in the community and holds or has held numerous positions outside of work, including Chair of his parish’s finance council; Board positions on Associations; former Treasurer for the Big XII Host Committee in Kansas City; and former President of the Mid-America Merchandising Association (regional industry group).
General Counsel
Reese Hays
Reese Hays is the General Counsel for Freeman Holdings Group. Reese obtained his law degree from Washburn School of Law in Topeka, Kansas, and is a member of the Bar for the State of Kansas, United States District Court of Kansas, Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces, and the Air Force Court of Criminal Appeals.
Upon attaining his law degree and admission to the Kansas Bar, Reese was selected to become a Judge Advocate in the United States Air Force. Reese’s first duty assignment was to Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama, where he served as an Assistant Staff Judge Advocate. While stationed there, he was selected for a prestigious one-year deployment to Joint Task Force 134, Bagdad, Iraq, where he mentored Iraqi Investigative Judges and Iraqi Trial judges in the prosecution of terrorists within the Iraqi Criminal Justice System. Additionally, while in Iraq, Reese stood up and oversaw a new unit that was given the responsibility of ensuring actionable evidence was obtained to garner the successful prosecution of the most dangerous terrorists detained by the Coalition Forces within the Iraqi criminal justice system. When Reese returned from his deployment in Iraq, he was assigned to Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska, where he was appointed as the Area Defense Counsel. As the Area Defense Counsel he represented Airmen stationed at Offutt AFB who had been accused of criminal and/or administrative actions.
In 2011, Reese transferred from Active Duty with the Air Force into the Kansas Air National Guard. Since that time, he has been assigned as a Judge Advocate to the 190th Air Refueling Wing Staff Judge Advocate’s office.
In that position, he is responsible to provide legal advice to the commanders of the 190th Air Refueling Wing and their subordinates. Reese currently holds the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. While a Kansas Air National Guardsman, Reese has been performed several extended periods of active duty to include a deployment to 1st Air Force (Air Forces North) and Continental North American Aerospace Defense Command Region, Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida, as an activated Title 10 Air National Guardsman in support of Operation Nobel Eagle and Continental U.S. NORAD Region.
During Reese’s military career he has been awarded the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal with the First Oak Leaf Cluster, Air Force Commendation Medal with the First Oak Leaf Cluster, Navy Achievement Medal, and the Iraq Campaign Medal.
In addition to Reese’s military service, Reese has held several supervisory attorney positions during the eight years he spent as attorney for the Kansas State Board of Healing Arts. As an attorney for the Board, he was responsible for supervising and serving as lead counsel in the effective prosecution of all licensing actions taken against healthcarelicensees who are regulated by the Kansas State Board of Healing Arts.
Director of Safety and Standards
Joe Keith
Joe Keith is the Director of Safety and Standards for Freeman Holdings Group.
He enlisted in the Navy in 1979 where he was an S-3A aircrewman. He achieved the rank of Chief Petty Officer and then was selected to attend Aviation Officer Candidate School in Pensacola FL. Joe was winged as a Naval Aviator in Kingsville, TX in 1991. He returned to the S-3A/B community as a pilot where he completed over 500 carrier landings. Joe was a Landings Signals Officer (LSO) and had landing grades placing him in the top eleven of all pilots in Carrier Air Wing Eleven during Operation Southern Watch 1995. During his military career Joe had an extensive background in training and standardization and was selected as instructor pilot of the year in 1998.
After 20 years of active duty service Joe retired at the rank of LT and began a career in civilian aviation. He holds an Airline Transport Rating and a Lear Jet type rating. Joe has a Bachelor of Science degree in Aviation Management and completed Master Financial Coach training with Dave Ramsey. He has held positions as Chief Pilot, Director of Operations and was the General Manager of Superior Air Center and Million Air Medford from 2003 – 2020. Joe was proud to lead the Million Air Medford team to be selected as the Top Million Air Worldwide in 2008.
Chief Executive Officer
Chief Operating Officer
Chief Financial Officer
General Counsel
General Counsel
Director of Safety and Standards
Dani Olson
Marketing Coordinator
East Locations
East Regional Vice President
David Turner
KAEX & KESF General Manager
Joe Brocato
KARA General Manager
Ross Gary
KCWF General Manager
Robert Stanford
KFOE General Manager
Kyle Rohr
KHSA General Manager
Raoul Boughton
KLCH General Manager
Duncan Smith
KRME General Manager
Steve Ingerick
KSFB General Manager
Greg Smith
KSYR General Manager
Chris Mullin
East Regional Vice President
David Turner
Originally from Amory, Mississippi, David Turner received a Bachelor of Engineering from the University of Mississippi and was commissioned in the United States Marine Corps in May 1992.
