Flowers: Sheppard is a great wing, moving forward Published June 26, 2009 By John Ingle 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- "Sheppard is a great wing and is setting the standard for all our wings." Those were the words of Maj. Gen. Alfred Flowers, 2nd Air Force commander, June 25 following his two-day stay. The general said the base continues to accomplish remarkable ventures in training and taking care of people. The general said it doesn't just happen on its own; he said top-to-bottom leadership is making a difference. "I don't worry about Sheppard Air Force Base. It is in good hands here," he said. From leading the way to rejuvenating the Air Force's nuclear enterprise at Sheppard's schoolhouse in less than a year to providing renovated places for Airmen to call home, the general said leadership at all levels here gets it. Taking care of people is something that is very important to him, the general said. "I'm passionate about taking care of people," General Flowers said. "We aren't who we are or where we are because of us. It's because of other people who helped us reach our full potential." He said too often people get fixated on the mission and forget about those who are working to get it done. But, he said Sheppard leadership understands the importance of balancing mission and morale. General Flowers said another remarkable accomplishment Sheppard can hang their hat on is the deliberate work to maintain an almost unheard of relationship with the surrounding community. "How neat is it and impressive is it that a community would embrace a wing," the general said, citing civic leadership participation in Wednesday night's Deployer Appreciation Dinner. "We are very thankful for all the support they provide. The general's days as 2nd Air Force Commander are dwindling down as he prepares to go to the Pentagon as the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Budget. He said he doesn't look forward to giving up command, but he said he is confident he can continue to make a difference for all Airmen. In tough economic times, he said it's going to be challenging but we will do our best, support the president's budget, and work hard at resourcing and balancing shortfalls.