Community, Sheppard leaders meet to aid partnership Published Aug. 5, 2010 By Heather Newsom 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Brig. Gen. Darryl Burke, 82nd Training Wing commander, and Command Chief Chief Master Sgt. David Nelson visited surrounding communities Aug. 5 to gain firsthand knowledge of the strong partnerships between Burkburnett, Iowa Park and Wichita Falls. The purpose of the city tour was to help build a rapport by personally introducing community leaders to Sheppard's senior leaders and allow them to see the inner workings of how the cities operate. During the tours, community leaders were able to communicate key interests; the roles of schools and social and civic organizations; and discuss who lives and works in the different communities. Both the Burkburnett and Iowa Park visits consisted of a formal meeting to discuss the successes and challenges faced by the cities followed by a windshield tour given by the Mayor and City Manager. Items discussed during the tour included community development, economic impact, leisure activities, and schools. Wichita Falls brought community leaders and decision makers together to discuss how to make positive changes in the community. Directors from all departments, as well as city management, were all present as they introduced their roles and links between their current positions and the base. The next meeting between base commanders and tri-city leaders will take place Aug. 10 as Wichita Falls hosts the quarterly Area Community Relations Council Meeting.