Starting his military career as an Artillery Officer, David completed two overseas deployments, serving as Headquarters Platoon Commander and Battery Executive Officer before transitioning into Marine Aviation.
After completing flight training in March 1999, David served as Airframes Division Officer, Logistics Officer, Safety and Standardizations Officer and Operations Officer during four additional overseas deployments, while executing combat missions in support of NATO Operation Allied Force, Operation Joint Guardian, Operation Noble Anvil, Operation Southern Watch and Operation Iraqi Freedom.
In 2006, David served as the Deputy Chief, Training Division and the Deputy Officer in Charge at the National Training Center, Fort Irwin, California, during a two-year joint services tour with the Joint Improvised Explosive Device Defeat Organization. With more than 2,400 mishap-free flight hours, primarily in the F/A-18D Hornet, David retired from the Marine Corps with 20 years of active duty service.
After military retirement in 2012, David Turner joined the Freeman Holdings Group team as the General Manager of Million Air Stennis at Stennis International Airport – located approximately eight miles northwest of Bay St. Louis, Mississippi.
For almost 10 years, David lead the Million Air team at Stennis, developing and maturing his understanding of the FBO business, the customer service industry, human resource management, marketing, networking and relations within the aviation community. In the fall of 2021, David assumed the role of East Regional Vice President with Freeman Holdings Group providing leadership and management of multiple FBO in the Eastern United States Region.
KAEX & KESF General Manager
Joe Brocato
Originally from Alexandria Louisiana, Joe Brocato enlisted in the United States Army in 1989 as a helicopter mechanic. He received a Bachelors in Aviation Management and Construction Management from Northeast Louisiana University and was commissioned through the Army ROTC program as a Second Lieutenant in May 1991.
Starting his military career as an Army Aviation Officer, Joe was Distinguished Graduate of the US Army Flight School at Fort Rucker and became a full-time member of the Louisiana Army National Guard where he served for over 32 years.
After completing flight training in march 1993, Joe has held numerous key command and staff assignments over the duration of his military career. Joe’s assignments include Assault Company Commander, Assault Battalion Operations Officer, MEDVAC Company Commander, Theater Aviation Operations Group Executive Officer, Aviation Battalion Commander, Army Aviation Support Facility Commander, and Garrison Commander. Joe has had several deployments including two combat deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. Joe is qualified in the UH-1 (Huey), OH-58 (Kiowa), EC-145 (Lakota), and the UH-60 (Blackhawk) helicopters. Joe is also a qualified Standardization Instructor Pilot in the Lakota and Blackhawk helicopters.
Joe received a Master’s of Strategic Studies from the US Amy War College in 2016 and retired as a Colonel from the US Army in 2021. Upon his retirement, Joe joined the Million Air team.
KARA General Manager
Ross Gary
Ross Gary, a retired Master Sergeant brings more than three decades of distinguished service and leadership to his role as General Manager of Freeman Jet Center Acadiana. Born and raised in New Iberia, Louisiana, Ross returned to his hometown after a 31-year career in the Louisiana Army National Guard.
Ross began his military journey in May 1994 with Company B, 2-156th Infantry (Mechanized) in New Iberia. His leadership responsibilities took shape in 1998 as Assistant S3 Non-Commissioned Officer with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2-156th Infantry Battalion. After eight years as a part-time Soldier, Ross transitioned to a full-time active-duty career, ultimately serving 24 years in senior assignments. He led at the battalion, brigade, and state headquarters levels, culminating as Senior Human Resources Sergeant for the Joint Forces Headquarters Louisiana.
His service record includes two combat tours in Iraq with the 256th Infantry Brigade Combat Team during Operation Iraqi Freedom, and a deployment to Kuwait with the 225th EN BDE as the Theatre Engineer Brigade in Operation Enduring Freedom. Ross also participated in multiple large-scale training exercises, including two National Training Center rotations in Fort Irwin, California, two in Hohenfels, Germany, and numerous Joint Readiness Training Center missions at Fort Polk, Louisiana. He has supported more than twenty emergency preparedness operations and served internationally as a trainer and advisor to the Belize Defence Force.
Throughout his career, Ross has been recognized for his dedication and expertise, earning the Combat Infantryman Badge and the prestigious Order of Saint Maurice Medal. He is a graduate of every level of Non-Commissioned Officer education, including the Sergeants Major Academy at the NCO Leadership Center of Excellence. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Human Resources Management and an Undergraduate Certificate in Leadership and Workforce Development from the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College.
A committed servant leader, Ross fosters team cohesion, mentorship, and operational excellence. At Freeman Holdings Group, he is dedicated to upholding the company’s high customer service standards while leveraging his leadership and organizational skills to drive success.
