82nd SFS converts to 8 hour shifts Published July 10, 2008 82nd Security Forces Squadron SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Starting July 15 the 82nd Security Forces Squadron is converting to an eight hour work day for the first time since Sept. 11. The eight hour shifts allows personnel to balance their work and family lives, and provides the opportunity to participate in family, squadron and base activities. Increasing the time spent with their families means higher morale and better retention in a career field that struggles with numbers. "This is a huge transition for the 82nd SFS and their families," said Captain Kenneth Poindexter of the 82nd SFS said, "As customers you will see a better prepared, more ready organization of professionals than ever before." The Air Force has driven augmentee programs, civilian contract guards and Department of Defense guard initiatives in an attempt to arm Security Forces with enough manpower to sustain home station and deployed missions. The events of Sept. 11 immediately changed the way military installations were secured and increased the manpower requirements to protect our national interests. Security Forces Air Force-wide relied on installation augmentee programs, more intense 12 hour shifts, and temporarily the Army National Guard, to provide the level of security required.