GROWING THE FLOWERS FAMILY BUSINESS: LONGEST-SERVING AIRMAN PROMOTES SON TO BRIGADIER GENERAL October 2021
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CORONA AIR VENTURES By Shireen Bedi
Air Force Surgeon General Public Affairs U.S. Air Force promotions are significant moments in every Airman’s career, but for Brig. Gen. Alfred K. Flowers, Jr., Air Force Medical Service Manpower, Personnel and Resources director, his promotion also means continuing in the Flowers family business. On Sept. 7, Flowers, Jr. was pinned with his current rank by retired Maj. Gen. Alfred K. Flowers, Sr., who is the longestserving Airman in U.S. Air Force history. “Having my father pin on my rank here at the Air Force Memorial means a lot because last time we were here, we were taking photos when my father retired,” Flowers, Jr. said. “This is where he ended his career in 2012 and here is where I am taking on a new role.” Flowers, Sr. has been to every single one of his son’s promotions. And while it is often the case that Airmen are inspired to serve by close family members, few can say they can call upon a general officer for advice at any time. Especially one who had served for more than 46 years, started his Air Force career as an enlisted
(Courtesy U.S. Air Force) supply warehouseman at Grand Forks Air Force Base in North Dakota, and retired as the deputy assistant secretary for budget in the Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Financial Management and Comptroller. “Every assignment or challenge I have faced, I would think, ‘What would dad say or what would he do in this situation?’” Flowers, Jr. said. “His guidance has been my ‘True North’ compass in many of the decisions I have made, and he still remains my confidant when I am faced with a tough decision. I am just blessed to have him as that resource. Sometimes I feel I am at an unfair advantage to have someone like my father with his legacy to call when I need advice.” Flowers, Sr. has seen the Air Force change significantly since he enlisted as a 17-year-old in 1965. “I have seen the Air Force grow tremendously,” Flowers, Sr. said. “I started off as an airman basic, making $97 a month. Now, Airmen make as much as lieutenants did when I started. The capabilities I see in the Air Force today is amazing. It is as if we started with a cart and buggy when comparContinued on Page 20
Reid-Hillview Airport Continued from Page 16 After this interview, Gyger added that the EAA Young Eagles program is very active at Reid-Hillview. At last year’s Airport Day, several hundred neighborhood students signed up to take a Young Eagles Flight. This year’s Airport Day was on Aug. 28, 2021. Close to a thousand people attended, many of them youth. A local band played while food trucks spread across the airfield. While the Santa Clara County Board of
Supervisors cites Reid-Hillview as a threat to racial equality, it should be noted that many of the attendees were people of color. Do your part to help save ReidHillview and the many services it provides to the public and local flying community. For more information, visit savereidhillview.org where you can volunteer, donate, or take action to deliver your message to the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors.
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