KCWF General Manager
Robert Stanford
Rob Stanford joined the Freeman Holdings Group team in January 2025 as the General Manager of Million Air – Lake Charles. Rob comes to Million Air from Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana where he served as the Physical Security and Safety Manager.
Rob is also a retired Marine. He served in the Marine Corps for 23 years as a Military Police Officer. During his time as an active Marine, he served in a variety of command and staff assignments where he conducted numerous operational deployments and exercises serving in both law enforcement and antiterrorism capacities. Prior to becoming a Marine, Rob enlisted in the Iowa Army National Guard as a Military Policeman.
Since retiring from the Marine Corps in 2012, Rob has served in a variety of Antiterrorism/Force Protection, Law Enforcement, Mission Assurance, Emergency Management, and security positions. He performed duties as the Chief, Law Enforcement Division, Office of the Provost Marshal General, Headquarters, Department of the Army, he managed operations for the U.S Navy’s antiterrorism program where he coordinated the development of emergency management systems and manufacturing prefabricated portable armories and magazines for the U.S. Government.
He supported the Joint Staff where he trained security professionals to conduct vulnerability assessments and he led the development of the Mission Assurance Concept of Operations, and he developed Law Enforcement classes for the Marine Corps Military Police Officer Basic and Law Enforcement Executive Courses. Additionally, Mr. Stanford worked for the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) Red Team as a project lead.
Rob earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Sociology, with an emphasis in Criminal Justice from Drake University and a Master of Military Studies from Marine Corps University. He is a graduate of the U. S. Air Force Security Officer Basic Course, Marine Corps Amphibious Warfare School, US Army MP Captains Career Course, Command and Staff College, Joint Forces Staff College, FBI National Academy, and the FBI Law Enforcement Executive Development Course.
KFOE General Manager
Kyle Rohr
Kyle Rohr brings over three decades of diverse experience across public service, manufacturing, technical project coordination, and facility maintenance to Million Air Topeka. He began his career with the State of Kansas, serving in various leadership roles within the Department of Corrections for over 30 years, including Superintendent. During this time, he also contributed internationally as a Corrections Advisor in Iraq, helping develop training programs for Iraqi correctional personnel.
Following his retirement from public service, Kyle transitioned into private industry roles, including Site Technical Project Coordinator and Customer Service Technician where he managed the installation and maintenance of automated pharmaceutical machinery. He also held technical roles in agricultural management, validation engineering, and facilities maintenance, consistently applying his problem-solving skills and mechanical aptitude.
A proud United States Army veteran, Kyle served in the Army Reserve for 20 years retiring as a sergeant first class. He was deployed to Baghdad during Operation Iraqi Freedom where he served as a bulk fuel hauler for the warfighters in the theater of Baghdad.
He holds a Bachelor of Science in Human Resource Management, an Associate of Applied Science in Administration of Justice, and certifications in Public Management and Commercial Driving.
Kyle and his wife, Desiree, own a small farm with cows, chickens, dogs and plenty of machinery to tinker with. They have two adult daughters, Ashleigh and Kyrsten, and two grandchildren, Quinton and Elanor.
KHSA General Manager
Raoul Boughton
Raoul Boughton, a proud Hancock County native, graduated from Hancock High School; which is right across the street from Stennis International Airport.
Raoul’s aviation journey began in 2013 when he joined Million Air Stennis as a Line Service Professional while still in college pursuing a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Southern Mississippi. Although aviation wasn’t his initial career goal, Raoul quickly discovered his passion for the industry, particularly while working under the leadership of Freeman Holdings Group. His dedication and drive soon earned him the position of Senior Shift Leader at Million Air Stennis.
Not one to limit his ambitions, Raoul ventured into entrepreneurship, opening Rah’s Gym in 2017, where he channeled his passion for fitness. After successfully running the business for six years, he sold it in 2023 to dedicate more time to his family and focus on advancing his aviation career.
In 2020, Raoul took on the role of FBO Manager with Southern Sky Aviation, located at Trent Lott International Airport, further honing his leadership skills. However, his heart remained at Stennis International Airport, and in 2022, he returned as the Airport Operations Manager for the Airport Authority.
This return marked a significant step toward his ultimate goal of becoming the General Manager at Million Air Stennis, something he had envisioned since first joining the Million Air family. To further culminate his knowledge of the industry, Raoul received his Master of Commercial Aviation from Delta State University in 2024.
Today, Raoul is thrilled to lead as the new General Manager at Million Air Stennis, where it all began. Supported by his wife, Katelyn, and their two children, Ryker and Gemma, Raoul is excited to bring his wealth of experience, passion, and dedication to the team, guiding Million Air Stennis to new heights.
KLCH General Manager
Duncan Smith
Originally from Sulphur Louisiana, Duncan Smith started his military career by enlisting in the United States Marine Corps Reserve in 1987. While studying at LSU, he was activated into the United States Marine Corps and participated in both Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. Once he completed his active-duty commitment, Duncan returned to LSU to graduate in December 1992.
