A holiday message from the commander Published Dec. 15, 2011 By Brig. Gen. Darryl Burke Sheppard Air Force Base SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- As we head into the holiday season, I want to thank all of you for the incredibly successful year we've had here at Sheppard, even in the face of some serious challenges. We all know about the fiscal realities on the horizon, and both our military and civilian workforces have had to cope with reductions, reorganizations and other changes. It has been tough-but you have all pressed on and continued to get the mission done with dedication and professionalism. Challenges or not, Sheppard has had some huge successes this year. In the spring, we hosted the AETC Commander's Conference, and the command's senior leaders left Sheppard amazed by the hospitality and support they received--not to mention the training we provide, which they got to experience firsthand. On the 82nd side, we did the unprecedented in the Second Air Force Stan-Eval Inspection: Every unit inspected was rated "Excellent." That is an astounding feat. The 80th and the Euro-NATO Joint Jet Pilot Training Program marked its 30th Anniversary as the world's premier pilot training program, and progress is on schedule for its new Operations Complex. Working together, the two wings delivered an outstanding Open House and Air Show. More than 40,000 people came to the base over two days, and the entire event was executed flawlessly. In terms of infrastructure, we've begun tearing down some of our older dormitories and have received more than $10 million to renovate others. Renovations to the Base Exchange, South Shoppette and Main Gate are all progressing well. We expect to be able to improve more facilities using renovation funding attached to some of our demolition projects. Most importantly, Sheppard's two wings produced about 80,000 pilot and technical training graduates in fiscal 2011, delivering continued combat capability for the Air Force, our sister services and our international partners. That's just a small sample of what you've accomplished this year. The quality of work Team Sheppard puts forth is second to none. Thank you for your unwavering dedication to our mission. This is the season for celebration and spending time with family and friends, and I hope you take full advantage. At the same time, please be safe. Wear seatbelts, don't drive drunk or drowsy, have a plan and make sure to look out for each other - be a good wingman, and be strong enough to ask for help if you need it. Again, congratulations on another great year and thank you for what you do every day. Use this well-deserved break to recharge because 2012 promises to be another full year of opportunities and challenges. May each and every one of you have a relaxing and safe holiday and a wonderful new year. My Best, Sheriff