Upon his graduation from LSU, Duncan was commissioned as a 2nd Lt. in the United States Marine Corps and was selected for Naval Aviation Training at Whiting Field. After receiving his pilot wings, he was assigned to HMLA-269 in New River, North Carolina to fly the UH-1N. He served as Airframes Division Officer, and NATOPS Standardization Officer. After numerous deployments with the “Gun Runners”, Duncan was assigned to VT-10 in Pensacola, Florida to train future Naval Flight Officers. He served as Safety and NATOPS Standardization Officer.
During his tenure with the VT-10 “Wildcats”, Duncan was granted an interservice transfer from the United States Marine Corps to the United States Air Force. Once the transfer was complete, he was assigned to Dover AFB, DE to fly the C-5 Galaxy in support of Military troops in both OIF and OEF. He was appointed as Safety and Standardization Officer and Operations Officer.
After 15+ years in the cockpit, Duncan was assigned to 618th TACC where he was assigned as Chief of Mission Planning for all OIF/OEF aviation assets and culminated his assignment as Chief of Aeromedical Evacuation moving wounded warriors from OIF/OEF to critical care facilities.
Finally, Duncan was assigned to 608 AOC, Strategy Division Chief, where he was responsible for shaping component commander strategy to meet combatant commander intent within USSTRATCOM.
With more than 10,500 mishap-free flight hours, in 7 different aircraft, Duncan Smith retired from the United States Air Force with 26 years of active-duty service. Duncan joined Freeman Jet Center Lake Charles after 10+ years of pipeline and civil construction, most recently with D&G Construction where he was the Operations Manager.
KRME General Manager
Steve Ingerick
Steve Ingerick is the General Manager for Million Air Rome, New York at Griffiss International (KRME). Retired Master Sergeant, Steve has over forty years of aviation experience. Twenty years in the United States Air Force as a B-52 Instructor/ Evaluator Aerial Gunner and a KC-135 Instructor In-flight refueling Specialist. Military education includes the NCO Leadership School, NCO Academy, Senior NCO Academy and community college on the United States Air Force. While serving, Steve’s awards of decoration include Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal, Aerial Achievement Medal, Commendation Medal and Air Force Achievement Medal. Steve served in Desert Shield, Desert Storm, and Northern Iraq No Fly Zone. Steve has flown more than 5,000 total flight hours, to include over 200 hours of combat time.
After retirement, Steve continued in the aviation field and has over twenty years in Fixed Based Operations. He spent thirteen of those years in Syracuse, where he was the Line Service Manager for nine of those years. Prior to his promotion to General Manager at KRME, he was the Line Service Manager at that location for 8 years.
KSFB General Manager
Greg Smith
Greg Smith recently retired from the U.S. Navy after 28 years of service. He possesses a vast amount of experience in leadership, operations and project management.
His last assignment was the Commander, Navy Region Southeast Reserve Component Command, Naval Air Station, Jacksonville. The highlight of his career was his command tours and working with the greatest Sailors and Department of the Navy civilian employees around the world in a variety of sea and shore assignments.
Greg graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1985 and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Resources Management. He holds a Masters of Business concentrated in Operations from Auburn University. He is a fitness enthusiast and lives in Oviedo, FL.
KSYR General Manager
Chris Mullin
A native of Franklin, Massachusetts, Chris Mullin graduated from Providence College with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English in 1984 and was commissioned in the United States Marine Corps. He began his Marine Corps Aviation career as an Aircraft Maintenance Officer, serving as a squadron Maintenance/ Material Control Officer, until reporting to Naval Flight Officer training in 1988.
Receiving his wings in February 1990, he went on to amass over 2600 Mishap Free Flight hours, 400 of which were flown in combat during Operations Desert Shield/ Desert Storm, Southern Watch, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom. Over the course of his twenty-six year flying career, he logged time in the OA-4M Skyhawk, the OV-10A/D Bronco, the UH-1N Huey, the AH-1W Cobra and finally, the F/A-18D Hornet Strike/Fighter, accumulating over 1500 of his total flight hours in this aircraft.
His various operational assignments included tours at the Squadron and Group Level as the Administration Officer, Logistics Officer, Airframes Division Officer, Quality Assurance Officer, Assistant Aircraft Maintenance Officer, Safety and Standardization Officer, Weapons and Tactics Instructor, Operations Officer, Executive Officer and, ultimately, Squadron Commanding Officer. He was also a designated Forward Air Controller, serving as an Infantry Battalion Air Officer. His staff assignments included postings as the I MEF, PACOM Target Information Officer; G-3, Deputy Operations Officer, MCBH Kaneohe Bay; G-3, Operations Officer, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing; Chief of Staff, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward); and concluded his career as a Military Professor at the United States Naval War College, in Newport, Rhode Island.
Retiring in October 2013 as a Colonel after 29 years Active Duty, he spent the next five years as the Director of Willow Run Airport with the Wayne County Airport Authority, in Detroit, Michigan where he became a Certified Member of the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE). He joined the Freeman Holdings Group in February 2025.
East Regional Vice President
KAEX & KESF General Manager
KARA General Manager
KCWF General Manager
KFOE General Manager
KHSA General Manager
KLCH General Manager
KRME General Manager
KSFB General Manager
KSYR General Manager
West Locations
West Regional Vice President
Walt Frederick
KABI General Manager
Lynn Beard
KLBB General Manager
Richard Casler
KNYL General Manager
Ryan Hart
KMFR General Manager
Shane Hickman
KMWH General Manager
Mark Bonaudi
KPUB General Manager
Todd Engel
KRIV General Manager
Sammy Desopo
KSGU General Manager
Amanda Zundel
KVCV General Manager
Gil Thomas
PHJR General Manager
Ronny German
West Regional Vice President
Walt Frederick
Walt Frederick has been employed by Million Air for over 14 years. He has been responsible for aspects of managing and leading in a well-known aviation services company, providing exemplary services to the general aviation, corporate, military, and the airline industry. He has managed six different Million Air FBOs since his employment with Freeman Holdings Group.
Million Air provides world-class aviation services to the airline industry, general aviation, corporate executives, the United States Military, ad hoc public charters and National Collegiate Athletic Association sports teams. He has been responsible for taking care of aircraft for foreign heads of state, the First Lady and many candidates for U.S. President. Mr. Frederick’s scope of responsibility prior to his current position was the General Manager for Million Air in Topeka, Kansas.
Prior to working for Million Air, Mr. Frederick was served for nearly 30 years in the Kansas Army National Guard in various positions, to include State Army Aviation Officer, Personnel Officer, Chief Information Officer and Chief of Staff for the 35th Infantry Division. Mr. Frederick retired with the rank of Colonel in 2008. He is qualified in the UH-1H, UH-60 and CH-54A helicopters. He spent many years in army aviation units in positions such as pilot and operations officer. He commanded two different aviation companies as well as a battalion commander. His last aviation position was the State Army Aviation Officer who had ultimate responsibility for all Army Aviation throughout the Kansas Army National Guard.
Mr. Frederick was inducted in the Officer Candidate School Hall of Fame, Fort Benning, Georgia, and was inducted into The Honorable Order of Saint Michael in 2013. Airlift/Tanker Association, and the Army Aviation Association of America.
For several years he was a Commissioner with the City of Topeka for their Civil Service Commission. His responsibility is to interview potential candidates, review their applications, and backgrounds for sworn officer positions with the Topeka Police and Topeka Fire Departments. Mr. Frederick is the vice chairman for the Kansas Aviation Advisory & Review Committee, a volunteer organization of the Kansas Department of Transportation. The committee provides advice to the Secretary of Transportation and the Director of Aviation. He is a State Chairman Emeritus for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, a two star flag officer equivalent position of the Department of Defense. Mr. Frederick has a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Liberal Arts from Excelsior College, as well as a Master’s of Science in Management from Baker University and a Master’s of Strategic Studies from the United States Army War College. He is also a graduate of the Executive Leadership Certificate Program at Cornell University.
KABI General Manager
Lynn Beard
Lynn Beard came to Freeman Jet Center through the acquisition of Abilene Aero in 2025. Lynn was the General Manager of Abilene Aero for six years. Lynn was born to a farming and ranching family in Stillwater, Oklahoma where he lived until his family moved to Abilene, Texas when he was 12 years old. Lynn established deep roots in Abilene over the years and continues to serve his community in a variety of ways.
In 1998, Lynn joined the Abilene Police Department and during his twenty-year career served as a patrol officer, detective, bomb technician, sergeant, lieutenant, and patrol commander. His ancillary assignments included Internal Affairs Investigator, Legislative Team, and Police Instructor. During his career he received nine letters of commendation, the Meritorious Conduct Medal, Police Commendation Bar, and was a Master Marksman.
As a community volunteer, Lynn served as the Board President for the Regional Victims Crisis Center and as a board member for the Ben Richey Boy’s Ranch. He also volunteered as a Command Pilot for Angel Flight South Central, the Editorial Board for the Abilene Reporter News, and the Chairman of the Abilene Police Officers’ Association Political Action Committee.
Lynn is a graduate of the Law Enforcement Command Institute of Texas (LEMIT)-Leadership Command College (LCC) and is a Certified Texas State Public Manager. In 2021, Lynn was elected to the Abilene City Council, Place 2, and was re-elected in 2024.
Lynn also serves in his local church, Beltway Park, as a speaker, teacher, group facilitator, and small group leader. He became an elder in 2018.
Lynn loves to fly and his wife, Melinda, encouraged him to finish testing for his pilot’s license in 2012. He now holds a Commercial Pilot’s License with Instrument Rating. They have three married children (Meagan, Savoy, and Lane) and one grandchild (Morgan). He also assists his father in the raising and training of Belgian draft horses, is an amateur photographer, certified scuba diver, plays the guitar and is an avid reader.
KLBB General Manager
Richard Casler
Richard Casler began his career in Aviation at The Cessna Aircraft Company February 1976. During his nearly 11 years there he held several different positions and had the opportunity to live in many parts of the country. Beginning in Wichita, KS then to Albuquerque, NM, Lubbock, TX, Salt Lake City, UT, Santa Maria, CA, Cameron Park, CA and back to Wichita. Starting in Parts as Return Goods Coordinator, he moved to Sales Scheduling assuring all aircraft were built and delivered to specs. He later became a Cessna Pilot Center Specialist, selling the Cessna flight training program and assisting with implementation at the flight schools. Casler finished his career in the late 80’s as a District Sales Manager for Single Engine Propellor Aircraft.
After leaving Cessna he moved back to his home town of Abilene, TX. where he teamed up with Joe Crawford at Abilene Aero as the Aircraft Sales Manager. After a couple of years an opportunity arose in Lubbock, TX and Abilene Aero purchased Texas Air Center, rebranded as Lubbock Aero where Casler became General Manager and later Vice President, the position held when joining the FHG team.
He is married to wife Lauri now for 24 years has two grown children, Amanda of San Angelo, TX and Chris of Tokyo, Japan along with 2 grandchildren He enjoys fishing, golf, travel and spending time with family and friends.
KNYL General Manager
Ryan Hart
Ryan joined the Freeman Holdings team in December 2020 as General Manager of Million Air Yuma, tasked with providing world-class service and support to general, corporate, military, and commercial aviation throughout the southwest region.
Ryan retired from active duty as a Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Marine Corps in August 2020 after more than 22 years of service. As an Aircraft Maintenance Officer, Ryan served in operational billets at a Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron, several Marine Aviation Logistics Squadrons, and a Marine Expeditionary Unit. He has served in staff billets at the Marine Aircraft Group, Marine Aircraft Wing, and Combatant Command levels. Ryan’s career culminated as the Commanding Officer of Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 13 in Yuma, AZ, followed by his selection as a Secretary of Defense Executive Fellow assigned to Arizona Public Service. Ryan has deployed to Okinawa, Japan in 2001 as a part of the Unit Deployment Program; Ali Al Saleem, Kuwait in 2003 in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom; and Kandahar, Afghanistan in 2008 in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.
Ryan earned his undergraduate degree from the University of California, Berkeley, is a graduate of the Marine Corps’ Top Level School, and holds a Master of Business Administration from Florida Institute of Technology.
KMFR General Manager
Shane Hickman
Shane joined Freeman Holdings Group in February 2020 as the General Manager of Million Air Medford, based in Medford, Oregon. With over 24 years of service in the United States Air Force, he retired, holding the rank of Chief Master Sergeant.
Shane began his military career as an Aircraft Armament Specialist before retraining as an enlisted aviator. He primarily served as a KC-10A Instructor and evaluator Inflight Refueling Operator (Boom Operator) and a C-130 E/H Flight Engineer, achieving more than 3,800 mishap-free flight hours. Shane has held several leadership positions, most recently serving as Operations Group Superintendent for the 60th Operations Group at Travis AFB, California, and the 341st Operations Group at Malmstrom AFB, Montana. His deployment experiences include supporting NATO operations in Italy and multiple missions to Southwest Asia during Operations ENDURING FREEDOM, IRAQI FREEDOM, and INHERENT RESOLVE.
Shane has completed numerous military education programs dedicated to professional development, including the AMC Chiefs Leadership Course, USAF Chiefs Leadership Course, and the Senior Enlisted Joint Professional Military Education Courses I and II. He also holds an associate’s degree in aviation operations and information systems management and a bachelor’s degree in organizational management from the University of Arizona. He is currently working towards his Master of Business Administration (MBA).
Shane is passionate about fostering team collaboration and mentorship, reflecting his commitment to servant leadership. He looks forward to applying his extensive background and insights to uphold Freeman Holdings Group’s high standards of service excellence.
KMWH General Manager
Mark Bonaudi
Mark Bonaudi joined Freeman Holdings in April 2023 as the General Manager of Million Air in Moses Lake, Washington at the Grant County International Airport (KMWH). Mark comes to Million Air after more than 20 years in the United States Army as a signal and acquisitions officer. He retired with the rank of Major in 2022. He holds a MBA, a Masters of Military Operational Art and Science from the USAF Air University, and a BA in Organizational Management from Northwest University.
Mark enlisted in the Army on 16 September 2001 as a SATCOM technician, promoted through the ranks, and culminated his enlisted service as a Sergeant First Class. He attended Officer Candidate School in Fort Benning, Georgia and commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Army Signal Corps in July of 2009. Mark transitioned to the Army Acquisition Corps prior to retirement learning the DoD acquisition and contracting trade and managed a multi-million dollar telecommunication project in the Republic of Korea. While serving, Mark had the distinct honor to attend the Marine Corps Expeditionary Warfare School as well as the Air Force Air Command and Staff College.
Mark is an outdoor enthusiast and an avid participant in all things CrossFit. He is a product of outstanding leadership and embodies servant leadership in all areas of his life. His passion is building relationships, networking, and helping people and teams become successful. Mark is excited to be part of Freeman Holdings and is eager to use his lifelong skills and experiences to continue the legacy of excellence and outrageous customer service with the team.
KPUB General Manager
Todd Engel
Todd Engel comes to Freeman Jet Center from the acquisition of Rocky Mountain Flower, formally Flower Aviation. Todd started his adventure in the FBO business when he was just eleven years old. His father took him to work with him after he had spent the day squabbling with his siblings. He was groomed to be a fueler by the line manager at Flower Aviation. Todd then went on to be the line manager and mentor for the fuelers to follow. While going to the now CSU-Pueblo studying business, his father decided to expand the company. He helped his father open Flower Aviation of Mount Vernon, Illinois as well as train the crew. Todd spent several years as the manager of their FBO in Fort Smith, Arkansas before moving to Salina, Kansas to run Flower Aviation of Salina.
In 1996, his father decided it was time to retire and asked Todd to move back to Pueblo and take over the ranks. His father didn’t quite retire at that time but they continued to work together and open up Hobbs Aviation in Hobbs, New Mexico and lastly, Flower Aviation of Garden City, Kansas.
In 2014, Flower Aviation of Pueblo was acquired by Rocky Mountain Aviation. Todd was hired by them to be the Operations Manager. His main position was to run the daily operations of the business. Each year the fuel sales increased substantially under his direction. Todd currently holds a private pilots license with a multi engine rating.
Todd realizes the importance of custom service and thrives to always put his customer first. Flower Aviation was ranked number one FBO by PRO PILOT magazine under his management. Todd is excited about this next step in his career with Freeman Jet Center.
He has been married to his wife Kristi for 25 years. They have three children, Trask, Brandon and Bailey.
KRIV General Manager
Sammy Desopo
Sammy Desopo joined Freeman Holdings in January 2022 as the General Manager of Million Air Riverside located at March Air Reserve Base, a joint use airport located in Riverside, CA. Million Air Riverside is the dedicated fuel provider to the March Inland Port Airport Authority, a commercial and general aviation civil airport authority.
Sammy comes to Million Air after more than 28 years in the United States Marine Corps as a KC-130 Flight Engineer with over 6,000 flight hours. He retired as a Master Gunnery Sergeant, holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Technical Management from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, and is also an FAA Airframe and Powerplant Mechanic. Sammy is excited to be working for Freeman Holdings in an industry that calls upon his prior military service and education.
KSGU General Manager
Amanda Zundel
Amanda Zundel, General Manager of Million Air St. George, joined the Freeman Holdings team upon the acquisition of Above View Jet Center in St. George, Utah. Originally from Stockton, California, she enlisted in the United States Navy in 2003 as an Aviation Electronics Technician (AT). While enlisted, she completed two deployments to the Persian Gulf area of operations with Strike Fighter Squadron 87 (VFA-87) on board the USS Theodore Roosevelt. After completing her enlistment, she earned a Bachelor of Science in Education at the University of Nevada, Reno, and was commissioned through Navy Officer Candidate School in 2015.
After her commissioning, Amanda completed flight training in Pensacola, Florida and earned her Naval Flight Officer (NFO) wings in 2016. While serving her first tour with Patrol Squadron 46 (VP-46), she completed two deployments to the Persian Gulf, Mediterranean, and Pacific areas of operation. In between deployments, Amanda was instrumental in VP-46’s transition from the P-3C Orion to the P-8 Poseidon aircraft. While attached to the squadron, she qualified as Tactical Coordinator (TACCO), Instructor TACCO, and Mission Commander. Amanda completed her Naval service assigned to Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing 10 (CPRW-10) as the Future Operations Officer where she successfully planned and coordinated all flight operations executed by eight subordinate squadrons.
KVCV General Manager
Gil Thomas
Gil Thomas is the General Manager of Million Air Victorville at the Southern California Logistics Airport (KVCV). Million Air Victorville is located approximately an hour and a half northeast of Los Angeles and three hours southwest of Las Vegas. Victorville is strategically located on the I-15 interstate and is ideal for those wishing to avoid congestion and desiring quick-turn service.
Gil comes to Million Air after serving 26 years in the United States Air Force as an Aircraft Maintenance Superintendent. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Organizational Management and has attended numerous Air Force and Joint leadership courses and academies.
Throughout his military career, he held positions in all facets of aircraft maintenance to include flying crew chief, transient alert, flight test and evaluation, training, safety, quality assurance, and production, supporting C-130E/H, C-12C/D, HC-130P/J, C-17A, C-5M aircraft. Gil also served as an airborne mission technician with the Defense Intelligence Agency, providing C-12 program management and standardization for United States embassies worldwide.
After retirement, Gil remained connected to his passion for aviation and the remarkable people who keep aircraft in the air. Prior to his promotion to General Manager at Million Air Victorville, he was the Line Service Manager at Million Air Honolulu.
PHJR General Manager
Ronny German
Ronny German is the General Manager of Million Air’s newest FBO in Honolulu Hawaii. Million Air Honolulu is located on the island of Oahu in Kapolei at John Rogers Air Field (PHJR) otherwise known as Kalaeloa. Situated approximately 30 minutes west of Honolulu International Airport (HNL), Million Air Honolulu is the ideal arrival destination to avoid the busy and crowded downtown area and is located just minutes from exquisite resorts and beautiful Hawaiian beaches.
Originally from Brooklyn, N.Y. Ronny earned a Batchelor’s of Science Degree from Southern Illinois University in Workforce Education and Development and has attended numerous leadership courses and academies.
Ronny recently joined Million Air after serving 28 years in the United States Coast Guard. He served in a number of diverse operational aviation and leadership assignments as a Helicopter Rescue Swimmer (RS #416) and Command Senior Enlisted Leader, most recently as Command Master Chief of Coast Guard Air Station Barbers Point.
Ronny also serves as a volunteer in the local community mentoring at-risk children by teaching them life skills while learning how to surf.
West Regional Vice President
KABI General Manager
KLBB General Manager
KNYL General Manager
KMFR General Manager
KMWH General Manager
KPUB General Manager
KRIV General Manager
KSGU General Manager
KVCV General Manager
PHJR General Manager
Along with years of military experience, we pride ourselves on employing a management team with years of experience in the aviation industry and customer service training. Our locations go the extra mile to provide the Ultimate VIP Experience to passengers and flight crew; insuring that our customers experience luxury from arrival to departure.
ACI Jet
President and CEO
William “Bill” Borgsmiller
CFO
Nathan Ross
VP, FBOs & Facilities
Andrew Robillard
President and CEO
William “Bill” Borgsmiller
William Borgsmiller has been at the helm of ACI Jet since its origin as Aviation Consultants, Inc. in 1998. The depth of Mr. Borgsmiller’s aviation experience is reflected in his many licenses and certifications, including Airline Transport Pilot (ATP), Certified Flight Instructor (CFI), CFI Instrument (CFII), Multi-Engine Instructor (MEI), and Airframe & Powerplant Mechanic (A&P). He is also a Certified Aviation Manager (CAM) through the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) and completed Harvard Business School’s General Management Program in September, 2016.
CFO
Nathan Ross
Mr. Ross is a licensed CPA, oversees all financial and accounting aspects of ACI Jet, and ensures regulatory compliance and conformity with applicable accounting principles. He has over 20 years of aviation-dedicated accounting and financial planning experience, and is an FAA-licensed Private Pilot.
VP, FBOs & Facilities
Andrew Robillard
Mr. Robillard began his aviation career in 2002 as a Line Service Technician working in Sacramento, California. In 2005, Mr. Robillard joined ACI Jet as a Line Service Technician. Over the past twenty years he has been a model of employee development at ACI Jet and now serves as the Vice President of ACI Jet’s FBO locations. His oversight of the FBO division includes strategic planning, identifying growth opportunities, property and construction management, and full financial accountability of the FBO business unit. Mr. Robillard also holds a Private Pilot’s License, with an Instrument Rating and is an FAA licensed Airframe & Powerplant Mechanic. He has managed $25 million dollars of airport property development including design and construction oversight of both a $3.3 million dollar hangar and office refurbishment and the construction of ACI Jet’s $18.3 million headquarters.
East Regional Vice President
KAEX & KESF General Manager
KARA General Manager
KCWF General Manager
KFOE General Manager
KHSA General Manager
KLCH General Manager
KRME General Manager
KSFB General Manager
KSYR General Manager